Preterm birth team saves little Evelina
This is Evelina - whose gentle cry sounded like a tiny kitten as she was brought into the world.
Mum Aliesia Khilko gave birth to the delicate newborn at just 25 weeks into her pregnancy at our Women’s Hospital where doctors fought to keep the youngster alive.
And today – four years on - she is a true symbol of hope and strength for her family and a little girl who loves to sing and draw.
“Her cry reminded me a kitten when she was born,” recalled Aliesia. “I was thankful to God that she had survived and was very happy. I remember the doctor telling me that the delivery had gone well and she weighed just 718 grams – less than a bag of sugar. I truly was in trusted and professional hands.”
The mum-of-two had been rushed to the hospital just three weeks earlier and placed under the care of the Preterm Birth Team led by Consultant Dr Fidan Israfil-Bayli, after being at risk of going into early labour.
“I was told the baby could come at any moment,” explained Aliesia. “It was difficult for them to say if they could save my baby because she was so early.
“In my mind I kept thinking about this conversation and I begged and prayed to God to prolong this pregnancy – that my baby would stay inside my belly long enough to survive. I kept thinking ‘why me?’”
Aliesia, who had arrived in the UK from the Ukraine a few weeks earlier with her eldest daughter Karolina, very quickly realised she was in expert hands.
“At that point I also knew the doctors had very good experience of looking after extremely preterm babies, where the modern technical equipment and methods of treatment would lead to good outcomes.
“They were informing me of what was happening every day and what could happen in the future which was very reassuring. This included a leaflet with information around what would happen if the baby was born at different stages of gestation. That’s why I prayed she was born from 28 weeks onwards.”
Aliesia received specialist treatment including psychological support and 24 hour access to an interpreting system which helped her to communicate.
She was left impressed by the care she received in the lead up to and after the birth especially from the neonatal team.
“They dealt with my situation with real compassion and the quality of the medical care was superb,” added Aliesia.
“Dr Israfil-Bayli was in full control of my birth. She helped me to deliver my baby independently, even though there was a high risk of postpartum haemorrhage or caesarean section.
“Midwives were there to constantly check me throughout my labour and everything was thoroughly prepared for the birth.”
Evelina remained at the hospital for 23 days receiving specialist care. Her mum was able to visit everyday to feed and care for her baby.
“I had an opportunity to be with my baby 24 hours a day, every day. I was encouraged to use the kangaroo method, when they put your baby on your chest so they can feel your warmth to establish the emotional connection with their mother.
“It was a very happy time for me because I could read to her and we could listen to music together. The Neonatal team were tremendous and the care and support I received was second to none.
“My husband Artur was still in the Ukraine, but I was able to video call him so he could bond with Evelina too.”
After being discharged from our Women’s Hospital, care for Evelina continued at Worcester Hospital and finally at 11 months old, she returned to the Ukraine with her mum and sister where they were reunited with Artur.
“The doctors in Ukraine were impressed Evelina’s treatment from doctors and neonatologists,” said Aliesia.
“They were amazed at how they had been able to care for baby born so prematurely without any serious neurological disabilities.
“She is a beautiful girl and developing at the same level as her peers. She is quite petite, so sometimes we joke that may be a ballerina or gymnast in the future.
“She likes singing. Her movements are very active and her drawings are full of love and joy.
“She knows lots of English songs and I do think that’s maybe because a little bit of Britain still lives in her heart.
“I want to thank every single medical professional that helped to bring Evelina into the world.
“I believe she is as strong as her motherland, Ukraine.”