A mother who experienced severe blood loss during her child’s delivery has expressed gratitude towards the exceptional medical team that saved both her and her baby’s lives.
Harriet Paget, a 36-year-old woman from Farnham, Surrey, faced a life-threatening pregnancy complication known as placenta accreta, where the placenta grows too deeply into the uterus. Harriet was admitted to St George’s Hospital in Tooting, south-west London after being diagnosed with this condition at 30 weeks into her pregnancy. The situation was critical as delivering her baby posed a significant risk.
Harriet had to stay in the hospital for the latter part of her pregnancy due to the condition, and her daughter was born at 35 weeks via a planned c-section. During the delivery, Harriet lost an extraordinary 13 liters of blood, but the medical team led by Consultant in Obstetrics and Fetal Medicine Ana Pinas managed to save her life through life-saving procedures.
Following the birth, Harriet’s daughter required immediate breathing support in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, while Harriet herself was taken to intensive care. Miraculously, both mother and baby recovered and were able to go home just eight days later.
Consultant Ana Pinas described Harriet’s case as one of the most challenging they had encountered, emphasizing the importance of teamwork in providing safe and excellent patient care. Harriet, deeply moved by the care she received, paid tribute to Ana by giving her daughter the middle name Ana. She also participated in the London Landmarks Half Marathon, raising over £5,000 for St George’s Hospital charity.
Encouraging others to nominate healthcare staff for recognition, Harriet praised the outstanding care she received at St George’s and highlighted the dedication of NHS workers. St George’s Hospital Managing Director, Kate Slemeck, commended the hospital staff for their exceptional care and encouraged patients to share their positive experiences through nominations.
The St George’s Hospital Charity Director of Fundraising and Communications, Davina Metters, commended Harriet’s fundraising efforts as a remarkable way of showing appreciation for the hospital staff who had saved her life.
Last year, more than 500 staff members were nominated for a gesh CARE Award, which recognizes the efforts of clinical and support staff. Nominations for this year’s awards can be submitted via the provided link until October 8.