Editor’s Note: Gwen T. Samuels is a poet and fiber artist who joined the WI learning community in 2018. She recently published a memoir about her experiences contracting COVID-19, and her perspectives on prevention and healing. The Institute is pleased to share with you this email announcement from Gwen about her book. You can also see some of her quilt work in “We Are The Story“—an article published in the November WI eNews about Gwen’s contributions to a multi-site exhibition sponsored by the Textile Center of Minneapolis, Minnesota.
Dear Bahá’í Friends:
It has been quite some time since we have been together for fellowship, not only because of the shutdowns due to COVID-19, but also due to the fact that I contracted COVID-19 myself in March of this year. I was hospitalized for a period of 23 days, including 10 days on a ventilator. It was the most harrowing experience of my life.
My recovery has been difficult and slow, but steady. I thank God for my children who cared for me, and all of my friends including you, who sent prayers and well wishes. It occurred to me that because black and brown people are dying disproportionately from this disease, as well as from other co-morbidities, it might be a good idea if I shared some of my experiences in overcoming both cancer and COVID-19. So I wrote a memoir of my experience. It is entitled A Second Second Chance: A Black Woman’s Story of Recovery from COVID-19.
I hope the words in my book will help others. If you would like to purchase the book, please visit my website triayarts.com). I would appreciate it if you share information about the book with others. A press release is attached. Thank you in advance.
I’m praying that all of you will stay happy, healthy, and safe in these difficult times in our country.
Alláh’u’Abhá!
Gwen
