Mother’s concert after mystery death of baby Emma aged just 13 days

Published: 5th May, 2011
by TOM FOOT

A WOMAN whose baby daughter died after just 13 days has organised a classical music concert and fund-raising campaign in her memory.

Sasha Pavlovich is still searching for a definitive answer over what caused little Emma to pass away suddenly and unexpectedly in the A&E department of University College Hospital London in Euston in February 2008. 

But the 34-year-old researcher, who lives in King’s Cross, said she wanted to “give a little back” to the “remarkable” NHS staff who tried to save her baby and to a charity that helps parents to cope with grief.

English National Opera and Royal Opera House musicians and singers – including the internationally acclaimed dramatic contralto Liane Keegan – are booked to perform at the event in Goodenough College at Mecklenburgh Square, King’s Cross, on May 12.

Speaking about the concert, Ms Pavlovich said: “It started off quite small, but it has developed into something that has exceeded our hopes and expectations. The event will now take place in the Great Hall.

“Emma was a well baby. We don’t know the reason, and that is one of the hardest things about it. But it is what it is. Our search is still continuing with UCLH and Great Ormond Street Hospital.

“It is important to raise awareness of bereavement issues, and engage all levels of medical staff in supporting and advocating for those families who have lost a very loved and much wanted baby, either through pregnancy loss or neonatally.”

Ms Pavlovich, who is a member of Goodenough College, a postgraduate student residence, praised the kindness of UCLH staff who fought to save Emma that “dreadful morning”.

She said: “In the midst of our overwhelming grief and pain, the kindness and support of friends, family and hospital staff enveloped our little family – keeping us gently but firmly afloat.

“I think about Emma all the time. The kindness shown by the remarkable A&E and neonatal teams, who desperately tried to resuscitate Emma, is something we will never forget. 

“It would be lovely to give a little something back.”

Ms Pavlovich, whose four-year-old son was born at the same hospital, described her pregnancy with Emma as “beautifully average and routine”.

She added: “We’ve been fortunate to receive many lovely items for our silent auction from shops and business, including dinners, pamper packages, wine, books, and even private tours of Westminster Abbey and the Royal Opera House. There’s definitely something for everyone.” 

Funds raised will be donated to the UCLH neonatal unit and the Butterfly Pregnancy Loss Fund.

Kara Gelb, UCLH women’s health divisional manager, said: “Our ability to support families in the most difficult of times is key to ensuring the best possible outcome for a family facing such unfortunate loss.”

• Tickets (£14 and £7 concessions) are available for the charity concert, All Through the Night, at www.goodenough.ac.uk/allthroughthenight.html