Cradling her grandson, Kaden, as she rocked him gently, People’s National Movement (PNM) operation’s officer Irene Hinds yesterday promised to act as a guardian angel to her daughter's two children. Her daughter, Kellane Hinds, died at the Port-of-Spain General Hospital on Monday hours after undergoing an emergency Caesarian-section.
Questioned about the matter yesterday, Health Minister Terrence Deyalsingh said he had not yet been presented with the facts in the case but a report was expected to be completed within the next 24 to 48 hours. Deyalsingh, who visited Hinds on Tuesday, said then that once the hospital delivers its final report, the ministry would conduct its own and to ensure that international guidelines were followed.
An investigation was launched after it was reported that the woman had been coughing up blood. Her mother said the family was informed her daughter had fluid in her lungs and her blood might have started clotting. Singing the hymn, I Would Love You with the Love of the Lord, tears rolled down Hinds' face as she gazed upon the baby who remained asleep, secure in her arms.
Standing outside the entrance of the Maternity Department at the Port-of-Spain General Hospital around 11 am yesterday, Hinds, who was accompanied by family members and close friends of her daughter, vowed to ensure the well-being of her two grandchildren.
She said her daughter was the one who chose the baby's name. Hinds pointed to grand-daughter Kimora, who appeared to be in good spirits, when she was asked how the little girl was coping with her mother's death. Pressed to say what the autopsy results had revealed, Hinds said they were informed it was "pending histology."
Asked to explain what that meant, she indicated she too was unaware. She said her priority now was her two grandchildren, Kaden and Kimora. "I am going to take care of Kaden, Kimora and bury Kellane on Friday," she said, before leaving for her Cocorite home.
Other C-section deaths:
• Keisha Ayers — April — Mt Hope Women's Hospital.
• Sharlene Kowlessar — April — San Fernando General Hospital.