Never Give Up

The First Breath by Olivia Gordon is a powerful book exploring the area of fetal medicine and care for the babies in the neo natal unit. As well as examining various disabilities and the procedures and care involved. It is a heart wrenching book. The bravery of the parents is astounding. The skills of the medical professionals immense. The fight in the babies enormous.

Olivia Gordon had a premature son, Joel in 2011. He has had his fair share of health problems to overcome. It is Joel who prompted Olivia Gordon to look into and explore the world of fetal medicine.

The whole book is fascinating. The medical advances in my lifetime are huge. I take my hat off to the health professionals with their skills and knowledge.

The book includes not only Olivia Gordon’s experiences but also the personal stories of others. At the end of the book, we catch up with the children to learn how they are now doing.

What really comes across is the resilience of the parents. They fight for their babies every step of the way as they face huge challenges even before birth.

Society has thankfully moved on from the 1950’s where people with disabilities were hidden from the world in institutions. I worked for many years as a learning support assistant for special needs in the local high school. These children are amazing – they are brave as they face challenges daily, they are strong and they are uncomplaining, doing even the hardest tasks with a smile.

We must never forget that the children with disabilities are still children. They want to laugh and play and learn.

The First Breath was such a powerful read. I want to leave you with this thought:

“He’s not a list of characteristics in a textbook, he’s my child.”

I received this book for free. A favourable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.

JULIA WILSON

This book is due out 13th June 2019 but you can pre-order on Amazon UK now.