"Thank you to everyone on Labour and Lilac Ward!"

We wanted to say thank you to all the wonderful people that were involved in the safe delivery of our son born on Weds 27th July 2016 by elective caesarean.

When we arrived on the Labour Ward I couldn't have asked for two kinder midwives to be taking care of us throughout. They were cheerful, smiling and even excited for us. This helped me stay calm. We were asked about whether we would like to see our son being born - not something we had considered but was so glad we did. Photographs were taken which we will treasure forever. We were given the chance to ask any questions and were made to feel at ease.

I would also like to add, that when my husband and I came to our consultant appointment with the obstetrician regarding the birth of our second baby (following previous emergency Caesarean section), I felt that we were given all the information but I was left to make my own choice which was lovely as I didn't feel swayed or encouraged to try for a VBAC. I booked my elective caesarean on that day which helped me prepare myself mentally for the birth. It turned out that my baby was breach so it was unlikely that I would have been able to have him naturally anyway.

In theatre everyone was wonderful. The team worked together brilliantly and although such serious work was taking place, the positive and friendly approach of everyone helped me to relax. The midwives were supportive, comforting and reassuring theoughoiut. There was a member of staff who was working alongside the anaesthetist who explained how the spinal block works by numbing pain but not touch. Although this was my second c-section having not laboured beforehand this time, I was a lot more aware of what was going on and their kind words and explanation helped to reassure me that what I was feeling was normal.

Thank you to everyone who helped us before, during and after his birth, not forgetting the people we met on MDAU who we met during pregnancy. The level of care we received was exceptional. The work you all do is amazing and we will be forever thankful to you all for safely delivering our baby boy. We could not thank all of these wonderful people enough. I would recommend this hospital without hesitation.