"My care in the Foetal Assessment Unit"

Before and after my birth I came into contact with the amazing Carmel Maguire and what an angel of a woman she is. 

I had my first scan in the SWAH fairly late in my pregnancy as I had just moved home from another country. During the scan I received some unexpected news and became very upset (shock, lack of sleep and hormones are not a good combo!). Luckily for my husband and I, Carmel was there to comfort us. She must have spent a hour with us that day in total between our original appointment and then during further tests that needed to be carried out. She was so kind and caring, and genuinely helped to put our minds at ease. I honestly don’t know what I’d have done without her there. I must give a mention to Dr Thompson who also very kindly and gently reassured us and explained everything very clearly and thoroughly. 

Both of these lovely ladies came to check on baby and I after he was born which I thought was so so lovely. It made me feel like I wasn’t just another patient passing through their doors, that they genuinely do care for each and every lady that they have coming to see them. And what a wonderful trait to have - exactly what you want to see in their line of work. 

Due to complications I found myself back in the FAU post birth and was lucky enough to be in Carmel’s care again. Just like before she looked after us like we were her own and had lovely big chats for the baby. 

Since having these positive experiences I have spoke to many friends and family members, and many of them remembered Carmel from having their own babies in the SWAH and also commented on how amazing she had been during their time there. So that just goes to show how much of an impression she has made on the mothers across Fermanagh. 

Another name that proved to be popular was that of the fantastic Geraldine, the midwife who spent her entire 12 hour shift ensuring that I was looked after every second of the day. She made the day fly in with her great personality and I felt at ease knowing that I was under the care of such an experienced and impressive midwife. The fact that I have spoken to family members who remember how amazing Geraldine was from when she delivered their teenagers says it all. 

Overall, a very impressive, professional and caring team across the maternity within the SWAH. These three ladies deserved a special mention and are an absolute credit to their departments and the Trust.