Romney Marsh mum’s terror as five-week-old baby turned ‘floppy and blue’ at home

A mum has spoken of the terrifying moment her five-week-old daughter stopped breathing - and thanked the emergency crew who saved her life.

Chloe, from Romney Marsh, was at home when baby Autumn suddenly turned blue, became floppy and was gasping for breath.

She quickly dialled 999 and was connected to emergency medical advisor Rain Gavin.

“In what must have been the scariest moment of her life, Chloe did a fantastic job of providing a clear description of the situation, enabling us to assign resources as quickly as possible,” said Rain.

The call was triaged as a category 1 emergency, prompting crewmates Mandy Nash and Katy Ratchford to rush to the scene - arriving at Chloe’s home within just five minutes.

They were met at the door by Autumn’s big sister, Willow, who bravely let them in. Inside, they found Autumn was very unwell.

Chloe explained that her baby had developed a rash and had been suffering from a cold in the days before.

After examining her, the crew found she was suffering from Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) - a highly contagious infection that affects the nose, throat and lungs, and can be particularly dangerous for babies and older people.

The paramedics managed to stabilise Autumn before taking her to the William Harvey Hospital in Ashford for further emergency treatment.

Thankfully, Autumn made a full recovery, and recently, Chloe and her daughters were invited to the Trust’s Ashford Make Ready Centre for a heartwarming reunion with the trio that helped Autumn on January 23 this year.

“It was fantastic to create a positive ending to what was one of the scariest times in my entire life,” said Chloe.

“I can’t thank them enough for getting help to us as quickly as they did.”

Katy added: “Having the privilege of reuniting with Chloe and her family really made our week,” added Katy. “I’m so glad that Mandy, Rain and I were able to help them and that we all wish them the best for their future.”

RSV is a common cause of bronchiolitis in babies – a chest infection that can lead to serious breathing difficulties and may require hospital treatment.

Parents are urged to call 999 immediately if they spot any signs of breathing problems in their child.