"Care and compassion were world-class"

I have recently given birth to my first child - a baby boy - and I feel I need to make known how wonderful the entire team has been. The level of kindness, professionalism, and compassion shown by the maternity team in Tayside was nothing short of extraordinary, and I truly feel lucky to have been in such capable and caring hands.

From the very beginning, the staff in the maternity triage department were incredibly patient with me, especially when I felt anxious or worried. They created a reassuring environment where I felt genuinely listened to, and I never once felt like I was a burden, even during the most challenging moments. It was clear that they cared deeply about both my wellbeing and the health of my baby, and that made all the difference in helping me feel at ease.

A huge thank you to Nicola, my wonderful community midwife. From our first meeting to the last, she kept me well-informed, answered my many questions, and guided me through my care with a calm, reassuring presence. I always felt supported and cared for, and that was incredibly comforting during such a stressful time.

I’d also like to extend my heartfelt thanks to all the staff on the postnatal ward and the breastfeeding team. They were so kind, patient, and helpful during those first days with my newborn. Their encouragement and gentle guidance meant the world to me, and I never felt rushed or ignored.

A very special HUGE thank you goes to Sophie in Labour Suite. Your patience, professionalism, and dedication to my care during labour were beyond anything I could have hoped for. When things took a sudden turn and we had to go for an emergency c-section due to my son’s heart rate dropping, met partner and I were terrified. But thanks to your calm, reassuring manner and the swift action of the entire team, I felt safe and supported every step of the way. I can’t express how grateful I am to you and the entire team who intervened. The way everyone worked together so efficiently and calmly was truly amazing, and it’s thanks to you all that my son came into the world safely. My partner and I will forever be in awe of how everyone handled the situation, and without the incredible support of the team, we would have likely been far more traumatised by the experience.

I’d also like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the anaesthetists who cared for me when I had to return for a blood patch. Once again, their professionalism, kindness, and compassion reflected the same high standard of care I received throughout my entire journey.

In short, I cannot thank the entire maternity team enough for the exceptional care my son and I received. The maternity services in Tayside are a true testament to what healthcare should look like. The care and compassion displayed by everyone involved was world-class, and I will forever be grateful for the positive impact they had on our experience. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. You are all amazing.