Mother’s Day is always meaningful for mums, but for families with babies in the Special Care Nursery (SCN) at Mackay Base Hospital, the day carries even greater emotion and gratitude.
For Ooralea mum Emma Kay, this year’s celebration comes with an extra special reason - the arrival of her fourth child, baby Eleanor.
Little Eleanor was born on 30 April weighing just 1.5kg, arriving several weeks ahead of her original due date of 27 May. Complications during pregnancy, including fetal growth restriction and pre-eclampsia, meant Emma’s delivery had already been brought forward, with a caesarean section planned for 8 May.
But Eleanor had other plans. After Emma’s membranes ruptured unexpectedly, the tiny newborn arrived even earlier via emergency caesarean section at 36 weeks gestation, obviously eager to meet her siblings and celebrate her mum this Mother’s Day.
For Emma and husband Michael, Eleanor’s premature arrival has been both emotional and challenging, particularly after three previous stress-free water births with son Oliver, 11, and daughters Willow, 9, and Bella, 3.
Having to leave their newborn in the SCN after Emma was discharged home on Friday was especially difficult.
“It’s been a very steep learning curve, even as a mum of four,” Emma said.
“But we know she’s in the best hands here.”
The couple chose the name Eleanor because it means “shining light”, while her middle name, Hope, reflects the strength and optimism needed throughout what had been a difficult pregnancy.
The family also has plenty to celebrate this time of year, with Oliver born on 28 April, Eleanor on 30 April and Bella celebrating her birthday on 3 May — meaning three of the couple’s four children now share the same birthday week.
This Mother’s Day, we wish the Kay family all the very best as Eleanor continues to grow and thrive under the dedicated and compassionate care of the SCN team at Mackay Base Hospital.
We also acknowledge the many doctors, nurses, midwives and healthcare staff across the health service spending Mother’s Day away from their own loved ones while caring for patients and families throughout our hospitals and facilities.
To all mothers, grandmothers and mother figures in our community, Happy Mother’s Day 💕