Erin Bates Says Christmas Feels Different After Near-Fatal Childbirth

Erin Bates she’s not afraid to admit that the year 2025 changed her – and the holiday season – after she nearly died in childbirth.

“After a year that scared us deeply, this Christmas feels different – overflowing with gratitude for Jesus coming to earth to be born in a manger,” Bates, 34, wrote on Instagram on Friday, December 26, alongside a video of her family gathered around her as she played the piano with her baby cradled to her chest.

“You are the greatest gift of all!” continuing the topic. “Merry Christmas from the Paine family.”

The reality star nearly died in September when she and her husband suffered severe complications during childbirth Chad PaineThe seventh child, a son named Henry.

“We wanted to thank each and every one of you for all the prayers and support you’ve given us for us. It’s been a week since our miracle, Henry, came into the world. He’s doing great in the NICU and is our bundle of joy,” Paine, 38, wrote on Instagram at the time. “We have been asking for prayers for Erin to recover from the complications.”

He continued, “Her labor was longer and more intense than previous births. She has been fighting it and has been a simple and sweet testimony of kindness to the nurses, staff and doctors alike. We are all touched by her kindness and gratitude during the pain. Erin had a severe UTI and a kidney infection, which left her in shock. She is currently going to the doctor and continues to be treated in the ICU. Because this beautiful girl is a light in a dark world. We hold on to the promises of God.”

Bates’ parents later revealed that his diagnosis changed “several times” at the hospital before he was able to return home safely.

“Without an accurate diagnosis and his ever-changing condition, it was difficult to share with others [updates],” Kelly Jo again Gil Bates explained via Instagram Story. “We had a tearful night, a late night, a happy night and a lot of emotions.”
When she returned home, Erin continued to document her healing journey, which took weeks.

“I don’t even have words. My leg hasn’t worked for weeks (since I passed out in the hospital). I’ve been carried, wheeled, and lifted up with tears and prayers… and today – it moved,” Erin wrote via Instagram on October 2. “Today I took steps. They may be moving a little, but they’re steps I wasn’t sure I’d ever laughed until I cried again. My heart is overflowing with gratitude. Jesus, You’re faithful. Healer. All the glory is yours.”

He continued, “To those who have prayed and encouraged us, thank you. You have been a part of this miracle. To the doctors, nurses, and therapists who have poured so much into my recovery – we are forever grateful. Today we stand (literally!) in awe, thankful for every step forward.”