In the lead up to giving birth to her fourth child, Rebecca Malley was prepared to expect the unexpected.
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But when an outbreak of COVID-19 forced the closure of the North West Private Hospital, her plans instantly changed.
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Instead of giving birth close to home, the Smithton resident did what many mothers have done over the past few weeks - she gave birth at the Launceston General Hospital.
In the two weeks leading up to Anzac Day there had been 91 babies born at the LGH's Queen Victoria Maternity Unit.
This included Ms Malley's daughter Isla Christina Dawn Goscombe, who came into the world on April 23.
In what she described as a "very unsettling time", Ms Malley said the advice she received in the lead up to giving birth had been changing almost daily.
"We initially had planned to give birth at the NWPH, however in light of the current pandemic was directed by the Tasmanian Health Service to relocate to Launceston in preparation to give birth at the LGH," she said.
"Thankfully we were accommodated to stay at the Mantra Charles Hotel.
"We left as soon as the contractions began arriving at the LGH at 12.30am.
"As I was required to receive antibiotics four prior to giving birth, it was just enough time with her being born that morning at 4.37am."
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Ms Malley said Isla's heartbeat had been elevated during the majority of her labour, but relaxed prior to birth thanks to some fluids and antibiotics.
Fortunately she received plenty of support from the hospital's Women's and Children's Services Unit.
"We had an amazing midwife Gaye. Her experience was evident and reassuring as she made us feel as relaxed and comfortable as possible," Ms Malley said.
"Isla was then monitored for the next 48 hours, checking her heart rate and temperature every two to three hours.
"After receiving all the required newborn checks we finally received the all clear to head home come Anzac Day."
Along with caring for a new baby, Ms Malley has also been kept busy homeschooling her three other children, while her partner is splitting his work from home and on site.
However, she said she couldn't me more grateful for all the support.
"Thank you to all the maternity staff at Launceston General Hospital for taking on all the extra patients from the North-West Coast," she said.
"It has been such a demanding time for you all, yet your support has been unwavering. We are truly grateful."
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