Tributes to “one in a million” teacher who died weeks after birth of second child

Bramley Grange Primary headteacher Rachel Colquhoun said Hannah Wilson, whose family described her as “one in a million”, had been ready for any challenge and had been “much-loved” by pupils, parents and staff.

Hannah (41) died last month after being diagnosed when 30-weeks pregnant.

Despite her deteriorating health, Hannah gave birth to her second daughter, Sadie Jessica Rose, a week later at Jessops Hospital, Sheffield, via Caesarean section.

Staff sprang into action to bring to life her dream of getting married to fiancé Andrew Wilson and holding a naming ceremony for Sadie and her 22-month-old sister Jude, organising the joint event at the hospital within 24 hours.

Hannah was a teacher at Bramley Grange for six years and taught Year 6 pupils.

Ms Colquhoun said: “Hannah was a wonderful teacher, much loved by children, parents and staff.

“She was always smiling and cheerful, ready to take on any challenge presented to her — whether this be in the classroom or on the many residential trips she took the children on.

“She has touched the lives of many of our children and will be greatly missed. Our thoughts are with her family at this sad, difficult time.”

After Sadie’s birth, it was discovered that Hannah’s cancer was far more advanced than initially thought and she was given just weeks to live.

Her family said she had stayed strong and begun making plans —  which included getting married and formally naming her children.

Hannah’s family described the day as the most emotional and unique day that could ever be.

She was moved soon afterwards to Barnsley Hospice and baby Sadie was taken to Barnsley Neonatal Unit for her care to continue as close to her mum as possible.

Her family said staff had pulled out all the stops so Hannah could have as much time as possible with her baby, transporting Sadie daily by ambulance to the hospice for visits.

Sadie was discharged from neonatal care just two days after Hannah’s death.

Hannah’s family said she had wanted no flowers for her funeral, but instead asked for donations to be made to all the services and charities that supported her during her final weeks.

After a target was set of £1,000, the generosity from supporters saw the total passing £35,000.

On the JustGiving page set up for Hannah’s chosen causes, her family said: “Words cannot express the heartache we’ve been left with from losing Hannah.

“She really was one in a million who was so selfless until the very end.”

The family said they had been overwhelmed by the amount of kindness they have received.

The money raised from the page at https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/hannahsfinalwish will be spilt between the Jessops Wing, Barnsley Neonatal Unit, Barnsley Hospice, and the charities The Ambulance Wish Foundation and Mummy’s Star.