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At 24 weeks pregnant with twin boys, I was admitted to Aberdeen Maternity Hospital with early onset of pre-eclampsia. At the same time, it was discovered that the blood & nutritional flow to one of the twins was compromised; a condition known as “non-distolic flow”. 

 

On the 17 December 2012, we were given a tour of the neonatal unit at AMH, and advised that the twins would need specialist care in the unit. The tour and discussions with the staff would help prepare us for the early delivery.  

 

By the time the 21 December came, my pre-eclampsia condition worsened and we were advised that the twins would need delivered within 48 hours. I was 25 weeks pregnant. 

 

On the morning of 22 December we received the devastating news that AMH could not accommodate both my babies if they were born (due to a lack of ventilators) and therefore I had to be transferred to another hospital as soon as possible. I was transferred by ambulance that day to Ayrshire Maternity Unit, Crosshouse, Kilmarnock. 

 

The twins were born by emergency caesarean section at Crosshouse on 23 December. Jamie weighing 1lb 14ozs, and Campbell 1lb 6ozs. We were told that the odds were stacked against us, but our motto to the docs was “just give it your best shot!” They certainly did that! 

 

Both boys got off to a great start in the ITU of Crosshouse neonatal unit; they both received 0.5 mls of milk every 12 hours! The nurses and doctors were amazing and so caring towards our babies. 

 

Sadly, at 6 days old, Campbell developed some problems, and his condition deteriorated. The doctors were by his side constantly over the next 3 days trying everything in their power to help him battle through. Unfortunately he was too small, and on 1 January, we decided to switch off his ventilator and let him sleep in his mummy and daddy’s arms. Campbell died on 1 January at 18:35, aged 9 days. 

 

On 2 January, the consultants managed to get Jamie flown back home to Aberdeen MH neonatal unit, where he continues to do well and is getting bigger each day. I think he has his wee brother’s fight and determination!! 

 

We can’t thank the staff at Crosshouse enough – words can’t describe the gratitude we have for the work they do, day-in day-out. A very special mention to the boys’ aunties and uncles at Crosshouse: Jamie, Gail, Pam, Audrey, Lawrence and others that will forever be remembered for giving my wee boys the best possible start in life. 

 

The early arrival of my twins brought home the amazing work done by these two units. It’s not until you’re receiving a service that you quickly realise the dedication these people have towards saving and caring for your babies. Our fundraising will help try and show our gratitude in a small way. 

 

The Events: Two different fund-raising events are to be undertaken on Saturday 13 April 2013, both setting-off at 9:00am; 

 

Firstly, a 38.5 mile bike ride along the Formartine and Buchan Way, from Peterhead to Dyce. In addition, a 13 mile walk from Ellon to Dyce, also along the Formartine and Buchan Way. 

 

Those taking part: 

 

Bike Ride: Diane Booth, Steven Booth, Mary Bruce, James Fox, Kirsty George, Jamie Gordon, Mike Lawson, Keith Lewis, Lindsay MacInnes, Amanda McLennan, Derek O’Sullivan, Mike Padley, Sharon Robb, Vikki Ross, Lesley Strachan, David Templeton, Karen Templeton. 

 

The Walk: Mary Agnew, Sheila Baird, Tom Baird, Sara Braithwaite, Jackie Bulman, Vicky Bulman, David Cheyne, Charles Clark Snr, Lizzie Fenton, Lynda Grant, Lauren Grant, Jazz Grant (4-legged walker), Aileen Guyan, Muriel Jackson, Dawid Kasiuba, Edyta Katniak, Dave McDonald, Jacqueline McDonald, Lynis Masson, Steven Masson, Jenna Montgomery, Hazel Norrie, Tracy Runcie, Lauren Runcie, Diesel Runcie (another 4-legged walker), Marie Smith, Sheila Swanney, Carolyn Thomson, Kimberley Wong. 

 

Any donations made are very much appreciated by all those taking part, and all those who receive care and assistance at these neonatal units.

Julie Clark

 

So please dig deep and donate now.