The story of Philippa
My story began one dark winter’s night in the 1980’s, when I was born prematurely at a hospital in the UK with an infection that was later identified as Listeriosis (Listeria). Listeria is a rare infection – contracted from soft, unpasteurised cheese – that is often fatal in unborn babies, meaning few doctors come across this condition, except in textbooks. This rarity still makes it difficult for me to access appropriate care.
My case prompted the UK government to introduce a public health warning for pregnant women that is still in force today, however, I’m sure that many pregnant women wonder why it is there. Sadly, as I result of the Listeria infection I suffered catastrophic brain damage, leaving me with a life-threatening neurosurgical condition and a significant physical disability, as well as numerous other medical problems.
Despite these problems I am a really positive, determined person. When I’m not in hospital I have been learning to fly and I absolutely love it!