When Stuart Guy found her, he discovered Sharon had lost the vision in both eyes and couldn't find her way back to the bedroom after getting up to use the toilet.

Three seizures and an emergency dash to hospital later, the couple had a baby girl safely in their arms - and a diagnosis of pre-eclampsia.

The Narre Warren mum, and member of the Australian Action on Pre-Eclampsia (AAPEC) group, has gone public with her experience to promote national Pre-eclampsia Week, which starts today .

Mrs Ramsay stresses that pre-eclampsia is usually mild and pregnant women should not be unduly fearful.

But in 10per cent of cases (one per cent of all pregnancies), it can represent a serious threat to the life of the baby and even the mother.

She now realises that facial swelling and a problem with one eye soon before the crisis broke were key warning signs.

"They don't really talk about it at the 'huff and puff' birth classes. I am trying to get the word out and make other people aware of the things we weren't aware of," she said. "If I help just one person, I'm happy with that."

It took more than a year for her sight to return to normal and she is still coming to terms with having to drop plans for more children after being warned a second pregnancy carried a low 10per cent survival rate.

But after a rocky start, the couple are thrilled little Eliza has thrived and achieved every milestone ahead of schedule. "It came very close, I am very lucky my daughter and I are still alive."

For more infomation about pre-eclampsia and support, go to www.aapec.org.au