Accrington mum allowed to hold premature daughter for the first time (From Lancashire Telegraph)

Accrington mum allowed to hold premature daughter for the first time

8:00am Friday 9th March 2012 in Hyndburn By Vanessa Cornall, Crime reporter

A YOUNG mum whose premature baby girl is fighting for life in hospital has been able to hold her daughter for the first time.

Romi-Jane Young, 24, from Accrington, gave birth to Sienna-Rose eight weeks early on February 9.

The tiny tot was born by caesarean section at Burnley General Hospital weighing just 3lb 1oz.

But at just four-weeks-old the youngster, who had to undergo life-saving surgery to remove part of an infected bowel, has been able to have her first a cuddle with her Mummy and Nannie.

Romi, an administrator at Accrington and Rossendale College, said: “It was absolutely amazing to hold her in my arms for the first time.

“It was such a special moment that I will always cherish.

“I am still having to take everyday as it comes as her condition is always changing. Today her infection count is a lot higher than yesterday so that is a concern but we will get there.

“Sienna-Rose isn’t moving much either at the moment which is worrying the doctors, but she has been very poorly and is holding a lot of water.”

The tot also had another first this week when she opened her eyes for the first time.

Former Accrington Carnival Queen Romi, of Marlborough Road, Accrington said: “With Sienna-Rose opening her eyes it has really changed her whole face.

“Because of all the tubes it has difficult to see her properly, so now she is opening her eyes it is lovely.

“I’m loving being able to bond with her.”

The Hyndburn community has rallied round to help the 25-year-old mum after Sienna-Rose was born early because of concerns for her slow growth in the womb.

Fundraising events have been taking place to help Romi and her family pay the travelling costs to St Mary’s Hospital, in Manchester where the tot is being treated.