ABOUT THIS EPISODE
What happens when your full-term baby suddenly becomes critically ill within days — and you’re told they need emergency heart surgery?
In this episode of Nicu&You, Belle Stevenson speaks with Leslie and William about their son Ralph’s journey through a diagnosis of coarctation of the aorta, a serious congenital heart condition that often appears after birth, when everything initially seems normal.
From the shock of sudden deterioration, to the emotional rollercoaster of emergency surgery with just 45 minutes’ notice, this conversation captures the fear, urgency, and disbelief that so many NICU and cardiac families know all too well.
Leslie and William share what it was like navigating intensive care, watching their baby undergo life-saving surgery, and trying to hold on to calm in an environment filled with uncertainty, monitors, and relentless beeping. They also reflect on how anxiety affected them differently, how it impacted their wider family, and how support systems like the Children’s Heartbeat Trust NI helped them through.
This episode also explains coarctation of the aorta in clear, parent-friendly language, helping listeners understand what it means, why it can be so serious, and how treatment can lead to positive outcomes.
Most importantly, this is a story of fear, resilience, teamwork, and hope — and a reminder that even in the most frightening moments, families are stronger than they realise.
💛 Things can change quickly — but so can outcomes. Take it one day at a time.
🎧 Listen now for a powerful story of NICU care, heart surgery, and survival.
