"This would not have been possible without the support and amazing care I received at Tameside Hospital"

The first 20weeks of my second pregnancy were trouble-free. On my anomaly scan my baby was found to have fluid around her heart. I was offered a specialist scan to be done by a consultant and this continued every three or so weeks. Then at 26 weeks I found out I have gestational diabetes.

This was not a surprise as there is a strong family history but the management of this was very difficult. I found it very hard and knowing that it could have detrimental effects on my baby meant I was constantly on edge and was trying to control my sugars very tightly. I felt I was constantly chasing numbers, but the whole of the team were absolutely fantastic.

My consultant (Dr Purnima Gondane) and diabetes specialist nurse (Erica Thomasson) were absolutely amazing and gave me the encouragement when I needed it. Dr Gondane treated me as her equal, it felt like this, and I was very much involved in all the decision making during my pregnancy. Erica and her team were a godsend and were always there to calm me down and answer even the most silly questions. The whole team is an asset to the Trust.

I also had issues with scans in the pregnancy and Dr Gondane spoke to me in the most calm, professional and clear manner. It helped me immensely to have the confidence in her and to know we were both in good hands. The day of my elective c-section wasn't without problems either but Dr Gondane did the most amazing job and kept me informed throughout the procedure.

I now have the most beautiful healthy little girl and a little sister for my son. This would not have been possible without the support and amazing care I received at Tameside Hospital.