"They were the light I needed during the darkest of days"

I was readmitted to the RAH on Saturday, 5 days after giving birth to my first child, Ruaridh. I was an emotional wreck and struggling mentally with the thought of being alone, away from my husband who had provided so much support in those early days. My baby was suffering from jaundice and required light therapy. 

I was met by Christine who provided my initial assessment. She understood why I was so upset and worried and helped ease my fears. As I had had feeding issues, she enlisted the help of Catriona, the breast feeding guru who helped me understand where things hadn't quite been going right. All the time, boosting my confidence and reassuring me that everything would be ok. 

When I was taken upstairs to ward 31B, Nicolle, who was like my little guardian angel, was tasked with the very difficult task of helping me settle in. She took time to show me around the ward, ensuring I felt happy and welcome. Whenever I buzzed for her help, nothing was a problem. Each time I was met with an amazing smile and a willingness to do anything. Alongside Nicolle, Debi and Susan helped make my first night on the ward as good as it could be. They were so supportive, empathetic and caring towards a very sleep deprived, emotional and anxious new mum and I will  be forever indebted to them for that. 

After my very tough initial fist night, I received further excellent care from Kate, Emma and Lori. Each one took time to calm me when I cried, listen to me as I spoke of my fears and help be that emotional support I so badly missed by being separated from my husband. In particular, Kate really helped me talk through some of my worries and made me feel like I could become the happy mum I knew I needed to be.

At a time when hospital staff are so busy, I feel so very lucky to have been given such incredible care by the staff in 31B. They made a very scary time for me that little less scary and the power of that should never be overlooked. They provided the light I needed during the darkest of days and the staff all deserve huge credit for what they do day in day out.