"Above and beyond "

I honestly can’t put into words just how incredible the maternity team at Preston Hospital have been. The care and compassion they showed me throughout both of my pregnancies is something I will cherish for the rest of my life. The people who helped deliver both of my daughters truly hold a special place in our hearts.

My pregnancies were far from straightforward due to ongoing health conditions, yet the team supported and managed my care with the highest level of professionalism, empathy, and dedication. During my first pregnancy, they detected a serious condition in my daughter and acted quickly, undoubtedly making a huge difference to her outcome. Unfortunately, due to the complexity of my health and her early arrival, we were separated at birth—she was transferred to neonatal care and then Alder Hey, while I was admitted to HDU. Despite this being out of anyone’s control, the team never forgot the emotional impact that separation had on me as a first-time mother.

What meant the world to me was how much they truly listened, especially my obstetrician who provided the highest level of care in all obstetrics appointments and then delivered safely both my babies in elective c-sections. She genuinely cared about my experience and, during my second pregnancy, did absolutely everything possible to keep me and my baby together after delivery. Every appointment felt personaI I never felt like “just another patient.” I felt safe, seen, and completely confident in their care.

The day of my planned c-section was something I will never forget. Every single member of staff was outstanding. A very special thank you to my specialist midwife, who stayed with me long after her shift ended from 7:30am until nearly 9pm. Her presence was like having my own mum there: calming, comforting, and completely reassuring. I also had to be under GA for both pregnancies so they ensured there was a medical photographer to capture the moment for me so I could feel like I had been there when I wake up - how amazing is that? It just fills my heart completely that I’m now able to have those fond memories forever, even though I wasn’t awake for it.

My daughter only needed one night in NICU before we were reunited, and I got my wish of having her with me on the delivery ward. The delivery team even popped in to check on us—it was such a touching moment that made me feel so cared for.

Even a year on, they continue to show how special they are. As we recently celebrated my daughter’s first birthday, the team remembered too sending her a card and messages that truly moved me. Knowing they remember my birth story as fondly as I do is just incredible.

It honestly saddens me to think I won’t be having any more children to experience that level of care again. But I will never stop sharing how positive, personal, and beautiful my experience with Preston’s maternity team has been. They went above and beyond—and then some.