It was a book launch for a book that might never have been written, a joint birthday party for twins who might never have survived their traumatic birth, a celebration of life and love and appreciation made perfect by those who attended to share in the joyful event hosted by consultant rheumatologist Dr Perpetual Uke and her husband Matthew.
Dr Uke – Pep, explained why she felt compelled to share her story in her new book ‘Covid Coma to Twin Birth’ as she celebrated a joint book launch and birthday party for her twins: “I wrote my story to inspire others facing their own challenges, and dedicated to my family who kept me strong when I could easily have died. My book is in memory of all those lives taken by the Covid-19 pandemic, for I could have been one of them.
“If it was not for god almighty, the care and compassion of the NHS during the terrifying early days of the COVID pandemic, I might not have survived contracting COVID. I fell sick with the virus in April 2020 whilst pregnant with twins, and was admitted to University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust. Whilst I lay in an induced coma my twins were delivered by caesarean section, in a bid to save our lives. Over 100 days compassionate care from clinicians at Birmingham Women’s and Children’s NHS Foundation Trust set the foundation for my twins Sochika and Osinachi marking their official fifth birthday on the date they were originally due.
“I wanted the launch of my book to have a celebratory feel to signal my relief for how we have been strong as a family to overcome the challenges we have endured, and in appreciation of the support of all those who surround us and have been part of our story. The NHS – three different Trusts – saved our lives, and we will be eternally grateful for the compassion shown to us.”
Signing copies of her book at the event, attended by guests from across the world, Pep was delighted to completely sell out of the inspirational true story, and raised money for NHS charities close to her heart.
“Any money raised for NHS charities is precious to me, as it will go directly to improve patients’ experience and support those with health challenges who are currently navigating bumps on their own road.”
For more information about the book or to be inspired by Pep’s story please read here: Amazon.co.uk : Covid coma to twin birth