Mother of premature baby in Dubai appeals for help

Abigail was born 12 weeks before due date and weighed just 720gm. — Supplied photo

Dubai -Seeing your child swathed in tubes and bandages in a hospital is a painful sight for any parent, but if the child has been given a poor prognosis by doctors, the pain doubles.

Abigail was born on November 11, at least 12 weeks before the due date in February. “It was my first pregnancy and remained uneventful during the first and second trimester,” explained Jaidelyn Nacalaban, Abigail’s 26-year-old mother.

“The day of the delivery, it all happened very suddenly ... my water broke and doctors told me I was feverish,” said the Filipina.

Jaidelyn was rushed to Dubai Hospital where Abigail was born normally, but due to the prematurity, she was kept in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU).

Weighing just 720 grams, doctors have said there is bleeding in Abigail’s brain. Her underdeveloped lungs need support since she cannot breath on her own while her stomach is bloated — all medical complications associated with premature birth. “It is a tough time for me and my husband Stanley. We had made so many plans for our first child but this has left us at a loss,” said the mother. “I just want to hold my child close to me just once but I can’t do so because she is very weak,” she added.

“Besides, all I see is wires, monitors and bandages.”

Jaidelyn works as a secretary while her husband is employed at a private firm in Abu Dhabi.

“I rejoined by job three weeks ago since we have to pay the huge bills ... My husband can visit us only during the weekend,” she said. The couple has to pay Dh4,000 per day to keep their child in the NICU unit.

“Doctors have said Abigail may have to stay in the NICU for three months,” said Jaidelyn tearfully.

Jaidelyn has approached the Philippines Consulate and is hopeful they will offer financial help. “I just want to bring my child home and be able to hug her whenever I want.” —asmaalizain@khaleejtimes.com