Beloved AFL presenter Abbey Holmes set for shock return weeks after giving birth
Holmes will be back in action for the Round 20 clash between Essendon and Western Bulldogs on July 25, just seven weeks after giving birth to Braxton John Brooksby, on June 11.
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It is an incredibly quick turnaround considering the pregnancy did not go to plan either, with the 34-year-old requiring a C-section procedure.
The new mum, however, won't be jumping back into full-time work straight away, instead planning to work two days a week while managing her maternal duties.
'I feel incredibly lucky to step back into a job I love, while also soaking up the joy of being a mum,' Holmes said in a statement to Channel 7 on Thursday.
'It's the perfect balance, and I'm so grateful for the support from both my family and my work family to get me back doing what I love.
'Coming back to work fills me with so much excitement.
'I've missed the team, the buzz, and being part of the action. I'm ready to hit the ground running next Friday night at Marvel Stadium and can't wait for little Brax to see his mumma in action.
'It's been such a special time at home with Braxton and Keegan and I feel so lucky to be able to go back to a job that I love and come home to our family.
'I've been watching so much footy and now I'm rapt to be back in the thick of it,' Holmes said about her pending return to commentary.
'I'm so thankful to the amazing team at Seven who made it easy for me to take the time I needed, and who've welcomed me back with open arms.
'It's the best feeling to know I can have both – a career I love and precious time with my family.
'Being a mum has changed me in the most incredible ways, but one thing that hasn't changed is my passion for my career and the game. I couldn't be more ready to be back.'
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