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Couple's 'miracle baby' arrives after six-year fertility struggle

After years of heartache and treatment, and with no more embryos remaining, Natasha and Kieran Lawler welcomed their 'miracle' daughter Olive into the world.

Kieran, Natasha and Olive Lawler
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Kieran, Natasha and Olive Lawler

The big picture: The Lawlers' journey to parenthood was fraught with challenges, setbacks, and moments of despair. But their story is also one of hope and perseverance.

  • Natasha and Kieran were given just a 5% chance of conceiving naturally due to medical conditions.

  • Their six-and-a-half-year journey involved multiple rounds of IVF, financial sacrifices, and the heartbreak of a miscarriage.

  • Against all odds, their final embryo resulted in a successful pregnancy.

A premature birth: Baby Olive arrived unexpectedly early at just 27 weeks, weighing a mere 540g and thrusting her parents into a new world of uncertainty.

"We didn't expect her so soon so didn't have anything ready and hadn't bought anything," the couple shared, highlighting the shock of Olive's early arrival.

Baby Olive in the neonatal unit
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Olive weighed just 540g at birth – about the same weight as three hamsters

On the support of NHS staff: Throughout their ordeal, the Lawlers found strength in the unwavering support of the staff at Ipswich Hospital.

Kieran expressed their gratitude: "We couldn't be happier she's here and we are so grateful to every single member of the team who has supported us at Ipswich Hospital. They've all been amazing."

The journey home: After weeks of specialised care, including time spent at Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital, Olive was finally strong enough to return to Ipswich Hospital. On 13 September, weighing considerably more than her birth weight, she was discharged, albeit on oxygen.

Olive and her parents on their way home
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Olive and her parents on their way home

Natasha reflected on their hospital stay: "It felt a little like we'd moved into Ipswich Hospital but we couldn't have asked for better care from everyone. We can't wait to be a proper family at home."

The bottom line: Their experience sheds light on the emotional rollercoaster faced by couples struggling with fertility issues and the crucial role hospital staff play in supporting families through their toughest moments.

Their long-awaited 'miracle baby' Olive is now home, marking the beginning of a new chapter for this resilient and happy family.

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All About Hearing , Ipswich School and ICS

Russell Osman having his ears checked by All About Hearing audiologist and co-director, Karen Finch

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All About Hearing , Ipswich School and ICS

Russell Osman having his ears checked by All About Hearing audiologist and co-director, Karen Finch

Exceptional hearing care with a personal touch

Suffolk’s independent hearing specialists, combining expert care, cutting-edge technology and personalised service to help you hear at your best.
The ICS team outside their offices in Henley, just outside Ipswich

ICS

Founded in 1998, ICS has been the trusted IT partner to businesses across Ipswich and Suffolk for over a quarter of a century.
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