At my first ultrasound, they diagnosed me as having a low-lying placenta and a blood clot near-by. We were told we had nothing to worry about because the blood clot was tiny and that by 20 weeks, the placenta should move up higher. At my 20 week ultrasound, the placenta had moved higher and I no longer had the risks associated with the low-lying placenta. I asked the technician about the blood clot-and she told me that she couldn't see anything to worry about.

I didn't stop worrying then though. I had an urging feeling that something was wrong – including having nightmares. At my last dr appointment, I asked for another ultrasound because I had a feeling that something was wrong. He looked at my chart and said that it would not be necessary.

My first child was born via c-section at 37 weeks so I was expecting an early delivery for this baby as well. My dr said that we were good to go-if my water broke, and then they would just do a c-section when I came in to the hospital. As it turned out, I had a scheduled c-section for 38 weeks.

I was pretty sick throughout this pregnancy; I was vomiting along the entire way – if I even missed one dose of diclectin. So, on my Dr's orders, I actually stopped working at 6 months. I was able to rest and I slept as much as I possibly could during the last 4 months of my pregnancy… this was a blessing in disguise.

Our daughter, Ava James Elizabeth Britten was born on November 9, 2007. Right after the delivery, we heard a lot of commotion in the operating room. Doctors were asking nurses to get the cameras. We didn't know what was going on. Once the placenta was removed, our doctor came around the curtain and explained that we had a miracle baby. My doctor went on to explain everything to my husband, including showing him the placenta.

At my six-week post natal appointment, we were informed that the placenta had been sent on for further research for vasa previa.

This has affected us immensely, not a day goes by that we don't think we are extremely lucky to have her. In addition to informing all of our friends and family, we are currently looking into planning a walk in Ottawa to let even more people become aware of this condition.

Thank you for reading our story,

~ Julia and Andrew Britten