Abbotsford mom has been on ventilator for a month

A month after she was intubated for COVID-19 and her baby was born by emergency C-section, an Abbotsford mom remains in critical condition.

Gillian McIntosh has been in the ICU since Nov. 10, when her health rapidly deteriorated, requiring her to be put on a ventilator. As McIntosh was almost 36 weeks pregnant at the time, doctors decided to deliver her baby.

On Wednesday, McIntosh's sister-in-law, Andrea Hildebrandt, said her condition hasn't improved.

“It is very difficult to post regular updates when there isn't much that is new to report. It can be hard to type those same words day after day and stay positive. We continue to appreciate the amazing team who are caring for Gillian in the Abbotsford Regional Hospital ICU,” she said in an email to Postmedia News.

McIntosh's husband, Dave, continues to hold Zoom calls at his wife's bedside in the hopes that his voice will provide her with reassurance and comfort, said Hildebrandt.

“This is an emotionally difficult thing for a spouse to have to do, but I'm proud of him for doing it. The medical staff have been very clear that the road ahead is a long one. We appreciate their clarity, it helps us to keep our thoughts positive but realistic,” she said.

Hildebrandt added that Gillian's baby boy is “doing just great” and that he has gained a pound since leaving the hospital.

“The midwife and the pediatric doctor have all remarked that he's strong and healthy! He brings an element of joy in a challenging time,” she said.

It's unknown how McIntosh contracted COVID-19. She tested positive on Nov. 6 and was admitted to the Abbotsford hospital a few days later when it became difficult for her to breathe.

“The support and care directed towards and shared within our families during this time of crisis continues to be a beautiful gift,” said Hildebrandt. “Please keep your thoughts and prayers with Gillian, and please keep up the hard work of following all of the provincial COVID-19 guidelines.”

A GoFundMe has been set up to help Dave care for the couple's newborn son and three-year-old daughter, Gemma, while Gillian is in hospital.