Huge thanks to team for family's baby joy

Baby Saffa Begum is only four weeks old but already the centre of her parents’ world, who are grateful to the staff at Tameside Hospital for her safe delivery.

Her birth posed a challenge for doctors and midwives as her mum Kholi is profoundly deaf. To complicate matters she had developed gestational diabetes. 

But, through the use of a sign language interpreter, and with dad Salman’s help, a care plan was agreed and a Caesarean section was booked for the morning of November 8, 2019.

However, nature had its own plans, and Mrs Begum went into labour and Saffa was born by emergency section in the middle of the night. She was admitted to the neonatal unit, but with expert care and support, mum and baby were allowed home after a few days.

Dad Salman says he and his wife will be forever grateful to the hospital for the wonderful care and attention they received. 

“We were in safe hands and we totally trusted the team. We are blessed to have such a healthy daughter,” he said.

Consultant Dr Purnima Gondane-Sweetman, called together the team after she met the couple, who live in Hyde, in her Diabetes Antenatal Clinic. 

She explained: “This was a potentially complex case for us and at any one meeting we had 12 people, including a sign language interpreter and a Bengali interpreter in the room, giving their valuable input and advice.

“In fact we all decided to learn a few basics of sign language to make the meetings less daunting for Mrs Begum. I am delighted for the couple, and send my congratulations to them.”

Karen James, Hospital Chief Executive says she is proud of the excellent teamwork that has resulted in such a happy outcome. 

“We are a Trust totally committed to equality and diversity and to supporting those patients who need extra support and understanding. 

“My own good wishes go the family at this happy time.”