22 Nov 2017 Cobram Courier, Cobram VIC (General News) by Kenji Sato By Kenji Sato A Cobram woman who gave birth while she was in a coma has woken up. After three months in intensive care at The Alfred Hospital in Melbourne, Sarah Hawthorn is now in a stable condition. Ms Hawthorn, 33, became critically ill when she was struck down by influenza during the late stages of her pregnancy. Ms Hawthorns son was delivered five weeks premature during an emergency birth on August 28, but is reported to be fit and healthy. Ms Hawthorns sister-in-law Rachel Holt set up a gofundme page for the family. The page hit its target of $20 000 in less than a day and has since raised more than $30 000. We have been overwhelmed by the support and concern shown for our family, Ms Holt said. Her baby boy has never had the chance to lay with his mum, snuggle into her chest or hear her infectious laugh. If nothing less, we hope this raises awareness of the high risk of the flu during pregnancy. Ms Hawthorns story received national coverage from media outlets including the ABC and the If nothing less, we hope this raises awareness of the high risk of the flu during pregnancy.? Rachel Holt Herald Sun and The Australian newspapers. Ms Hawthorns influenza attack took place during one of the worst flu seasons in living memory. Member for Northern Victoria Jaclyn Symes said it had been a tough year for Victorian hospitals, which recorded more than 14 000 flu cases, some of which were fatal. Hospitals across Victoria, including here in northern Victoria, have been feeling the pressure this flu season, Ms Symes said. This flu season has hit us hard and every single one of our public hospitals in country Victoria has been working overtime so Victorians can continue to have access to the care they need when they need it. Licensed by Copyright Agency. You may only copy or communicate this work with a licence.