Just under seven years ago, Rebecca’s little girl Emily, who was almost two at the time, was admitted to our Paediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) at the Queen’s Medical Centre, with severe pneumonia.
Transferred during the night from University Hospitals of Derby and Burton, Emily was critically unwell; her parents feared the worst.
Emily, now eight years old, has made a full recovery and is a happy and healthy little girl [pictured, Emily coming home after her ordeal in hospital].
Speaking of the experience, Rebecca said: “I cannot fault the care given to Emily whilst she was on PICU at the QMC.
“The skill, the knowledge and the passion from all of the staff saved our daughter’s life when she was so tiny and so poorly – as a parent it’s something you’ll never forget. It was tough; each day was a baby step, a small glimmer of hope, and we are so grateful for the outcome.”
“The distressing memories of her illness, however, are not forgotten for her parents. The family recently moved to the Sutton Bonington area, so Emily and her little brother Oliver started at the local primary school last month; this is when fate stepped in for the family…
Receiving a friendly welcome from other parents, Rebecca joined a ‘Mums’ night’, at which she met seven mothers of children at the school.
Conversation led to the ladies talking about their careers, and when one of the Mums, called Gemma, mentioned that she’s a paediatric intensive care nurse, at the Queen’s Medical Centre, Rebecca’s cogs started to turn.
As Emily’s time in hospital was a long while ago, Rebecca didn’t think too much of it, but mentioned it lightly.
It was only when Gemma was asked for more details, that the unbelievable coincidence came to light.
Gemma had travelled with Emily during the night as she was moved from Derby to Nottingham; a case she says she has never forgotten. Rebecca, who says that her life has often surprised her with spooky coincidences, couldn’t quite believe it.
She was sat opposite the lady who had helped to save her daughter’s life. Emily’s parents have always told her about her illness, but the story always felt unfinished since Emily’s recovery.
Now, Rebecca feels the final piece has slotted into place, and she knew how much meeting Gemma would mean to Emily.
