In December 2019, my wife Gabriella, became severely ill at 38 weeks pregnant.  She was suffering with Severe Pre-eclampsia and Hellp Syndrome.  Gabriella underwent an emergency C-section resulting in two major haemorrhages in the space of 24 hours and at one point given only a 30% chance of survival.  Thankfully after 3 days in intensive care and a few more on the maternity ward we went home as a family of three with our little girl Noa.

Fast forward 2.5 years and we welcomed our second child, Levi, into the world, and this time with no complications.  This would not have been possible without the support and guidance of APEC and their team of experts who gave us the confidence and reassurance that a second child was possible.

However, something else happened back in December 2019 and it wasn't until the second pregnancy and subsequent birth of Levi that it truly came to light.  

As a result of everything I experienced and witnessed in that week, I have been suffering from Birth Trauma PTSD. I was having flashbacks, questioning the reality of whether Gabriella survived, low mood where I couldn't get out of bed, damaging relationships, and constantly on edge.  Thankfully I have the support of my family and I was able to get the help I needed but not all partners do.  Up to 5% of Birth Partners develop trauma symptoms.

So I am running this Half Marathon for APEC but also for all those Dads affected by Birth Trauma PTSD and suffering in silence.

PTSD Symptoms:

Flashbacks/Reliving the Trauma - Feeling on Edge - Avoiding memories - Overwhelming negative feelings.

Pre-Eclampsia Symptoms:

Swelling - Nausea - Pain Below Ribs - Vision Distortion - High Blood Pressure.