15th November 2021
In support of the publication of a new research study on Improving the Delivery of Different News to Families by Healthcare Professionals, we share a story from a parent’s perspective.
As soon as I was invited to share my story, I felt compelled to do it. I knew that if it helped one person to avoid the stress of being told of a diagnosis in an ill-thought-out way, then it was worth it.
It was also really cathartic to talk about my experiences. I was told in the middle of the night after my husband has gone home that I wanted to sleep because my daughter’s birth had been fast and my body was exhausted. I didn’t take it in and then had to tell my husband alone.
To be able to talk about something that had actually stayed with us months after, taking attention away from the love and joy of having our little girl, was important for me.
The fact that it is helping to shape training for professionals is wonderful.
The interview was carried out so well, I felt really listened to and at ease talking about a really emotive event.
My specific story is actually shared in the training itself, and it really means a lot to know that people are hearing it and learning better ways to deliver diagnoses.
Being part of this process was a really positive experience, knowing that what I shared has gone a little way to changing the way that the professionals approach other families.
Parent with Lived Experience of receiving different news in the first 1001 days of a child’s life.
- Read the Easy Read version of the report
- Also, read iHV Policy Brief – Improving the way healthcare professionals inform parents about their child having congenital anomalies in the first two years of life
If you are interested in attending a future Delivering Different News training event please contact: [email protected] to express interest in any future dates available.
