02 Oct Sammy’s Story
I discovered I was pregnant in January 2013. I was in shock as I wasn’t expecting to have another baby any time soon. I had a 14-week scan where they found my baby’s nuchal fold was measuring quite high, which indicated something was not going right. I was then transferred to St Mary’s in Manchester for more tests. My baby boy Leyton had a rare genetic disorder – his little skull had fused together, he had a lot of abnormalities, and I was told he had a 0.01% chance of survival.
I had to make the heartbreaking decision to let my baby fly free, and I had a medical termination of pregnancy (MTOP) on the 9th May 2013 at 22 weeks.
He was 1lb 4oz and perfect in every way. The grief, even to this day 11 years on, is still unbearable. He’ll always be my shining star. I named him after a star called Ursa Minor, which means “baby bear,” his nickname. I went on to have four more children, who know about their brother and always point out the brightest star in the sky and say, “Look, Mum, there’s Leyton.” Maybe one day I’ll find peace.
There are many Baby Loss Awareness Week organisations that offer support to anyone affected by pregnancy and baby loss. If you need support, please visit our support page or organisations page to find the right support for you.
No Comments