WHEN first time mum Helen Murton’s plans to have a natural birth went wrong, she had her anaesthetist to thank for making sure her baby son was delivered safely.

The 42-year-old was rushed into surgery for an emergency caesarean section at the John Radcliffe Hospital in July when doctors discovered her pelvis was angled in such a way that a natural birth was too dangerous.

Anaesthetist Sally-Anne Shiels was on hand to talk her and partner Mark Worley through the procedure and help deliver Eric, who is now a happy and healthy three-month-old.

Ms Murton was so touched by the personal care she received from Dr Shiels that she has nominated her for the Oxford Mail Hospital Heroes award.

The property management company director said: “The consultant said my pelvis was angled in a way that would not allow a natural delivery.

“They tried forceps but by the time I was transferred to theatre for an emergency caesarean section at about 11.30pm on July 10 I had spent more than 39 sleepless hours under midwife care.

“There were times when there was not much information being given to us but Sally-Anne was really good at helping us and updating us on what was going on.”

“She was able to reassure me about her own experiences with a caesarean.

“While all the theatre staff were exemplary in their roles in ensuring the safe delivery of Eric, Sally-Anne’s presence in the room conveyed an invaluable sense of calm.”

Just 20 minutes after she went into the operating theatre Ms Murton gave birth to Eric, who weighed 8lb 4oz.

The Henley resident said she was also grateful to Dr Shiels and the team for paying special attention to other aspects of Eric’s birth.

She said: “They made sure we had a camera when we went in to theatre and they took photos as soon as Eric arrived, so we have those great memories.

“We might not have otherwise had that because taking a camera in with you is not top of your priority list when you are being rushed off to theatre.”

The next morning, Dr Shiels came to see Ms Murton and Eric in the observation ward before her shift ended, allowing the new mum to say thank-you for what she had done to help.

Ms Murton said: “I would like to nominate her for the Hospital Heroes awards as I imagine that anaesthetists rarely get credit where it is due, as their patients are usually sedated or asleep.

“I feel fortunate to have had such an authentic and excellent care experience and consider that Sally-Anne’s excellent approach to patient care warrants recognition.

“Had she not been there Eric and I would not be here now.”

Dr Shiels said: “It was a lovely surprise to be nominated for this award. I’m extremely grateful and touched to be acknowledged by Helen and Mark.”

* There is still time to thank your Hospital Hero. To nominate, go to oxfordmail.co.uk/news/hospitalheroes/nominations/