Kentish Gazette Canterbury & District
‘Bloody marvels’ are fighting hard after early arrival
joewalker@thekmgroup.co.uk THE twin girls of Canterbury city councillor Neil Baker are “fighting hard” in a special baby unit after they born 13 weeks early on Sunday.
Each weighing the same as a bag of sugar, Ava Louise and Juno Grace arrived in the world either side of 6am.
Ava Louise was born first, weighing just 2lbs, with Juno Grace following minutes later at 1oz heavier.
They were immediately put on a ventilator and are receiving one-to-one care at Ashford’s William Harvey hospital.
Dad Neil – who was recently convicted of drink driving – says nothing in his life has prepared him for the experience.
The 30-year-old, who lives in St Patrick’s Close, Whitstable, said: “They are tiny, but they are fighting – probably a genetic thing and they’re wondering why they aren’t in Whitstable.
“They’re doing as well as can be expected. It’s been a mad few days, as you can imagine.
“They came in a hurry, but we’re hoping they slowly get ready for the world now they are here. Both were a quarter of the weight I was when I arrived, but they are fighting.
“It’s just a case of waiting and hoping now, though I think it’s fair to say nothing in my life has prepared me for this experience.”
Neil’s partner Emma Dawson wrote on Twitter after the births: “Things I did not expect to do this weekend: Go into labour 13 weeks early and give birth to two tiny but perfect babies this morning.
‘They’re doing as well as can be expected. It’s been a mad few days, as you can imagine’
“Ava made a break for freedom, and insisted that Juno came along for the ride.
“They’re doing well. Each has got one-to-one supervision at all times and staff are happy with their progress so far. They’re so sweet! Still can’t quite believe they’ve arrived!”
She added on Tuesday: “Both babies are doing well and off the ventilators, much to everyone’s surprise. One day at a time, but it’s all looking good.
“They’re bloody marvels! Been screeched at by both of them today for changing their nappies... Loved it.”
Yesterday the girls were said to be a bit jaundiced, with Emma Tweeting: “None the worse for it. They just need to concentrate on growing.”