HUMZA Yousaf has said he feels “blessed” to have the NHS after his new-born baby required care.
Last week, the former first minister and wife Nadia El-Nakla announced the birth of their second child together: Liyana Jenin Yousaf.
Yousaf said on social media: "Amal is super excited at becoming a big sister, and Maya is very happy to be the head of our girl gang.
"We give thanks to God for blessing our family with a new addition."
Welcome to the world Liyana Jenin Yousaf, we are in love. Mum and baby are doing well. Amal is super excited at becoming a big sister, and Maya is very happy to be the head of our girl gang. We give thanks to God for blessing our family with a new addition. ٱلْحَمْدُ لِلَّٰهِ pic.twitter.com/oR0NYsSXKT
— Humza Yousaf (@HumzaYousaf) July 17, 2024
Now, the former SNP leader has issued another update on Instagram, revealing that Liyana required hospital care – and praising the NHS for its work.
“Liyana, my wee warrior,” Yousaf wrote.
“A few complications with very high bilirubin levels, so a few days in hospital for some phototherapy but Liyana's recovery has gone well.”
Bilirubin is a yellow substance which is found naturally in the blood and forms as a by-product when old red blood cells are broken down, according to the NHS website.
It can be associated with newborn jaundice and phototherapy – which uses a special type of light that can help a baby's liver to break down and remove the bilirubin from blood – can be used as a treatment.
Yousaf said in a post on Instagram: “Although upsetting to see your child unwell, I am filled with gratitude.
“How blessed are we to have an NHS free at the point of need, filled with exceptional staff (a special mention to the Transitional Care Team at Ninewells Hospital).
“Gratitude also for being able to access exceptional care, knowing it will be there when we need it, in contrast to so many across the world in places like Gaza and Sudan. How do they cope with unwell children and nowhere there to help.
“Even in the toughest of times, I feel grateful for all the blessings that have been bestowed on us, Alhamdulillah [praise be to god].”
Wellwishers responded under Yousaf’s post, including artist Sara Shakeel, who wrote: “I needed phototherapy for a few days when I was born. Baby Liyana needs all the light so she can shine back a thousand times brighter, inshallah.”
“Looking forwards to her returning home and growing healthy and happy,” another user added.
