By the time Nathaniel arrived in June 2020, we were already exhausted. It had been a long summer of bushfires and smoke during Jacqui’s early pregnancy. And then the COVID-19 pandemic hit. Jacqui developed perinatal depression and anxiety. This condition affects up to 1 in 5 mothers and 1 in 10 fathers.

With borders closed, and no family in the ACT, the Perinatal Wellbeing Centre became a critical part of our support system. Jacqui was able to access a day support group, telephone counselling, and a mums-and-bubs yoga group with other mums attending the centre. Jakob attended training with other partners to learn how to better support Jacqui and Nathaniel.

We’re now five years on and Jacqui and Nathaniel’s connection is stronger than ever. Jacqui regards her bond with Nathaniel as the most difficult and most rewarding challenge of her life.

The Perinatal Wellbeing Centre provides life changing, and possibly life saving, support services to women and babies in the ACT. Please help Jacqui and Nathaniel celebrate their birthday and birthing day, by helping other mums and bubs just like them.

Jacqui Mayer