Baby’s Umbilical Cord Wrapped Around Her Neck During Labor. Moments Later, the Mom Nearly Died on the Operating Table (Exclusive)

**Staten Island Woman Transforms Trauma into Support for New Mothers Through Nonprofit Initiative**

In the wake of her own harrowing birthing experience, Alexsis Gilles has founded a nonprofit aimed at supporting mothers who have faced similar challenges. This initiative, named The Post Care, stems from Gilles’ struggle with postpartum anxiety and obsessive-compulsive disorder following a traumatic emergency C-section during a high-risk pregnancy.

Gilles, a licensed social worker based in Staten Island, fondly recalls the moment she discovered she was expecting her first child, describing the news as a “wonderful surprise.” After being advised that conception might be difficult for her, the news of her pregnancy felt “incredibly meaningful” and sparked a hopeful anticipation for motherhood.

Despite her initial excitement, Gilles’ pregnancy was fraught with complications from the outset. She experienced hyperemesis gravidarum, a condition causing severe nausea that impeded her ability to function daily. As the pregnancy progressed, she encountered additional complications such as gestational diabetes, necessitating meticulous blood sugar monitoring and insulin administration several times a day. Gilles was under the close care of a high-risk obstetrician and underwent regular non-stress tests to ensure the well-being of both herself and her baby.

As her expected due date approached, medical professionals recommended an induced labour due to the risks associated with her gestational diabetes. Gilles was initially advised to induce at just 34 weeks but was eventually allowed to postpone the process until she reached 37 weeks gestation. However, once the induction began, the situation quickly turned critical. Gilles began to experience severe distress during labour, resulting in the urgent need for an emergency C-section.

The delivery itself revealed further complications; the umbilical cord was wrapped tightly around her daughter EllaRae’s neck multiple times. Following her birth, Gilles learned that EllaRae had to be rushed to the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) for immediate care, adding to her stress during an already overwhelming time. Tragically, Gilles also faced a life-threatening situation when she began haemorrhaging on the operating table, a complication believed to be linked to the high dose of Pitocin administered during her labour.

In that critical moment, Gilles was in and out of consciousness, fully aware that something was amiss but unsure of the severity of her condition. With swift medical intervention, Gilles’ life was saved, and the haemorrhage was controlled. However, the emotional toll and physical recovery that followed were substantial.

After spending a harrowing 26 hours without seeing her daughter, Gilles finally connected with EllaRae through a FaceTime call, a moment charged with emotion. Although EllaRae’s NICU stay lasted just three to four days, the experience felt extended due to the anxiety surrounding their separation.

Upon being discharged from the hospital, Gilles received minimal postpartum support beyond a standard six-week follow-up appointment. She felt the absence of additional resources greatly, navigating her recovery alone while dealing with rising issues of postpartum anxiety and OCD. It was not until seven months postpartum that she found relief through antidepressants and EMDR therapy, illustrating the ongoing challenges she faced.

In May 2024, harnessing her experiences, Gilles established The Post Care to provide a supportive outlet for mothers grappling with birth trauma. Initially conceived as an informal community for women, this initiative quickly evolved into structured support groups and various resources. The organisation aims to foster a safe space where mothers can engage in honest discussions about their experiences and connect through shared challenges.

Since its inception, The Post Care has blossomed into a not-for-profit organisation offering care packages and gifts for mothers, alongside community events designed to promote healing and emotional support. Gilles is resolutely focused on alleviating the feelings of isolation that can accompany traumatic birth experiences, working tirelessly to ensure that mothers feel heard and valued throughout their postpartum journeys.

As of May 2026, The Post Care is expanding its reach from its New York City base, with plans to establish connections and support systems in additional states. Gilles emphasises the significance of this community-driven work, stating that the need for such support extends beyond geographic boundaries.

In reflecting on her journey, Gilles credits her husband for his unwavering support. “None of this would have been possible without the love and assistance of my daughter and my husband,” she asserts. He has stood by her side throughout this transformative process, from collecting donations to offering emotional support for mothers in need.

Through The Post Care, Gilles has not only channeled her own trauma into a powerful support network but has also created a lifeline for mothers facing similar trials, proving that healing and community are both achievable, even in the darkest times.