Teacher at Meadowgate Academy in Wisbech publishes book on her life growing up with two brothers with Down’s Syndrome
Bethany with her brother Jeff, who is one of the inspirations behind the book, and her sister Esther. - Credit: Archant
A special needs teacher has written a book about life growing up with two brothers with Down’s Syndrome and within a month has sold more than 100 copies including to readers in India and Australia.
Bethany and her younger sister Esther. - Credit: Archant
Bethany Harper teaches at Meadowgate School in Wisbech and wrote the story after years jotting down her memories and experiences.
“Everyone has a story inside them, I have been bold enough to share mine,” she said.
“I am passionate about life and much of this stems from growing up with two brothers with Down’s Syndrome.
“These boys have been a very much loved, much-accepted and much respected part of the community. They are well known faces around the town.
Bethany Harper with copies of her book. - Credit: Archant
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“I always felt the life we have lived has been anything short of ordinary and have spent many years writing a book.”
Initially released to close friends and family, Bethany wrote, edited and published it independently - a real labour of love.
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“It is the story of how wonderful life has been growing up with two siblings with Down’s Syndrome and follows us through the joys of chromosome 21, but also the sadness of how that chromosome also took one of our very precious boys from us,” she said.
“My younger brother died from a rare Leukaemia in 2015, which can be a complication of Down’s Syndrome. He was treated at the local Macmillan centre and is remembered with much fondness by so many.”
Within 72 hours of releasing her book in mid June, she sold more than 100 books across the UK and so far, the reviews have been incredible.
One said: “Dumbstruck by the immensely life affirming story so lovingly told. A life changing read.”
Another: “I have laughed out loud and cried big fat tears.”
Beth said: “I have an unwavering belief in the power of words. Our wonderful local community has supported this quest so far, and I would love to share this story even wider.
“As a special needs teacher, I have already begun selling this to parents at Meadowgate Academy and am now selling further afield.”
• God’s Amazing Gifts, growing up with two siblings with Down’s Syndrome, is £12.99. All profits go to the Down’s Syndrome Association.
