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born @ the women's

Born @ the Women's

Were you born at the Women's? If you were, you're in great company.



Thousands of Australians have been welcomed into the world at the Women's including sport and entertainment celebrities, community leaders and famous faces from the political arena.

If you, or a loved one, were born at the Women's (or Frances Perry House), we invite you to share your story by joining our Born @ the Women's club.

We want to hear from our Baby Alumni! Were you one of many in your family to be born here? Perhaps you spent time in our newborn intensive care? Do you want to honour your mum on Mother’s Day by sharing some happy stories about her? Or do you want to share how you became a mum at the Women’s?

Stories will appear on this page and only your first name will be used. (Please read the privacy disclaimer at the end of this page). To share your story please use the online form below.

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Baby Alumni stories


Bronwyn Ann


Bronwyn was born at the Francis Perry House in 1983. We were from overseas and my husband had a posting in Melbourne. What a wonderful experience it was for me at the Womens, I had the very best doctor Graham Miller and fantastic midwives. Everyone was so kind and helpful, reassuring as I had no family with me. They even gave us printed menus! Then they babysat for us on our last night (5 day stay) and gave me an inner tube to sit on so we could go to a local resturant for dinner. My husband was well looked after too, as the cricket game was on and the nurses brought him cups of tea. Thank you all !
Elizabeth - 6 January, 2012

Dante


My first son Dante was born at RWH in August 2010. As with any first child labour, nerves can be a bit traumatic. I was lucky enough to have the best midwife who was very caring and gave great advice. We're back at Women's with our second child, due in July!!!
Makaila - 4 January, 2012

Lucy


Lucy was born at RWH while I was working there in 2009 - a terrific experience! RWH will always have a place in our hearts.
Sally - 3 January, 2012

Katherine, Bridget, Rowena and James


I was lucky to have all my 4 children born at the RWH. My first daughter Kate was born premature 5/12/84 at 26wks at 866g, being oxygen dependant for 5mths. She spent in total 7 mths in hospital and went home at 9lb.

Kate has Aspergers and has recently celebrated her 27th Birthday. She has got her VCE Certifiicate, and many other TAFE Business certificates. She works part time in an office, is about to start Cert IV in Library & Information Services and loves to knit & crochet.

Bridget my 2nd daughter was born 18/8/88 at 33wks at 2204g. I had spent 6wks in hospital prior with constant threatening early delivery. Bridget is now 23yrs has a BA in Arts (Theatre & Dance) and is currently completing her Teachers Certificate. She also works with special needs Theatre groups and works in hospitality.

My 3rd daughter Rowena born 18/4/90 was born full term at 3640g but I spent 16wks in hospital with constant threatening early delivery. Rowena was a huge baby compared to my first 2. Rowena also completed VCE Certificate and has recently qualified as a Hairdresser and loves it and has a huge social life!

James my son was born 26/8/91; also born full term at 3910g - a big boy. I spent 20wks in hospital with constant threatening early delivery. James finished school early - now works in hospitality and loves it.

My experience with RWH was an experience of sheer fear and copious amounts stress that many of us face with long term hospitalization and the threat of premature birth. I could not of been able to cope nor just plain stay in hospital for these long lengths facing the world of the unknown without the sheer depth of dedication for all levels of staff from putting up with me in hospital to the care given in neonatal ........ I obviously have more stories about each of my stays in RWH, BUT ALL I have to say I a big THANKYOU TO ALL.
Deborah - 15 December, 2011

Steven Paul


My son Steven Paul was born at the RWH on 13/3/74 after an 18 hour labour. My Doctor was Charles Wilson. Steven was considered premature even though I was induced. He was placed in a humi crib for several days. I was sent home and collected him a week later after he had gained the minimum weight.
Helen Maree - 14 December, 2011

James, Ruby and Joel


I had triplets at the hospital last year.
Raelene - 26 November, 2011

Ilda


I was born at the RWH in 1992 and I was the first born for my parents. My parents made their way to the hospital at midnight waiting for my birth. 11 hours later, I became very stressed and my mum couldn't feel me moving anymore. I was then delivered by emergency caesarian immediately. I was born at 11.29am, weighing 5 pound 15 ounces and was the first born girl in my entire family.
Ilda - 3 November, 2011

Melanie and Melissa


I was born at the RWH in 1956 and was number 5 baby for my parents. I began a long journey with the RWH from 1976 after being diagnosed with PCOS and placed in the care of the endocrine clinic with Dr James Evans who is my knight in shining armour along with Dr O'Herlihy from Dublin. After 4 years of fertility treatment I finally hit the jackpot. I was rapt that I was finally on my way to being a mother.

At the 14th week of my pregnancy Dr O'Herlihy thought I was way too big for the dates so I had scan done. I was told by the Dr doing this I was having a multiple pregnancy. I cried as I wasn't prepared for more than one baby but I soon warmed to the idea. It was a traumatic time really as I had so many close calls in losing them.

In August of 1980 I was admitted for bed rest at 28 wks and lots of treatment to get all ready for an early delivery. I spent 2 weeks confined to bed and I hated it all and was only wishing to be able to leave the room for a little time to socialise with other soon to be mums. On the 7th of Sept my husband thought he was going to be a father on Fathers day - it was not to be.

Our first little cherub came into the world on 8/9/80 at 2.12am 1730grams and our 2nd cherub came into the world at 2.37am 1715grams. Both our little girls Melanie and Melissa were taken to ICU and it was scary for us. But it turned to fun times when we had our first hold of them when they were 5 days old. To me it was the longest 6 weeks I had to endure - going home without my babies and crying at the window in the flat we lived at in Northcote as I could see the hospital from there.

So on my 24th birthday I was admitted for bonding which didn't go as smoothly as my time at the special care nurseries with my girls. I had only been breastfeeding them for a couple of days so I was still struggling to get them both to feed at same time. I was assigned a wonderful male nurse who was such a treasure. Without the fantastic nursing staff and medical staff of this totally awesome hospital I would never have had my babies. They are now 31 years old, and no - they haven't had children as yet as both of them have PCOS. But I do wish the RWH a wonderful future and may the signs of miracles shine from there.
Debra - 26 October, 2011

Lauren


Lauren was born at RWH in December 1986 at the height of the nurses' strike. As a nurse I supported the actions taken. However, the birth of my first bub was not entirely as planned. The Birthing Unit was closed, and Frances Perry too. On Dec 5th a lot of women were delivering and very few dedicated tired and overworked midwives to assist them. I had a training midi with me and she and all the staff were terrific. A happy beginning! Thanks to a great institution for care of women.
Sarion - 20 October, 2011

Michael


My son Michael was born at the RWH on 1 September 2011 by a c/section as he stubbornly remained in a breech position. My midwives knew that my husband and I were hoping for a completely natural birth and staff have tried everything to make our stubborn boy to turn, including 2 separate ECV sessions.

Michael was a small baby at 2.7kg full term and required assistance to learn to feed. Thanks to the wonderful care from lactation consultants and the midwives, breastfeeding was successful and I can enjoy this bonding time with my boy.

I feel very fortunate at having enjoyed pre natal care and given birth at the Women's. The staff could not have been more professional and the facilities are cutting edge.
Polina - 28 September, 2011

Leah


My mum was admitted to the Royal Women's on Saturday the 8th of May in labor. But I decided that I was'nt quite ready to make my entrance just yet. Mother's day came and mum thought that she was going to recieve her first Mother's Day gift, but not yet. I decided that Monday was to be the day but I did'nt make it easy apparently. I was breech. Bum first with legs up around my head and the cord around my throat.

Mum said that because I was to be a breech delivery they asked her if she would'nt mind a few student doctors coming in to watch. Mum said she could'nt have cared less by this time.

Around 9am on the 10th May 1976 I arrived blue and starved of oxygen. Mum said that I was taken away immediatley and revived. I was apparently whisked straight to ICU and mum said that it was hours before she was allowed to see me. I can't imagine going through what she did at 19 years of age and with her first baby. She to this day praises those who took care of me.
Leah - 21 September, 2011

Ian


I was born at the Royal Women's Hospital Carlton on the 17 August 1955.

In later years 1974 to 1977 I was a student at the University Of Melbourne from January 1974 to December 1977 and I graduated at Wilson Hall, University Of Melbourne on 8 March 1978 with a Bachelor Of Arts (Degree with Honours).

The University of Melbourne is adjacent to the University of Melbourne. We used to live in Lygon St East Brunswick, and my parents Abraham and Esther did not own a car, so we always travelled on Tram Routes Number 1 East Coburg to South Melbourne Beach, and 15 Moreland to St Kilda Beach.

On every trip I passed, and saw through the windows of the tram, the Royal Women's Hospital and the University Of Melbourne, from my earliest years. My brother Murray was also born at the Royal Women's Hospital on 12 March 1959.
Ian - 20 September, 2011

Charlie and Henry


I gave birth to both my boys Charlie (now 3) and Henry (now 19 months) at the new RWH in Parkville. Charlie was born only 5 weeks after the new hospital opened (at 36 weeks), and the care was great. Henry came along 18 months later (at 37 weeks), and again, I felt I had the necessary support to ensure my babies had the best start in life. My births were quick, uncomplicated, and I had the support I needed (especially the marvellous LC's!)

So much so, that I am now studying midwifery with the hope of one day working at the Women's hospital and ensuring that other women receive the same kind of care I received!

We spent 16 weeks in ICU and SCN. Plenty of good times and lots of bad. But he pulled throgh and finally came home 2 weeks after his due date.

He's now almost 4 years old and people often comment on how bright he is. We are very proud of our little man.

We are so grateful to the wanderful team at the RWH. You will always have a special place in our hearts.

3 years later we now have a daughter, Talia (born full term and perfect) at Frances Perry House.

Thank you so much RWH / FPH.
Belinda - 14 September, 2011

Jack


I was only 25 weeks pregnant when my membranes ruptured while I was at work. I was rushed to the RWH. I was petrified! Although, felt reassured being at the RWH.

Our son Jack was born on 17/11/2007 at 1.52am.

We spent 16 weeks in ICU and SCN. Plenty of good times and lots of bad. But he pulled throgh and finally came home 2 weeks after his due date.

He's now almost 4 years old and people often comment on how bright he is. We are very proud of our little man.

We are so grateful to the wanderful team at the RWH. You will always have a special place in our hearts.

3 years later we now have a daughter, Talia (born full term and perfect) at Frances Perry House.

Thank you so much RWH / FPH.
Sue - 8 September, 2011

Talia


In March 2009 I was hospitalised at the Women's pre-natal care unit with bulging membranes and a stich was placed. I was only 20 weeks pregnant with our first baby. I was bedridden for 5 weeks when my waters finally broke and Talia was born at 25 weeks and 6 days weighing just 683 grams.

We spent 15 weeks in NICU in the Women's hospital and the Frances Perry Special Care Nursery. It was a long and scary ride for the whole family but we managed to get through it with the great help of staff, doctors, nurses and volunteers. Plus the Little Premies foundation were also a brilliant help.

Talia is now 2 and half and thriving beautifully giving us all cheek.

Thanks to everyone at the hospital involved.
Belinda - 5 September, 2011

Zachary and James


My beautiful twin boys, Zachary and James were born at the Women's at 29 weeks due to me having severe pre-eclampsia. They were both a little over 1kg each which wasn't too bad given their gestation. They spent precisely 3 months in the RWH NICU and SCN and after what seemed like an eternity of ups and downs, they came home 3 times their birth weight. They are now healthy, happy and extremely active 6 year olds and I will always remember the wonderful care they received at the Women's.
Kim - 3 September, 2011

Sue


In March 2008 I was flown from Country Vic to have my baby at the RWH, Leah was born at 24+6 weeks weighing 708gram and spent nearly 3 months there, I will be forever grateful to the RWH because my dear little Leah is now 3 and a half and doing really well.

While we were there my mother realised that not only was Leah born at the RWH but I was also, along with my mother and my grandmother - so it was 4 generations born at the RWH. What a great effort!!!
Sue - 2 September, 2011

Roanan, Amelie, Jarvis and Anais


I am very proud to say all four of my children have been born at the RWH. The first 3 at the old hospital in Carlton, and the youngest - born this year 2011 on the 7th June 5 weeks early.

My first was born in 2000, a boy, when I was 20 yrs old - a natural delivery. The 2nd, a girl, was born in 2006 - natural again, both delivered by midwives. My 3rd, another boy in 2007 was an elective cesearean. My 4th - another girl, was born just 7 weeks ago - 2011! She was 5 weeks early due to my developing preeclampsia - which was a shock to me, as my first 3 pregnancies were straightforward, as were the births with no problems.

I was in hospital 2 weeks before the birth (by emergency c- section) and was in hospital for another week and a half after. I will never forget this time, and the other mothers I met and the amazing care I received.
Thank you.
Cassie - 30 July, 2011

Marlene, Sue and Dianne


My 2 sisters and I were all born at the RWH by C Section. I was born in 1950, then Sue 1952, then Dianne 1946.
Marlene - 29 July, 2011

Francesca


I was born at the RWH in Carlton in 1956. In later years I also worked for the hospital as an receptionist in the Ultrasound department. It was sad to see the old hospital close down, just felt weird that the place I first came into this world would soon be gone (although I am not sure whether the building will be pulled down and replaced).

When I was born, the hospital was an incredibly busy place with so many children being born with parents who had come to this country from Europe after World War 2. A new start and a new life for those that would be fortunate enough to be born in Australia.

Now in my fifties I will again be at the Women's for health matters, this time as a patient. Thank goodness for the Women's.
Francesca - 28 July, 2011

Aaron and Jonathan


My first born. a son, was born at Frances Perry House on 2nd January 1980 at 1.55 pm. I'm sure every mother believes that their baby is beautiful, but I believe that my baby was the most beautiful baby with the most perfect features. He is now 31 years old, an architect, who is planning on doing a PhD in architecture some time in the future. I had a long and very painful delivery but the joy of having our first baby was an utterly wonderful and surreal experience. I loved being his mummy and he completed our lives.

Four years later he welcomed his delightful baby brother, Jonathan, born 27 March 1984, also at Frances Perry House. Aaron was a very good boy and brother, kind and a great companion for his little brother. He still has a strong moral compass. We are extremely proud of him and his younger brother.
Susie - 22 July, 2011

Jacob, James, Jayde and Jasmine


All my four children were born at the Women's hospital at the birthing centre, and l even had the same nurse there for part of the delivery of three of them.

My first child born was with a doctor and the other three were born using the midwives.. l'd recomend the midwives they were fantastic.
Michelle - 13 July, 2011

Theresa, Christina, Caitlyn, Kimberley and Jack


My Mum gave birth to her 6 children at the RWH Grattan street Carlton from 1969-1987. I was number 5, born in 1979. As my mum had such a high opinion of the care given at the RWH, it was the only hospital I trusted to give birth in.

My daughter Christina was born in 1998. I was a young and stubborn 19 year old! The fantastic pre and post natal care I received ensured that my daughter arrived into the world safely after 5 hours. Caitlyn arrived in May 2000 in 2 hours, quickly followed by Kimberley in April 2001 !

I still remember arriving at the emergency counter with the midwife already waiting for my arrival; she quickly took me upstairs with Kim arriving under an hour later; best delivery ever!

Our final bundle of joy Jack arrived in 2003, completing our 'tribe'. All of my children were born on the same floor, in the same room at the 'old' RWH, Grattan St Carlton - I even had the same fantastic midwife for 2 of the deliveries.

I am proud that both my children and I were born at the RWH.
Theresa - 5 July, 2011

Luke and Janelle


I was born in the Women's on the 4th October 1962. I gave birth to two of my babies there, my first son Luke on the 8th April 1981 and my daughter Janelle on the 22nd July 1983. My experience was of a loving caring team who made my personal, scary, trip to motherhood a wonderful journey!! I was fortunate at that time to have a longer stay in the hospital that gave me time to know my baby and to rest a bit before going home.
Leanne - 25 June, 2011

Melanie


I was born at the RWH on 24/10/1986, by emergency caesarean section as I was a week overdue and there were some complications in my birth. I had a wet lung and if it weren't for RWH, I do not know if I would have made it! My husband and I are planning a pregnancy and RWH is our 1st choice for a hospital.
Melanie - 22 June, 2011

Hugo Martin


My first child, Hugo was born on 8 August 2006 at the RWH. We were booked into the Family Birth Centre, although he ended up being born in the standard delivery ward due to the Family Birth Centre being closed that day.

After a fairly straightforward birth, I was later transferred to the Family Birth Centre and appreciated the fantastic care from all the staff for the next 3 days.

8th August 2006 was also Census day, so my son was lucky to be born just in time to 'make the count' and the Census collectors gave him a commemorative t-shirt to make this achievement.
Jane - 17 June, 2011

Temyka and Tyrown


Both my kids were born at the RWH. My daughter was born on 16/05/2011 at the old RWH - she was 2 months prem weighed 2.8kg. My son was born on 30/01/2007 - he was 3 months prem weighed 900gms. I want to thank the great team of doctors and nurses at the RWH for all the care they gave me and my kids. Words can not explain how grateful I am for the amazing work they all did for me and my family..
Jacqlinh - 6 June, 2011

Siobhan


Hi. I was born at the RWH on January 26th, by emergency caesarean section. I am most likely only alive and healthy due to the excellent healthcare I received at the RWH especially in the theatre there.
Siobhan - 26 May, 2011

Paul


My son was born on Saturday the 30th of April and I want to thank the staff at the Royal Women's for their being so supportive and caring. I went into a very fast labour and had a quick birth which I was not ready for. The staff were wonderful and Mary the midwife was fantastic .

My baby was born healthy and is doing well, but I wsh I had chosen to stay a few more days as I needed the experience of these wonderful people that work there.
Alison - 23 May, 2011

Eugene Ronald


My father Eugene was born at the RWH 26/12/1943, he was given up for adoption almost 9 months later. I have managed to locate his mother's family but not her. I was also born at the Woman's in 1962, my daughter was born there in 1980. I hope one day to find my Birth Grandmother, to reunite her with her son...
Lorelle - 16 May, 2011

Therese Margaret


I am writing to say that in 1958 I had a complicated 2nd pregnancy. The membranes ruptured at 23 weeks. I was rushed to your hospital and spent 6 weeks there. I lay in bed and hardly moved an inch!! On Sept. 9th at 29 weeks Therese Margaret was born – weighing 2 lbs. It was weeks before we were allowed to go in and nurse her. But to the credit of your staff, she thrived and it was a great thrill when we brought her home to Doncaster.

Time went quickly and I had 6 children in 7 years. She had some minor health problems. At age 7 she wrote out a roster and place on the fridge. It was the beginning of a great nursing career!! She did general nursing at Mercy private and coronary /intensive care at Alfred. She nursed briefly in London and spent several years in IC units in Saudi Arabia.

On her return, she worked at Epworth Freemasons and is now currently settled into rehab. at Mercy private. She is a lovely lady – very professional in all things, very reliable and full of integrity. The other 2 daughters are also nurses, one son is also a welfare manager, another a policeman, one a coronary care technician and the 7th child a naturopath. We are very lucky and we thank the Women’s for their fantastic care in 1958.
Rosemary - 12 May, 2011

Lucas


Thirty-two years ago my mother went in to the Royal Women's Hospital to give birth via caesarian to a 3.2 kilo baby. That was me! Twenty nine years on, I went in to the Womens to give birth to my own little son Lucas, weighing 3.5 kilos, born via emergency caesarian.

I am forever grateful for the wonderful treatment my mother and then I received at the Women's and for the little piece of history the hospital has embedded into our family.
Nubia - 9 May, 2011

Olivia and Amy


Olivia was born 6/12/2008 weighing 4.32kilos and 2 weeks overdue, and Amy was born 3/11/2009 weighing 670grams, 4 months early. I couldn't have been at a better hospital for both my babies.

Olivia's stay was short, while Amy's stay was for 3.5months in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit and Special Care Nurseries. The best nurses work in that department. What a wonderful hospital we have. They saved our precious little girl, who is now a very active 18month old (correct age 14months) - a gorgeous little girl who is adored by her big sister Olivia.
Michelle - 5 May, 2011

Mason


My little boy Mason was born via c-section at the RWH in November 2010, he was 6 weeks early and weighed just 1.383kg. The midwives who looked after me for that week b4 Mason's birth were so understanding and helpful and just amazing people.

Mason spent just over a week in the SCU (b4 being transferred to another SCBU closer to home) and for my first baby it was all a little scary but I can not thank everyone at the Women's who looked after him enough, words do not express my gratitude. They are beautiful people and are amazingly understanding and a special thanks goes out to all of them, they were so helpful to us.

Mason is now a healthy 5 month old and doing so well and I have the Women's hospital to thank for that. Any other hospital has a lot to live up to...
Jessica - 8 April, 2011

Kieran


Kieran was born at the Women's Hospital in late November 2010, under the safe guidance of an excellent team of midwives. It was very reassuring for me to know that medical help was close if Kieran or myself required it. But as my labour was normal, and Kieran and I remained well throughout the process, nil medical assistance was needed and I was left to proceed with my birth the way that I had hoped I would, naturally.
Abbi - 30 Mar, 2011

Ezra


Having my baby at the Women's was an awesome experience, and has set the bar very high for any future pregnancies. I was part of the COSMOS program and so was able to form a trusting relationship with three midwives, one of whom was present for my son's birth in October 2010.

I had been apprehensive about how much say I would have during birth and dreaded being told I would need a c-section because my doctor wanted to go on his lunch break. What eventuated was far from that, as the Women's valued the kind of natural birth I wanted. I was not just supported but encouraged in my desire to use natural pain relief and be in a soothing environment. I took my midwife's advice during labour and so my labour went very quickly. Just after I had delivered my son, my husband said to me "That was amazing! When can we do this again?" And you know what? With such great support, the birth was as un-traumatic as possible and I was quite content to consider doing it all again.
Michelle - 17 Mar, 2011

Amanii


I was blessed with my baby girl Amanii Roque-Sied, who was born on July 4th 2009 weighing a tiny 2.2kg. We spent 5 days in hospital waiting for her to put on weight, watching Michael Jackson's funeral for those 5 days!
Marcela - 21 Feb, 2011

Zahlee


My daughter wasn't born at the Women's, but we spent alot of time at the Women's. Zahlee was diagnosed with Parvo virus at 20 weeks and she had a life saving blood transfusion at 21 weeks. We spent several weeks returning to Women's from 4 hours away, and would like to thank all the special staff and doctors who saved our little girl. Zahlee is about to turn 1 and is a healthy active princess.
Rachael - 21 Jan, 2011

Imogen


My daughter Imogen was born at the Women's on 22nd April 2009 at 5.01pm at 37 weeks and 6 days. She weighed 6.8oz -2.6kg.

Prior to her birth, I was flown by air ambulance at 27 and 33 weeks from a small country town to the Women's with pre-term labour. I was diagnosed with Polyhydramnios (too much fluid in the womb). On both occasions the staff were professional and gave me support when I needed it most. I was given steroids at 27 and 33 weeks to help my baby's lungs mature in case she was to arrive early. I ended up being induced on 21st April due to bub not moving. A lot to take on board as a first time mum.

Imogen is now a healthy 20 month old and walking round, although profoundly deaf in her left ear. We are yet to find answers as to why she is deaf in one ear, possibly due to the extra fluid or genetics.
Lys - 3 Jan, 2011

Natalie


I was born at the Royal Women's Hospital in Carlton on the 12th of August, 1979 at about 3pm, weighing about 6lb 8oz and 3 weeks early.

Glad not to be born in Collingwood.
Natalie - 1 Jan, 2011

Kyeran and Zavier


Kyeran and Zavier were born on 10th April 1991 9wks early. Kyeran went straight to NICU and then Zavier was rushed to the Children's NICU. Living in Parkville, my Sister Susan (their mother) spent the first week walking between the Women's to visit and feed Kyeran and the Children's to see Zavier. Zavier had many complications after his birth, has spent a number of nights at the Children's for operations and is now on dialysis due to renal failure.

Now 19 both boys are well adjusted and living in a small country town with their Grandparents following the death of their mother in 2007. Zavier continues treatment for his illness with home dialysis and visits to The Royal Melbourne.
Janelle - 1 Jan, 2011

Tyson and Ryley


My first son Tyson was born at the Carlton location in October 2006 and my second son Ryley was born at the Parkville location in March 2009.
Krystal - 31 Dec, 2010

Jaeya


Jaeya was born in December 2009 after many days of decisions by the obstetricians as to how I should deliver due to my many health issues....we went from initially being induced to deliver naturally to spinal block caesar to epidural caesar to finally deciding on general anaesthetic caesar. Everything went fantastically well and both myself and my precious baby girl were well and healthy.......Can't thank the Royal Women's enough for their wonderful care before and after the birth.....
Nicola - 31 Dec, 2010

Jodie


I was born on the 14th of March 1973. My mum had a placenta previa and I was born about 10 weeks early and spent a couple of months there. I returned to the Women's in 1997 where I worked as a midwife on a casual basis for a few months.
Jodie - 31 Dec, 2010

Brianna


I was born at the Royal Women's on July 13 1988. My sister was born in the same room on September 18 1995!
Brianna - 31 Dec, 2010

Freya Rose


We stayed to have our little girl Freya Rose before moving home to Ireland, I'm so glad because it was an amazingly gentle and empowering experience, not only the birth but the time and care given before and after.

Thank you for making it the best day of my life!
Catherina - 30 Dec, 2010

Xavier Jeffery


After studying and working at the Women's, we decided I'd have our first child there. He was born in September 2008 and despite a complicated and exhausting delivery, we will come back for seconds!
Lauren - 2 Dec, 2010

Taj


Our beautiful boy, Taj, was born 8 weeks early on the 22nd of March this year after I developed severe pre-eclampsia. He weighed 1.496 kg and he spent 2-3 weeks in the NICU/SCBU, the doctors and nurses were amazing and we can never thank all the staff there so much for saving our baby's life. :) He is now 7 months old, about 6.5 kg and a very happy cheeky little man. :D
Lee and Natalie - 30 Oct, 2010

Tenielle and Gavin


I was born at the Royal Women's Hospital in 1986, and my brother in 1991. Apparently when my dad took me in to meet my new little brother, I pointed into one of the birthing rooms and declared "that's the room I was born in."

And I was right!
Tenielle - 11 Oct, 2010

Tom


Both my husband and I were born at the Royal Women's hospital and because of this when we fell pregnant we thought it would be really nice for our first child to be born there too. Alas, our plan was thwarted when our obstetrician announced she doesn't deliver first children at RWH. But never let a little logistical snag get in the way of a dream!

After 12 weeks of hospital bed rest, our little miracle was born at 29 weeks, as a Code Green caesar, at the Royal Women's Hospital, where he remained in NICU for 290 days. Tom went home dependent on oxygen and with an NGT for feeding but the most important thing to remember is, we got to take our beautiful boy home!

As we write this story, Tom only requires oxygen when he sleeps and he has been NGT free since 4 July 2010. Our thanks go out to the wonderful nursing staff and doctors who cared for our son, and especially to his paediatrician, Dr Lisa Fox.
Jen and Andrew - 5 Oct, 2010

Melissa


My daughter Melissa was born at the womens on 16/08/2007 at 29 weeks due to my having severe pre-eccplampsia and HELLP Syndrome. She was 1040grams and spent nearly 8 weeks in the NICU and SCN. To all the doctors and nurses who looked after her a huge big thankyou to you all for your compassion and attention and dedication to her. She is a happy healthy 3 year old now and waiting to start 3 year old kinder next year!
Monique - 17 Sept, 2010

Emma and Lucy


Both of my girls were born at the Women's and both were premature requiring specialist care. Emma was born at 33 weeks on 07/10/2007 and spent a total of 4 weeks in the SCN. Emma is now a beautiful and healthy almost 3 year old who is the sweetest little girl imagineable. Lucy was born at 30 weeks on 24/10/2009 and spent 4 weeks in NICU before passing away on 24/11/2009. We miss Lucy every minute of every day and are very thankful to all of the NICU staff for fighting very hard for Lucy enabling us to have a precious month with her.
Tracey - 15 Sept, 2010

JussB


I had my 2 sons at the Women's, Nicolas was born in July 06, Lucas was born in May 08 and soon we are expecting our 3rd child whom will also be born at the Womens. We found all of the staff @ the Women's to be very friendly, supportive and helpful and our ob Huon O'Sullivan is fantastic.
Justine - 7 Sept, 2010

Rabaani


I feel an incredible bond with the Women's. My daughter Rabaani was born here in October 2008. Though I had some post pregnancy problems, I really cherish my time spent here. The facilities were fantastic and the midwives were so supportive. Now I'm again expecting a baby which I would love to have here.
Manpreet - 7 Sept, 2010

Mark James


I was born on the 2nd of October 1964 and my mum gave me away. 3 months later I was given to my new parents.They took me to Holland when I was 7 years old. In 1986 I started to look for my birthmum and I found her and also sisters and a brother. There is 1 sis missing and has been adopted as well. Her name is I believe Cristine (Cristina?) and she was born between 1962 and Jan 1964. Still looking for her. I live in Holland and have been back several times. Australia is and always will be MY country.
Ron - 26 Aug, 2010

Thomas


I was born at The Royal Womens on 6th July 1970 and was adopted in October the same year.
Then on 27th July 2007, my beautiful son Tom was also born at the Royal Women's.
All the staff were wonderful to us, and they are worth their weight in gold.
Mark - 6 Aug, 2010

Nyree


At 28 weeks pregnant with twins I was rushed from Ballarat to Melbourne after going into early labour. Born 12 weeks early Nyree weighed 2lb 11oz and Nathan 2lb 6oz. Sadly our son passed away 4 days later from a brain haemorrhage. Nyree spent a total of 12 weeks in hospital - 10 of those weeks at the Women's, many times going from the NICU to the Special Care Nursery and then back to the NICU after setbacks such as pneumonia, a staph infection and requiring blood transfusions.

Now nearly 6 years later, Nyree is a happy and healthy little girl, with not one health problem to show for her incredibly rocky start to life. My husband and I could never say just how wonderful the staff at the Women's were. Especially the NICU nurses who never left Nyree (and Nathan's) side and fought for their survival as much as anyone could ask for. The Special Care Nursery staff are a credit to their profession, so much so that we wanted to take a couple home with us when the time came to leave! Our gratitude also goes to the staff of NETS, who safely transported Nyree home to our local hospital. A huge thank you to all.
Yvette - 29 July, 2010

Olivia Rose


My father has worked at the Women's (and Frances Perry House) for many, many years so of course I was born there as was my first child. It is such a special place for me. I remember visiting patients on a Saturday morning with my father when I was very young. Lots of chocolates were consumed by both of us without my Mum knowing! My daughter Olivia was born there very early one morning and it was lovely to hear Dad's infectious laugh down the corridor with the nursing staff when he came to see her for the first time.
Carolyn - 19 July, 2010

Chase Joachim


I had bleeding problems from 12 weeks into pregnancy and was finally hospitalised at the womens at around 21.5 weeks. My son Chase was born 14 weeks early weighing 630 grams, he spent almost 10 weeks in intensive care then moved to special care where he stayed until we brought him home at 4.5 months. The staff at the Women's were amazing they helped me to cope during this journey and encouraged me to do everything with my tiny baby. Chase had a very rough time while in hospital and was very sick. Now he is turning 1 this week and is a bouncing cheeky smart little man. He even has his own song and video on YouTube.
Simone - 12 July, 2010

Olivia


I went into early labor on May 2006 at about 26 weeks (this was stopped by medication). I was taken via ambulance to the Women's. After being in hospital for one week, on Sunday May 28 I gave birth at 26/6wks to a beautiful little girl Olivia Yvonne weighing 792g.

Olivia is now a very healthy and happy 4 year old. My husband and I still now cannot put into words how thankful and grateful we are to all the doctors and nurses that helped keep our daughter alive.

Olivia is a big sister now to Ben, born November 8 2010, Ben was born at full term with no complications.

Thank you for letting us tell our story and thanks for taking the time to read.
Tania & John - 6 July, 2010

Adam


I was admitted to the Women's at age 14 back in the early 80s and was found to have a bicornuate uterus. I had no idea just what the doctors meant when they told me I might have "high-risk" pregnancies if and when I had children.

Our first son Leon was born in East Melbourne on 14 July 2004 at 25 week's gestation and transferred to the Women's NICU. Sadly Leon died on 16 July 2004. I still can't find adequate words to express our gratitude to the Doctors and Nurses who cared for Leon and fought for his short life and for supporting us through the most traumatic period in our lives. How well-cared-for we were by the Women's is a beautiful part of our memory of that terrible time.

Our second son and Leon's little brother Adam was born @ the Women's 25 May 2010. Our care during pregancy, birth and antenatally was exceptional. The Women's enabled us to carry another high-risk pregnancy to term and produce a healthy baby who is currently a happy and healthy, allbeit cheeky, three-year old.
Cathy & Barry - 30 June, 2010

Jack


At 30 weeks, I was flown to Melbourne & taken to the Women's from NE Victoria. The following day I was delivered, producing a tiny baby boy. Jack was 4 pounds 5 ounces & spent 7 days in the NICU & 7 days in the SCN. He was then transfered back to our local hospital for 4 more weeks of hospital care. A huge thanks goes out to everyone at the Women's who made our time there special as we received endless amounts of support & care.
Shannon - 23 June, 2010

Michael Joseph


I was born at the Women's on December 29, 1949. The story from my mother is I was due to be born on Christmas day and my mother was admitted on Christmas Eve. But I didn't arrive...my mother was released on Christmas Day...had a wonderful Christmas alone with my father (my brothers & sisters had been sent to relatives during my impending birth)...I arrived on the 29th weighing 10lb, 13oz (not metric in those days).

I'm now living in Perdido Key, Florida USA having worked in 5 continents and 24 countries as a senior project manager building wireless networks.
Michael - 18 June, 2010

Tom


photo courtesy of the Richmond Football Club
Thomas (Tom) Hafey MBE was born at the Women’s in August, 1931. He had an illustrious career in the VFL/AFL playing for Richmond between 1953 and 1958, and coaching Richmond (to four premierships), Collingwood, Geelong and Sydney between 1966 and 1988. Tom was an inaugural inductee into the AFL Hall of Fame and is still in great demand as a media commentator, coaching adviser and motivational speaker.
The Women's, with permission - 26 May, 2010

Emily


My youngest daughter Emily was born in 2002 at the Women's hospital. I was suffering from pre-eclampsia. She was born 1 pound 5 ounces. I can't thank the Women's enough for the care and attention that they provided for me in the NICU unit and the special care nursery. This is an amazing hospital and the teams that work there are incredible.
Kim - 26 May, 2010

Tracey


I feel an incredible bond with the Women's, I was born here in 1960 and adopted out three weeks later. My adopted sister and two brothers were also born here and I have fond memories of dressing up and going to the hospital to pick up another baby. I later donated eggs to the IVF program here and then had two of my three boys in Frances Perry and my last son in the Women's. And have been working here for the last four years. It is a wonderful hospital which we should all be very proud of.
Tracey - 25 May, 2010

Catherine


I was born at the Royal Women's Hospital on August 20th, 1987. I was and still am the youngest of 5 children. My mother was induced before my due date due to her suffering from pre-eclampsia. I was about 3400g (7.5 pounds in old school!). I am now a registered nurse currently working in newborn intensive and special care at the Women's, and I absolutely love my job. This is an amazing hospital that will continue its reputation as being the leading Victorian hospital for women's and babies health!
Catherine - 19 May, 2010

Michelle


I was born and adopted from the Women's in the early 60's. My birthday often falls on Mother's Day and I also work as a nurse at the Women's now!
Linda - 18 May, 2010

Tomas


I had my first son Tomas at the Women's on May 19, 2005. Me and my husband were living in Melbourne during his postgraduate studies and we chose the Women's to have our first baby. Being Argentinian and a bit homesick, we received from the nurses and midwives all the caring, patience and dedication we needed. We will never forget those long hours, the friendly faces, the comforting advice, the supporting hand. Tomas is turning 5 in a couple of days. Thanks to the Women's for such a wonderful experience!
Florencia - 18 May, 2010

Rosemary


My daughter Rosemary was born at Frances Perry House in 1990. It was my first experience of the Women's, and I remember the good humour and patience of all the nurses and midwives, and the practical support as I established breastfeeding.
Robyn - 17 May, 2010

Simone and Margo


My two daughters were born at Frances Perry House in 1988 and 1990. I was made to stay for a week even though I desperately wanted to go home, a far cry from the short stays these days! I filled in the time by scoffing chocolates and desserts, thanks to breastfeeding I didn't gain any weight! The food was delicious! Now my eldest daughter hopes to start working at the Women's when she finishes her midwifery degree this year.
Helen - 14 May, 2010

Allison


My daughter was born at the Women's hospital October 1991. She was 71/2 pounds. My mum was the first to know of her birth. My daughter is now at RMIT. My sister and I were also born at the Women's hosptal in 1960. She did not know until six weeks before we were born she was having twins. My mum had 2 sets of twins (8 CHILDREN IN 14 YEARS).
Dorothy - 8 May, 2010

Sid


My son Sid was born at the Women's in July 2009 and I felt 100% supported by all staff. The facilities were fantastic (except the overpriced cafe and carpark!!) As a nurse I am hypercritical of health care services but I can honestly say the Women's were exceptional. The antenatal appointment system fitted my time scales and the relaxed atmosphere made my pregnancy an enjoyable experience.
Caroline - 8 May, 2010

Emma


My daughter Emma was born in 2002 at Frances Perry House. I chose to give birth at the Women's knowing that I had all the back up I needed should it be required. Emma was a long awaited addition to our family and has brought us all a great deal of joy. Mother's Day is an opportunity to give thanks and celebrate being a "mother".
Lisa - 6 May, 2010

Anne


I, like my seven siblings, were all born at the Women's and I now work at the Women's!
Anne - 6 May, 2010


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