"I had the most exceptional care from all staff involved"

I had my baby in November 2024 and had a wonderful experience throughout my pregnancy and birth journey. I was under the care of Dr Lavery, who along with all the staff in Antenatal Clinic looked after myself, my partner and my baby to the highest standard. 

We also seen and did parent craft classes with the community midwives at Shantallow Hub. The midwives were welcoming at each appointment and answered all mine and my partners questions and reassured us. Especially to Catherine and Karen. 

We were admitted into the Antenatal ward at for an induction as there was no moving our baby! The care we received was exceptional on the ward by all staff, especially Molly, Niamh, Helen, Clara and Kathleen. 

Due to the busy delivery suite we had to wait to get over to continue the induction process once suitable. This was a bit of a stop in the process but not at the fault of the staff but due to the busy theatre list and no one available to care for us in labour. 

When we were transferred over to labour ward we were cared for by Midwife Rachel, Sr Brenda and Midwife Lynn on the night shift. Rachel helped me create that relaxing environment in the labour room with low lighting, my tea light candles and letting me play my own music. Thank you Rachel for your calmness and kindness. 

The day shift midwife Janine took over care from Rachel and she was amazing and my voice of reason and advocate especially when making the logical decision of going to theatre. And especially keeping my partner calm during the stress of labour. 

Dr Ferghal was my saviour and gave me the best working epidural this side of the glenshane (Ferghal this is your shoutout that I promised if it worked straight away so thank you) 

Even though my little lady was born via emergency section it was so calm and relaxed and looked after so well by the theatre team, nurse Cathy.  the obstetric, paediatric and midwifery  team. Thank you to student midwife Brid for taking wondering pictures of my daughter’s birth. Memories both me and her daddy really appreciate. 

We had a two night stay on the postnatal ward and had the most exceptional care from all staff involved. Thank you to Sr Louise for checking in on me. Thank you to our wonderful nurses Maria and Rachael, you guys are angels and so prompt with the pain relief. Thank you to my postnatal midwives; Lora, Audrey and Eimear. 

For anyone I’ve missed but thank you all for being part of my journey and helping me and my partner start in our little family life with our little girl.