Susan’s Story

12 Aug Susan’s Story

I was 36 weeks pregnant with Sara when I went into labour. My previous labours had started at 36 weeks, so I wasn’t concerned. We arrived at the labour ward, met my midwife where she started to go through all the initial checks, blood pressure, urine sample baby’s heartbeat..

That’s when the bottom fell out of my world.

She couldn’t find her heartbeat on the doppler. She popped us in the next room for a scan she didn’t seem overly concerned and she got the doctor to come perform the scan.

I was none the wiser, then came the words: “your baby has died in the womb… there’s no heartbeat”.

The next 12 hours went by in a blur.

My daughter Sara was born at 10pm that night, she was beautiful, full head of dark hair and a good weight.

At first, there was no apparent reason why she died. We later found out I had developed obstetric cholestasis, and this was the cause of death.

I celebrate each year by sharing her photo and name Sara Anne Lindsley, 2/09/03.

There are many organisations that offer support to anyone affected by pregnancy and baby loss.

Sands supports anyone affected by pregnancy loss or the death of a baby and works to save babies’ lives. Contact their Helpline via phone (0808 154 3332) or email, or visit their Support Groups online or via Zoom.