Mum’s book tribute to late daughter
A West Lothian mother whose late daughter was born with genetic disabilities has written a book that she hopes will help people better understand those living with similar conditions.
Beth McRobb’s daughter Lesley died unexpectedly three years ago at the age of 35.
Following her daughter’s death, Beth began to write her book ‘Every Petal A Memory’as a therapeutic process for herself but was prompted to publish the book by her husband Colin so that their story could help others.
Lesley was born with Apert Syndrome, was later diagnosed as being on the autism spectrum and had to undergo a life-saving operation as a baby. Her surgeon was Ian Jackson, later made famous through The Boy David story.
Beth said:“I am devastated by the loss of my very special daughter but would be so proud if her story gave hope to those facing difficult lives, showing them that a great deal can be achieved when you don’t give up your dreams.
“It would also be wonderful to think that Lesley’s story might make people empathise a wee bit more with those whose lives have additional demands and difficulties and this is really why I would like to have it promoted.”
Beth hopes that her book can help shine a light on the day to day challenges those with a disability go through.
She said:“Lesley’s life wasn’t easy, she had problems with bullying and in her teens she found it difficult to deal with life. Her disability made her more fragile – but what she’s remembered for is her smile.
“We still meet people a few years on who say they still miss her smile. Many say they didn’t know how hard life was for her.”
The book,‘Every Petal a Memory’, is available to purchase online through Spiderwize, Amazon and Waterstones at £6.99 and all money will go to charity.
Beth said:“It is not my intention to make money from the book so any royalties I receive are being sent to two charities - Signpost in Livingston and Scottish Autism in Alloa. Spiderwize have agreed to donate their share of the royalties as well which means a bit more money will go to the charities.”
And Beth say the feedback she’s received from people who have bought the book has made her want to promote it to a wider audience.
Beth said:“People have found it to be enlightening and inspirational and it is a real legacy for my daughter to have left to the world.”