Mandy Parks, whose second daughter was born with major disabilities caused by cytomegalovirus, reflects on the problems she and her family have had to overcome

Infection with cytomegalovirus (CMV) can have devastating and enduring effects on fetuses. In this article, the parent of a daughter born with several severe disabilities due to the effects of CMV describes her and her family’s life caring for the child. The author discusses the family’s battles to obtain statutory care and the lack of empathy of some healthcare professionals. Permission from family members has been sought and their consent to reproduce their conversations has been given.