A mother who experienced a stillbirth expressed her distress over having her severe symptoms disregarded as insignificant by NHS hospital staff. Despite the tragic loss of her baby boy, Natasha Anderson, 34, and her partner Nicholas Harewood, 38, maintained their parental feelings. The couple, residing in Didcot, South Oxfordshire, eagerly anticipated the arrival of their child, preparing by decorating the nursery and bonding with the baby in utero.
Natasha reported persistent vomiting, recurrent UTIs, and visual disturbances during her pregnancy, but medical professionals at John Radcliffe Hospital in Oxford downplayed her concerns. It was not until December 2025 that tests revealed high blood pressure, protein in urine, and elevated creatinine levels, leading to a pre-eclampsia diagnosis on December 17.
Tragically, their son, Arlo Huxley Harewood, passed away in the womb just two days after the diagnosis, prompting an induced delivery at 32 weeks. The couple believes that earlier investigation of Natasha’s symptoms could have led to an earlier pre-eclampsia diagnosis and potential intervention.
Nicholas expressed his anguish over the missed opportunity to save their baby, reflecting on the moment of Arlo’s birth. The couple had joyfully anticipated their baby’s arrival after Natasha surprised Nicholas with the pregnancy news in June 2025. They lovingly prepared for their son’s arrival, with Nicholas transforming the spare room into a nursery and sharing tender moments reading to the baby in utero.
Despite Natasha’s ongoing severe symptoms, which included vomiting, headaches, and UTIs, medical staff reassured her that all was well. It was not until mid-December that her deteriorating condition led to hospitalization and a pre-eclampsia diagnosis, characterized by high blood pressure, kidney stress, and protein in urine.
Pre-eclampsia, a condition known for its symptoms like headaches, vision issues, and high blood pressure, can only be cured by delivering the baby. UTIs during pregnancy can heighten the risk of pre-eclampsia, a fact that was not communicated to Natasha during her treatment.
Following the devastating loss of their baby, Natasha and Nicholas faced the heart-wrenching task of saying goodbye to Arlo. The couple, determined to honor their son’s memory, held a funeral in January 2026. Despite their grief, they expressed a desire to have another child in the future, albeit with concerns about potential pregnancy complications.
The couple’s story sparked public attention, leading to scrutiny by healthcare providers. The NHS and South Central Ambulance Service expressed condolences and signaled a thorough review of the case. Meanwhile, Nicholas and Natasha embarked on a fundraising campaign for the charity Action on Pre-eclampsia to raise awareness and support others facing similar challenges.
As they navigate their grief and strive to create a new normal, Nicholas and Natasha hold on to memories of their brief time with Arlo, cherishing the moments they shared as a family.