DAY 2 - 24 October:

Michelle: Today was a wonderful day. Michael brought Rachel for another visit with Conor, she just wanted to touch him and look at him. My heart overflowed seeing our daughter’s reaction to him, and to see my husband holding both our children. It was like a moment stood still in time. We had a few other visitors, but spent the day mostly resting and getting to know each other.

Michael: One tries to keep the routine going at home, getting Rachel dressed and to school, then back to hospital to see how the rest of the family is doing. All check-ups on both are passed with flying colours.

My parents arrive are we have a celebratory toast. The whirlwind first few days of a having a baby are catching up, and I collapse into a deep sleep, hoping that all are sleeping well.