First-time mother dies in labour, newborn son survives and returns home
Chelsea McGillivray suffered a sudden cardiac event during delivery and died, while her baby Tommy was rescued and discharged two days later.
Chelsea McGillivray, a 31-year-old expecting her first child, experienced an unexpected cardiac episode during labour at Queen Elizabeth University Hospital in Glasgow and could not be resuscitated despite immediate CPR. Her partner Jack and mother were present when she was transferred to a birthing bed, where she suddenly collapsed. Medical staff delivered the baby, Tommy, who was monitored in the neonatal intensive care unit before being released home healthy two days later.
Lorna McGillivray, her sister-in-law, said the family is coping with alternating moments of grief and laughter, holding onto Tommy as a source of comfort. A fundraiser has collected over £85,000 to support Jack while he cares for his son and grieves. NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde expressed condolences to the family.
Why it matters
The story highlights the sudden risks of childbirth and the community support needed for families after such tragedies.
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