Following the tragic loss of her infant daughter just 8 days after delivery, Abigail Hensley aims to raise awareness about the virus that led to her daughter’s death.
Every new parent strives to shield their newborn baby with all their might.
However, there are unforeseen moments when something as innocuous as a kiss from a family member can lead to devastating consequences.
This was the heartbreaking reality for Abigail Hensley, who mourned the loss of her daughter within 8 days of her birth.
Back in 2018, Abigail went to the hospital to give birth to her first child.
She shared with Café Mom that she was overjoyed to finally meet her little miracle and eagerly anticipated embracing motherhood.
âTears streamed down my face when I laid eyes on her for the first time and heard her cry. I instantly fell in love with my perfect little baby,â she expressed.
âI was adamant about no one kissing her.â
Their daughter, named Aliza, was in good health upon birth.
However, things took a drastic turn about a day and a half later, as Aliza suddenly fell ill.
âBefore she fell ill, I didn’t mind people holding her, but I was firm about not allowing anyone to kiss her,â Abigail recounted to CafĂ© Mom.
Aliza displayed fatigue, inadequate feeding, and low blood sugar levels. Her condition deteriorated, and after around two days, they had to seek treatment at a larger hospital.
Impacted by HSV-1
Initially, doctors suspected a blood issue, but it soon became apparent that Aliza was grappling with a more grave situation.
She exhibited swelling and severe discomfort.
It was later revealed that she had contracted HSV-1, which is the herpes virus responsible for cold sores.
As stated on 1177, this can pose a significant threat to newborns.
âThis has been the most petrifying and traumatic encounter I’ve ever faced. While cold sores are common, the idea of babies contracting it, let alone it being fatal, was completely new to me,â revealed Abigail.
Passed away shortly after birth
The exact moment Aliza contracted the virus remains unclear, but medical professionals believe it occurred within her first or second day of life.
Regrettably, Aliza’s condition worsened, and the treatment proved ineffective.
Her breathing became labored, and on the 8th day post her birth, Aliza departed in her mother’s arms.
âI sang âYou Are My Sunshineâ as she drifted to sleep. The only way I can describe it is that it shattered my soul. I can still hear the nurses’ words reverberating in my mind when they conveyed the news of her passing,â Abigail shared.
Parents issue a warning
Aliza contracted the virus from someone who hadn’t thoroughly washed their hands before holding her, or from someone who disregarded their request not to kiss her.
>The grieving parents now seek to heighten awareness and caution others about this peril.
âIf another child’s life can be spared due to Aliza’s tragedy, then her passing won’t be in vain. Contrary to common misconceptions, itâs crucial for everyone to grasp that HSV-1 is distinct from STD herpes (HSV-2), meaning the virus can be unknowingly carried without an STD present. Let’s work together to save lives by spreading our story and refraining from kissing babies. Always sanitize your hands before touching a newborn and refrain from kissing them,â she implored CafĂ© Mom.
Below, you’ll find a similar tragic account of an infant who succumbed to the same condition.
May the little angel rest in peace.
Share this article with your loved ones to help spread this crucial message!
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