Brilliant Midwife Saves Baby After Stroke in the Womb
When Nikki Legg’s baby suffered a rare stroke in the womb, it was the quick-thinking of diabetic midwife Ann Going at Queen Alexandra Hospital that saved his life. Nikki, 29, from Waterlooville, had never heard of fetal strokes before but credits Ann’s vigilance with bringing her son Jameson into the world safely.
Diabetic Mum’s Careful Journey to Motherhood
Nikki, a type 1 diabetic since childhood, was closely monitored by midwife Ann before and during her pregnancy to keep her blood sugar levels in check. “After three months of preparation, I was over the moon when I found out I was pregnant,” says Nikki, a dental nurse.
Due to her baby growing faster than usual, Nikki underwent monthly scans. But at 37 weeks, just two days after a clear scan, Nikki suddenly couldn’t feel Jameson move. She rushed to QA Hospital for an emergency check.
Midwife’s Sharp Eye Triggers Emergency C-Section
Ann spotted Nikki in the waiting room and immediately checked on her. Despite efforts to get Jameson moving by changing Nikki’s positions, there was no response.
“Anne was not happy with the baby’s lack of movement and quickly arranged for an emergency C-section,” Nikki recalls. “She phoned my husband giving him just 30 minutes to get there and reassured me the whole time.”
Baby Jameson arrived weighing a massive 10lb 1oz but was struggling to breathe. It took six tense minutes for the team to resuscitate him. Nikki watched helplessly as her newborn was revived.
Stroke Diagnosis and Life Despite the Odds
Jameson was rushed to neonatal care, spending two weeks in hospital. Tests later revealed he’d suffered a brain bleed causing a stroke, likely due to poor blood flow linked to his large size – unrelated to Nikki’s diabetes.
Now three, Jameson has part cerebral palsy and walks with a frame. Despite motor delays, he shows no behavioural issues and has normal speech. With ongoing physio at QA Hospital, Nikki remains hopeful:
“He can’t do everything yet, like dressing himself, but we’re training his brain to master those movements one day.”
Joyful Second Pregnancy Thanks to Expert Care
Nikki returned to Ann when she decided to have another baby. Once again, Ann closely monitored her diabetes and pregnancy. At 38 weeks, Nikki welcomed baby Alice, a healthy 9lb 6oz bundle of joy.
“Ann went above and beyond for our family,” says Nikki. “Her care helped me feel confident despite our past struggles. Being a midwife is more than just a job for her – she’s a lifesaver.”
The Diabetes and Pregnancy Reality
Diabetes can increase pregnancy risks for both mum and baby, including miscarriage, large babies, and birth complications. But with proper pre-pregnancy counselling and expert monitoring like Nikki’s, these dangers can be vastly reduced.
This incredible story proves how attentive care and quick action can make all the difference – turning tragedy into triumph for families like Nikki’s.
