World’s first IVF mum dies

Professor Robert Edwards with Lesley Brown, Louise Brown and Louise's son Cameron

THE woman who gave birth to the world’s first test-tube baby has died.

Lesley Brown brought the global spotlight on Oldham in July 1978, when her daughter Louise was born at Oldham and District General Hospital - making her the first woman to give birth following IVF treatment.

The 64 year old died surrounded by the family the revolutionary treatment helped to create.

She leaves behind stepdaughter Sharon and daughters Louise and Natalie - both born following IVF treatment - and five grandchildren. Her husband John died five years ago.

Mrs Brown, of Whitchurch, Bristol, died at Bristol Royal Infirmary on June 6 following a short illness. The family attended a private funeral service in Bristol yesterday.

Louise, now 33, said: “Mum was a very quiet and private person who ended up in the world spotlight because she wanted a family so much. We are all missing her terribly.”

Speaking on behalf of Professor Edwards and the team at Bourn Hall Clinic, Cambridge, chief executive Mike Macamee said: “Lesley was a devoted mum and grandmother and through her bravery and determination many millions of women have been given the chance to become mothers. She was a lovely gentle lady and we will all remember her with deep affection.”

Mrs Brown had been trying for a baby with husband John for nine years when she successfully conceived following pioneering treatment by Patrick Steptoe and Robert Edwards. The Chronicle broke the world exclusive on the first test-tube baby in 1978, winning awards for the coverage.






READ the full version of this story only in our print and eChron editions



Follow us on Twitter - @OldhamChronicle