My Blog

Raising awareness about postnatal illness is high on my list of life’s goals. Last week was a time that achieved that in a wide variety of ways.

What are your goals and how are you achieving them?

On Monday I was contacted by Sky news. They had an exclusive story the next day regarding research around a new blood test that could potentially show if a pregnant lady was at risk of developing postnatal depression.

They had made a short film with another former sufferer, Rachel Dobson, who has also gone on to help others with her wonderful charity Pandas Foundation. Sky wanted another example and asked me. We established that I could go to their studio at Wilmslow in Cheshire and I would be live on air at 10.30 a.m. next morning.

I duly arrived next day and was prepared for the ‘black hole’ studio experience – see my previous blog. I perched on a stool, with  Dermot Murnaghan’s voice in my ear, with only blackness to look at with two bright lights above me. As he began I could see a small monitor at the side but wasn’t sure if I was ‘on’. On the playback you can see I was looking! Glad I didn’t pick my teeth! Lesson number one – remember that the camera will be on you as soon as the piece starts.

I have received many lovely messages – the key one being that it was good to have a positive take on PND.

(You may have picked up on my mention that my son is a keen photographer. I am especially proud of him as he has been selected to join some other Cheshire 6th form students on an autumn visit to Tuscany. I am sure he will produce some stunning shots.)

As regards the research, I would urge caution on it. Far more research is needed first to really confirm the outcome.  Also I wonder: if you were told you were at greater risk, would that actually increase the risk as you might then be mentally expecting to develop it? Perhaps your brain would be overly cautious and therefore be more anxious? On the other hand, if you are aware of a greater risk, then perhaps you and all those around you could plan and prepare ways to make early motherhood healthier?

Either way I was delighted to be asked and I hope my contribution has inspired others.

On Wednesday I had the delight of speaking to first year student midwives at Chester University. I am always pleased to have the opportunity of sharing my story and knowledge with those new to the healthcare profession. I trust that my experiences may help them in their practice for years to come.

The following evening I was invited to speak to the WI group at Whitley, Cheshire. I shared my experiences of motherhood and other challenges of life in order to offer some awareness of postnatal illness and some of my tips to keep smiling! The ladies made me feel very welcome and many confirmed that my aims had been met.

I notice that one of their campaigns concerns the need for more midwives. I would be happy to address more of their groups if this would support that worthy cause.

Friday morning was spent with more students – this time at Salford with 2nd year mental health student nurses. I wanted to inspire them by showing how recovery is possible after a serious mental illness. I also wanted to emphasise that the smallest of kind actions can have a huge impact on the people in their care.

A good friend of mine, Molly Harvey, has often said ‘be careful what you wish for’. During a conversation in the week I mentioned that I haven’t been dancing for ages – this is pleasure that I really enjoy.

My amazing working week was finished off with an unexpected invitation to do just that! One of my other speaking colleagues and friend, Amanda Clarke, asked if I was free to go with her to a Picnic in the Park at Arley Hall on Saturday evening. Was I willing?  Of course I was!

We sorted out a picnic and with incredible logistical timing, got into the car park amidst the first few that were allowed in. We found an ideal spot and  ‘made home’ with our chairs and rug. We munched on our tasty food and had a good chat in the sunshine. The grounds soon filled up and soon the first singing act came on. A ‘lady’ came to ask Amanda to move the umbrella we had wedged between the chairs for shade as it spoiled her view. It was only head height – if that – as we were sitting on the floor. Amanda attempted to move it and explained that she needed it to prevent burning. It still wasn’t good enough for the other woman. Amanda politely suggested that she moved as we had been there first. At that, the ‘lady’ threw her red wine all over Amanda! Charming! I was extremely impressed at how calm she was!

The rest of the evening was excellent. There was music from tribute bands – The Supreme Divas of Motown, Abba Forever, The Rollin’ Clones plus special guests. Many people were up dancing – including us! Barefoot in the grass. Wonderful. I hope that the evening raised plenty of money for the Neuro Muscular Centre. I shall put the date in my diary for next year. Thank you Amanda for a very good evening – and I hope the red wine came out!

Now, what is next on my wish list?

I shall continue to raise awareness of postnatal illness whenever I can.

What will you do about your goals?

How serious are you about them?

Do you need support with them? If so, from whom?

What is stopping you from asking?

Elaine