Beyond medical care, IOM Greece also provided guidance every step of the way – supporting Suzanne’s transition into motherhood.
“I learned how to breastfeed, how to care for my newborn baby, and how to respond to her needs,” she explains.
After giving birth, Suzanne continued to receive advice, particularly on her daughter’s development and vaccinations. This continuity of care helped her feel informed and supported as a new mother, even while living far from her family.
Being far from home and separated from loved ones was not easy. Suzanne experienced moments of fear, loneliness and doubt. But having people who listened, cared and stood beside her throughout her pregnancy made all the difference. Their presence helped her feel less alone and more confident in navigating motherhood in an unfamiliar setting.
“Today, I am a mother, and it is the most beautiful feeling I have ever known. Of course, there are moments of exhaustion, but they are always outweighed by the happiness I feel when I look at my daughter – healthy, growing, and full of life. She is my strength, my hope, and my future.”
Looking back, Suzanne recognizes the importance of timely and compassionate care. The support she received through IOM during her pregnancy helped transform fear into reassurance and uncertainty into confidence — at a moment when it mattered most.
This story was written by Maria Eleni Pappa, Media and Communications Assistant at IOM Greece.
IPPOKRATIS I is implemented by IOM Greece with the support of the Home Affairs Fund (ΤΑΜΕΥ – Ταμεία Μετανάστευσης και Εσωτερικών Υποθέσεων) and co-funding from the European Union.