Arlo's Backstory

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In loving memory of
Arlo Andrew Starling
22.01.2017

Arlo was Still-born at 25 weeks and 1 on the 22nd of January 2017. He was 1lbs 5oz and he was perfect. A few days before his birth I had gone to a walk-in center as I was having pains but was told it was normal and to go home, no one checked my notes or examined me. As Arlo was my first baby I trusted this doctors advice and went home.

On the 21st of January I was sent to hospital because the pain was getting so bad. I then found out I was in labour and that I was 10cms and there wasn't much that could be done. The choice was made to do a C-section due to some complications that were arising but because of the way Arlo was lay in my belly and they way I would of needed to of been cut I would of lost my womb. After the theatre was set up I was rushed to try and save my son's life. By the time I had got on the theater bed Arlos feet and legs had come out. Everything happened so fast, doctors rushing, forceps, concern on everyone faces. When Arlo was born he was rushed to the other side of the room, I had no idea if he was ok or what was happening untill the baby doctor came to me and said "I'm sorry there isn't anything else we can do, we are going to take the tubes out now". I couldn't believe what was happening, I wanted to scream at them to keep trying and to get him to breath. They asked me if I wanted to hold him and handed him to me. I remember looking at his beautiful little face and cute button nose and thinking that this little boy was mine and he will forever be my baby. Every moment after felt like it was in slow motion. My placenta had ruptured at some point from the room we was in to the theater.

He was born at 4:24 on the 22nd of January. I believe Arlo knew he wasn't going to make it so he wanted to save my womb, he is my hero and the bravest boy I know. There isn't a day that goes by where I don't think of Arlo and wish he was here with me. I miss him so much and love him endlessly.