“There aren’t enough words to describe the outstanding care they provide"
When she was born, 18-month old Autumn spent the first five weeks of her life in NICU (neonatal intensive care unit). Mum, Sophie, shares her story:
Autumn is a happy, laid back and strong little girl who loves to run around and play with her siblings. She loves exploring new places, and especially loves spending time with her big brother Oscar and big sister Ineke.
Autumn was born two weeks before her due date, and at two hours old she had a low blood glucose level and was admitted to NICU. At four days old, she was transferred to The Royal London Hospital. After many episodes of hypoglycaemia, we were given the diagnosis of hyperinsulinism.
She spent the first five weeks of her life in NICU, where she received what we can only describe as such incredible and amazing care. Having your precious baby girl so poorly in hospital was the most terrifying thing we have ever experienced. However, thanks to the incredible support, care and knowledge of the staff we knew that she was in the most capable hands.
Strangely, despite her being very unwell, not once were we ever afraid about the situation we were in as her medical needs were always met. Staff were so friendly, supportive, and helpful towards us as a family.
We are particularly grateful and truly blessed that Autumn is under the care of Dr Shah and his endocrine team. There aren’t enough words to describe the outstanding care they provide. From the moment we were introduced and our daughter received her diagnosis we’ve received endless support as a family.
We were thrown into a world of medication, glucose monitoring, hospital visits and blood tests but Dr Shah always gave us and Autumn time to process information and ask any questions. Every time Autumn visits Dr Shah it’s evident how much his patients mean to him and how dedicated he is. We will forever be grateful for the kindness he has shown.
There have been many occasions where I have felt like I haven’t known what to do, and have always been reassured by the team. Autumn’s hyperinsulinism has now resolved, but we are still under the care of the team for her ketotic hypoglycaemia and postprandial hypoglycaemia.
From the bottom of our hearts, we would like to express our deep felt gratitude to every single person who has been involved in our daughter’s care - from four days old, to now.