Heartbeat: A labour of love

November 16, 2020

With so much going on in the world, it’s easy to overlook the positives. We’ve all become used to dealing with multiple tasks at once as we juggle everything 2020 has had to throw at us. One person that knows what it can be like balancing priorities is our very own Infection Prevention and Control Nurse Advisor, Gemma Charles.

At the start of 2020, Gemma found out that she was going to take on a whole new chapter in her life as a new mum. As the Coronavirus pandemic began to unfold, she saw first-hand the nervousness of expectant mums who were unsure of what pregnancy would be like during a pandemic. She told us: “My experience as an inpatient has been extremely positive. I began this journey in antenatal at the start of 2020 and, nine months later, I have given birth to my daughter, Dawson, on the serenity suite at City Hospital. Every member of staff I encountered was a credit to the Trust. I can’t speak highly enough of my experience, especially in the situation we find ourselves in at the moment.”

After giving birth, Gemma had to return to the hospital. She recalled: “My encounters with colleagues extended beyond the birth of Dawson. I had to visit accident and emergency as she became unwell after returning home. She was transferred to Lyndon 1 at Sandwell where all of the staff were fantastic – they couldn’t have done enough for us. She was an inpatient for two nights there. When we returned home, we had visitors from midwives and health visitors who were incredibly helpful.”

Gemma added: “I have worked for the Trust for ten years and I was a student here before that for three years. I can honestly say the care we have received on every step of this journey has been outstanding. It made me feel very proud to work for the organisation. In a time where a lot is uncertain, I felt very safe and secure in the hands of colleagues and within the Trust. Thank you to everyone that has helped me along the way.”

Helen Hurst, Director of Midwifery commented: “We are delighted that Gemma has shared her positive experience with us. We strive to deliver woman, baby and family centred care of the highest quality. We value feedback from our ladies and families as they are integral to shaping our service.”