An Orange County couple welcomed their daughter in the parking lot of a Jack in the Box restaurant after the mother was discharged twice from a hospital despite experiencing painful contractions. The newborn, Valentina Isla Campbell, arrived last Friday, 15 days ahead of her scheduled due date.

Michelle Cisneros, the mother, initially noticed her contractions intensifying while preparing for a doctor’s appointment. Instead of attending the appointment, the couple drove to Hoag Hospital in Newport Beach for evaluation. After being monitored, Cisneros was discharged.

Shortly after leaving the hospital, the couple realized they were unlikely to reach medical care in time. They pulled into the parking lot of a nearby Jack in the Box and called 911. Firefighters responded promptly and assisted Cisneros in delivering the baby safely on site.

“The moment I heard her first cry, I felt relief, like she is OK,” Cisneros said following the birth.

The newborn and mother were subsequently transported to a medical facility for further care. Both were reported to be in good condition. The incident highlighted concerns regarding hospital discharge decisions for patients presenting with labor symptoms, particularly in cases where premature delivery is possible.