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"My Journey Through Pregnancy and My Tiny Baby"

About: Maternity Care / Labour Ward Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) / Transitional Care University Hospital Wishaw / Maternity Care University Hospital Wishaw / Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU)

(as a service user),

I was diagnosed with gestational diabetes during my pregnancy. I just want to express my deepest gratitude to the entire team at Wishaw Hospital. Saying thank you feels like such a small word compared to everything you did for me.

In my third trimester, I was diagnosed with gestational diabetes, and soon after, I faced multiple complications—my baby's growth was not progressing well, I had issues with my food cord, and my iron levels were dangerously low. It was an incredibly difficult time, but the team at Wishaw Hospital managed everything so beautifully that I cannot find the words to express my appreciation.

One of the scariest moments was when my baby’s heartbeat dropped suddenly. Within seconds, the doctors and nurses arranged everything—monitoring, medical interventions, and even a blood transfusion for me because of my low haemoglobin. Every decision they made was swift, precise, and life-saving. I had so many complications, but the way they handled everything with care and expertise was truly incredible.

What made this journey even harder was that my family was in another country, and I felt alone. But in those moments, the hospital staff became my family. From the anaesthetist who reassured me as I shivered in the operating room, to the midwives who checked on me constantly, every person was a blessing. One particular moment stays with me—after my surgery, the anaesthetist even came back to check on me. I regret forgetting his name, but his kindness meant so much.

After my baby was born, he had health issues and was immediately moved to the neonatal ward, while I was in another ward. That first night was one of the hardest of my life—I couldn't sleep, knowing my baby was not with me. But the nurses were so kind. One of them placed me in a wheelchair and took me to see my baby, ensuring I wasn’t alone in my fear.

The next morning, I received the best news—the nurses told me my baby was improving and that I would be moved to the transition care unit so I could stay with him. Those five days were incredibly difficult, as my baby was still not well, but I was surrounded by angels in the form of hospital staff.

Stephanie was my superhero. I had just undergone a C-section, and I was in a lot of pain, but she did everything to make things easier for me. She took care of my baby when I couldn’t, giving me the chance to rest. My baby was so tiny, but she held him with such love and care, making sure I had peace of mind.

Stephanie was not just kind and professional; she was a guiding light. She gave my baby his first bath and gave me the confidence to care for him. As a new mother, I was nervous, but she reassured me, teaching me that I was capable and strong.

One of the most emotional moments for me was when I was finally able to breastfeed my baby for the first time. I was struggling, but Stephanie was more excited than I was! She encouraged me, supported me, and gave me the confidence to keep trying. When I finally managed to feed my baby, she celebrated with me, sharing in my happiness as if it were her own. That moment meant the world to me.

Lisa was another blessing. I wanted to breastfeed my baby, but my milk wasn’t coming in. Lisa and Stephanie supported me through this, teaching me different techniques and helping me every step of the way. Lisa even found a beautiful poem to inspire me and encourage my milk production—just for my baby’s health.

She was incredibly kind and supportive, checking on me countless times, giving me medication, and making sure I was as comfortable as possible. Without these two incredible women, I don’t know how I would have managed. They treated me and my baby as if we were their own family.

On my last night at the hospital, I was under the care of another midwife, Nicola. Even though it was a busy day, she managed everything beautifully. I was surprised by how effortlessly she handled all the responsibilities, always staying calm and supportive.

One of the most incredible things about this team is that they never forget anything—not a single detail. Sometimes, in my exhaustion, I would forget my medication or even small tasks, but they never did. Even when I felt hesitant to ask for help—knowing how busy they were—they could read it on my face. They would come over and say you look tired, go to sleep. We will take care of your baby.

The way midwives pass care from one shift to the next is truly remarkable. Each day, a different midwife would take over my care, yet every single one of them knew my case so well. They treated me with the same love and dedication as the previous one. I was in awe of their energy—even after long shifts, I never saw a tired face. They were always fresh, always ready to help mothers and babies with love and care.

Stephanie, Lisa, Nicola, and the entire team—you are real-life heroes. You go beyond your duty, and for that, I will always be grateful.

From the bottom of my heart, thank you. ❤️

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Responses

Response from Cheryl Clark, Director of Midwifery, Women's Services, NHS Lanarkshire 4 months ago
Cheryl Clark
Director of Midwifery, Women's Services,
NHS Lanarkshire
Submitted on 16/02/2025 at 18:31
Published on Care Opinion at 18:31


Dear pilingsdm95,

For the first time in a very very long time, I am struggling to find words to respond to your beautiful comments. Your story has left me feeling very proud to be part of this team. We are constantly receiving very positive feedback, your is really special for me as I can feel the difference all the staff have made to you through you pregnancy, birth and in the postnatal period with your beautiful baby. Your description of the care you have received is what the team do every day and im so delighted you have taken time to articulate the impact this has had on you. Ive read your story 3 times now and know I will read it again. What a the worry for you to be on your own with a complex pregnancy knowing your family were in another country. But what you have described is the care we strive to deliver every day, medical and midwifery care that is designed for your needs, to help, support, nurture and provide TLC when you need it as well as all the midwifery and medical care you require.

Your Pregnancy journey is powerful and inspiring in so many ways and I hope you look back with pride and confidence of what you achieved during all the good and difficult days,

I cant thank you enough for sharing this moving feedback. I will share with all staff.

Look after yourself and please don't be a stranger. Im sure the staff in TCU would love to see you both again. You are now part of the Wishaw Family ❤

With warmest wishes

Cheryl

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