Gemma Jamieson A young British mother who almost fell victim to preeclampsia Country: Great Britain

Biography of Gemma Jamison

Gemma Jamison is a young mother from Britain who almost became a victim of pre-eclampsia. Her journey began at a car festival in July 2013, where she experienced severe shoulder cramps. Gemma was one of the unfortunate five percent of pregnant women suffering from pre-eclampsia, a condition that causes high blood pressure and swelling in the legs, ankles, and arms due to placental problems. At 24 weeks pregnant, Gemma had a seizure, which was later revealed to be caused by pre-eclampsia. Her life and the life of her unborn child were at stake, and the only chance to save her was to deliver the baby prematurely.

Gemma recalls her hazy memories of the experience, where she would occasionally regain consciousness but quickly lose it again. She doesn't remember the birth of her son, Tyler, who was delivered through a cesarean section. Tyler weighed only 450 grams at birth. Gemma's husband, Dale, showed her a photo of their son on his phone, explaining that it was their child. Gemma couldn't believe it; she had no memories of the birth, and it felt like a dream. She felt deprived of the experience of pregnancy because she never felt her baby kick in her womb.

Tyler's chances of survival as a premature baby were slim. He was transferred to another hospital, while Gemma's condition stabilized after a few days. Tyler fought through numerous challenges, including underdeveloped lungs, which led to chronic lung disease. He underwent seventeen blood transfusions and required artificial lung ventilation. Gemma vividly remembers seeing her fragile son covered in tubes and wearing a cap in his incubator.

At four weeks old, Tyler underwent heart surgery at Great Ormond Street Hospital. Doctors informed Gemma and Dale that there was a 98% chance Tyler would become blind. However, he successfully underwent five laser eye surgeries, and his condition improved each day. Slowly but surely, Tyler began breathing on his own. When he reached six months old, he was allowed to go home, marking the happiest moment in his parents' lives.

Miraculously, Tyler's vision reached the standard required for driving. Just three weeks before his first birthday, he had overcome his breathing difficulties. At present, Gemma and Dale cannot express their joy and gratitude for their healthy 17-month-old son. Dale reflects on how he almost lost both Gemma and Tyler but is now grateful to have his family by his side. He describes them as amazing.