I fell incredibly ill, incredibly fast, just over 28 hours after giving birth. After a very tramatic night of tests, 25 hours on a magnesium sulfate drip, xrays, CTs and ultrascans, it was confirmed I had developed the very rare HELLP syndrome. Not only a rare case, but the doctors told me I had a very, very, severe case no doctor at my local Hospital had ever seen before in terms of how quickly and highly my liver function blood work went up (I was later told I was in acute liver failure), and platelets came down to a incredibly low level fast. I went from having "normal levels" to alarmingly bad within 5 hours of my last set of "normal" bloods. I became very popular, and I'm sure a lot of specalists around New Zealand now know my name and case.

What followed was a waiting game in the HDU, for each 6 hourly blood test to show any improvement in my liver function and platelet function. All while balancing me not getting any dangerous blood clots, but also not bleeding out (due to pre eclampsia). I continued to remain mentally stable, and tried to rest when I could. As each 6 hours went on we got more and more positive news. My liver and platelet levels slowly improved and I was re united with my baby 48 hours later. I was then slowly reintroduced to the ward and eventually home. I had to take about 8 weeks of different blood pressure medications. I was very lucky to come out okay. Our baby is thriving, and I am doing well.

Unfortunately the trauma for me is still very raw and real even 6 months later. The trauma of that experience made the early postpartum days hard for me, I just didn't realise it until later. It's a journey that doesn't end.onve you exit the hospital as you always have that thought about what it means for the future.