Introducing Ella

Ella is one of the 87 new babies that were referred to our specialist early intervention service last year. Her parents, David and Lauren share her story.

Ella was born at 39 weeks by assisted delivery with forceps, she was taken to NICU with suspected sepsis the same day.  At 2 days old Ella had a seizure, she had suffered a large bleed on the brain and at this point it was uncertain whether Ella would survive.  

Early intervention was advised following an MRI scan and after 4 weeks in NICU, we brought Ella home. This was a very difficult time for us as a family and whilst we were overjoyed to bring Ella home, we were worried for her future development and what we could do to help her.

Ella’s dad self-referred to Better Start, Better Future before she left the hospital, and Ella had her first consultation just before she was 2 months old. We were unsure what to expect going in, but were made to feel at ease by Glenys, Tash and Gosia. We discussed our concerns and left feeling hopeful.

Each of Ella’s sessions since have been tailored to her development and the exercises have been specific to her needs. Gosia’s expertise and guidance have given us the confidence to carry 
on the exercises and work at home.

Ella also enjoys the Better Start Together playgroup each month, where she explores sensory play, activities and singing.  There’s always something fun to do each time we go. It’s also an opportunity for us to meet other families in a similar situation and to speak with the therapists in between Ella’s sessions.

The support and guidance we have received from the team at Cerebral Palsy Cymru has been excellent. Ella is currently on track with her milestones and Ella’s development is a great example of what early intervention can do.