Fiona Paddon appeared on ITV’s This Morning today to talk about the loss of her baby, Edward, as a result of group B Strep infection and her campaign to prevent the same happening to other Mums. She talked about her change.org/GBS petition and spoke very movingly about what had happened, and her heartbreak.
Philip Schofield and Holly Willoughby were clearly shocked that not only are pregnant women not told about group B Strep, but also that such a simple test for group B Strep carriage – the ECM test – is not available on the NHS. Dr Chris Steele provided all the key information, including how other countries routinely test pregnant women. There was just time for Dr Chris to explain that tests are available privately for under £40 (see here).
It was fabulous awareness raising and, as a result, more babies will be protected from group B Strep infection – and that’s got to be good news.
“Fiona spoke so clearly and movingly – being informed about group B Strep is so important when you’re pregnant, and knowing whether you are carrying GBS in your pregnancy can make all the difference. Fiona, Holly, Philip & Dr Chris will have made so many families aware of group B Strep and that’s brilliant.”
