Anna shares her story of the unexpected arrival of Charlie at 30 weeks.
Anna, thanks for sharing your story with us.
Did you have any idea that you might have an early baby?
No, I was fit and healthy! It was only at my 30 week check up the midwife said my blood pressure was slightly high and the baby hadn’t grown much. The next day pre eclampsia showed up in a test and I was admitted to hospital. During the night I had an eclamptic fit and Charlie was delivered by emergency c section to save us both.
Tell us what happened?
Charlie was born weighing just 2lbs 6oz. He was rushed to intensive care at the Special care baby unit (SCBU) at the RVI. I followed the next day. At just 8 days old Charlie developed NEC (necrotising Enterocolitis) it’s a deadly disease that effects the gut. He had emergency surgery which saved his little life. We were in hospital for about 5 months. We stayed at Crawford house provided to us by the sick children’s trust. So we could be near Charlie. Charlie had more life saving surgery at 3 months old . He was still less then 5lbs. He was discharged at 2 years old.
It sounds like a rollercoaster of emotions?
It was, the excitement of having your new baby who you adore. The shock, hope, anger, guilt, love, fear and worry of what is actually happening. The worst part for me was leaving him at nighttime. I had to set an alarm for expressing milk every 4 hours during the night. I’d sit there sobbing wondering if my baby was awake and looking for me. Only being able to hold him maybe once or twice a day. Whilst staying close to the machines and been careful of all of the tubes and wires.
What were the things that you weren't prepared for?
All of it! But I think adrenaline kicks in and also parental instinct. There was not one point where I thought we might not bring him home. Although looking back we were very lucky that he made it.
Did you receive much help and support?
Yes, Tiny Lives and everyone in SCBU were just amazing we will be forever grateful to them. They didn’t just look after Charlie they looked after us too. Staying at Crawford house provided by the sick children’s trust meant we could be closer to Charlie at night
What was going home like?
We were so desperate to take Charlie home but it is also scary leaving the safety of the hospital. I remember the first time Charlie came off the monitors and I was so worried! Asking the nurses but how do we know he’s okay?!
Have you any advice for anyone else who finds themselves in a similar situation?
My advice would be to get support from others who have been there. There are some great facebook support groups. People who understand. Don’t feel alone. Take care of yourself. We started taking a flask of soup to the park while Charlie slept. It’s important to eat well and get fresh air, get away from the harsh lights of the Hospital for a break.
How he is doing now?
He is a happy, healthy six year old now, and an amazing big brother.
Anna thank you so much for sharing your story, and revisiting all that emotion, I am sure that many other Mums will appreciate your honesty and admire your courage to tell them.
Tina
