by Michele

I was born 11 weeks prematurely (just under three months early to sound more dramatic).

I weighed just two pounds and three ounces and was 16 inches in length. My weight fluctuated up and down a lot, the lowest I went to was one pound 13 ounces.

When I was born, I was very bruised as I was so small and fragile. At first I wasn't even breathing, fortunately I started breathing (after having oxygen shoved into my lungs).

My mum didn't even know whether she had given birth to a boy or a girl. The doctor took me away to the special baby care unit. My mum asked the doctor if I was going to be OK and he told her that some premature babies live and some babies die (which is not very nice to hear if you are a first-time, 20 year old mum).

I had to stay in hospital for 11 weeks until I was eventually allowed home. When I was four years old I found out that I was partially deaf as a result of being born prematurely. I now have to wear a hearing aid every day, but I appreciate the fact that I am still alive today! I fought to be here and I am going to really make something of my life.

This story may have been edited by Children First for Health for editorial and confidentiality reasons only.

For more help and information:

• Bliss
• Baby Centre

Copyright © Great Ormond Street Hospital