"Birth / Labour experience"

I have birth this week in Daisy Hill Hospital and would like to thank the staff for their care throughout my stay. I had a very anxious pregnancy, with a few concerns here and there, and was undoubtedly anxious when admitted for induction. After a failed induction and then caesarean section, I have to give credit to the staff for the care they provided, which gave me, my baby and husband the best possible birth experience we could have dreamt of in the current circumstances.

I would like to particularly mention a few people for their care, compassion, professionalism and support to me as a patient, and anxious first time mum.

Firstly, Mr Sim for his care throughout my pregnancy and for reviewing me whilst in hospital. He never left a stone unturned or left me feeling concerned at each appointment. Mr Wheeler for the care I was given, and the calmness and reassurance given in theatre.

Aine, midwife in theatre and recovery- her care was exceptional. She understood my nerves, and calmed me throughout, even popping up to the ward later that day to check on me and see if I needed anything including support with breast feeding. She was so down to earth and understanding, and went above and beyond to support me through my day of labour. I am sure it would have been a very different experience without her!

Claire, midwife on the ward, who retired on my second night in hospital. Her care was second to none. Her years of experience shone through and the care and kindness she showed when I had a failed induction, when I was in pain, and to my baby was hugely appreciated. I wish her well in her retirement.

Chloe, healthcare assistant on the ward, who was run off her feet every night. She somehow gave every woman and their baby in the ward her undue attention. She never stopped and she still managed to support me and my baby who was screaming for hours, during a horrendously busy night, while doing so with a smile and kindness. Chloe is fantastic at her job and is an asset to her team.

The anaesthetist in theatre, who, I apologise, I do not recall her name, however, she was sensational. She gave me knowledge and understanding of what was going to happen before going into theatre, talked me through each step in theatre, gave reassurance throughout the procedure and explained everything at a level I could understand and absorb while highly anxious. I am sure my section experience may have been different without her.

Thank you to all the theatre staff for their undue care and attention to detail. It really ran like clockwork, and each person was so supportive and kind.

There too was a midwife on nights on my last night whose name I cannot recall, who gave me reassurance when my baby cried for 3 hours solid, and I was very emotional. She allowed me to feel this way and recognise that I am human and a first time mum who like all other mums will have challenging times with baby. She didn't once make me feel like I or my baby were a nuisance to the staff on an already horrendously busy shift.

Everyone from the medical team, to physiotherapy, catering, housekeeping and students were so attentive and gave me a very positive birth experience. I cannot thank them enough for all the care I received while in hospital.