Coma girl and baby 'doing well'

MELANIE DOUGLAS, the teenage coma victim, and her new-born daughter are both making good progress, according to doctors at Birmingham maternity hospital, writes Mary Braid.

Ms Douglas, 19, who went into a coma six months ago after being hit by a car, gave birth on Saturday. Her baby was born by Caesarean section, nine weeks premature. The coma began to lift a few weeks ago and the operation was carried out after tests showed prompt intervention was necessary to ensure the baby's safety.

Yesterday, the baby, weighing 4lbs 7oz, was in an incubator at the hospital's neonatal unit. Dr Mike Hocking, consultant paediatrician, said she was in good condition but could stay in intensive care for up to two weeks. Ms Douglas is recovering well.

Doctors discovered Ms Douglas was pregnant after the road accident near her home. She is now semi-conscious and can recognise familiar voices, but can only communicate with facial expressions.

(Photograph omitted)