Annabelle’s story: Staying on Ward 3

Say hello to Annabelle and her dad, Joe, from Worksop.

Two-year-old Annabelle was recently transferred to Sheffield Children’s Ward 3 by the Embrace service to try and work out what was causing her persistent high fever, vomiting and diarrhoea.

Joe said: “Before we arrived at Sheffield Children’s, Annabelle was being treated for suspected PIMS-TS (Paediatric Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome) which is linked to COVID-19.

“We were transferred to Sheffield Children’s as the cause of this reaction was still unknown. The Embrace team were thoroughly accommodating and even help strap me to the bed and transfer us all wrapped up in a cuddle which was the least stressful way to transport my child. Putting the patient first in this manner was truly remarkable.”

On Ward 3, Annabelle had a series of scans – on her heart, kidneys, blood, urine and stool – plus a COVID-19 test before she was diagnosed with a kidney infection because one of her kidneys was a few centimetres larger than the other.

Joe added: “I was impressed by the beautiful modern design and colours. It certainly helped lift my mood and we felt we were in good hands.”

“The team on Ward 3 were very accommodating, often going out of their way to be as quiet as possible so me and my daughter could rest which was a kind gesture.”

Annabelle was treated with intravenous antibiotics for a few more days before her temperature began to settle down.

“When my wife rang me the next morning to say Annabelle had got a good night sleep without needing any further medication and her temperature was normal it was it was one of the highlights of the year so far.”

After being kept in for observation, Annabelle was able to go home – but not before one last round of toast and pot of jelly!

Joe said: “What always amazes me is how quickly things in life can change. All your priorities go out of the window when your kids are sick and to have such an amazing hospital nearby makes me feel truly lucky.

“I work in the field of genetics for a living and I’m often amazed at what we can achieve with modern science but at the heart of it all is still the nurses, doctors and all the other staff that keep Sheffield Children’s running and keep us safe.

“I think positive feedback is not always shared and it is sometimes assumed that people know what a brilliant job they do. I just wanted to say this so that everyone can know how truly appreciative I am as a parent for the care my daughter received.”