Xanthia Laidlaw

Xanthia is a mother to one miracle baby. During pregnancy, her daughter was diagnosed in utero with a congenital diaphragmatic hernia, requiring ongoing monitoring throughout the remainder of her pregnancy before delivering at term at The Canberra Hospital. Following her daughter’s birth, she was intubated in the delivery room by a well-prepared medical team and underwent surgery to repair the hernia on her third day of life. She then spent three weeks in the NICU before going home with an NG tube, bypassing the Special Care Nursery.

Before becoming a mother, Xanthia worked and studied in paediatric allied health. Today, with her daughter now thriving, she is focused on cherishing every moment spent growing, loving, and supporting her after such a challenging start to life.

Xanthia is incredibly grateful for the support she received through the Miracle Babies NurtureProgram at Canberra Hospital. She especially valued connecting with other families whose babies were experiencing similar journeys.