COVID-19 survivor Arthur Sercan and his wife, Jenny Spanos, hosted the official Markham launch of their book Life Happens on April 26 at Oak Valley Health’s Markham Stouffville Hospital (MSH).
Recounting Arthur’s stay in the Intensive Care Unit at MSH, this book is in part his thank you to the many healthcare professionals that helped Arthur to stand and hug his family again.
In 2021, Arthur was admitted with a debilitating case of COVID-19. He could not breathe or walk on his own, unable to receive comfort from his family other than over the phone. In Life Happens, Arthur recalls, “all the thinking I did during that time made me see how fragile life really is, and taught me — and by extension, my family — not to take life for granted.”
Throughout Arthur’s stay in the ICU, he was in the care of many diligent MSH staff including intensivist Dr. Anand Doobay who shared a video message in support of Arthur and his family.
“To see Arthur enjoy life with his wife and his two kids now is extremely rewarding for all of us,” Dr. Doobay said. “We recognize that your generosity is a reflection of the confidence and trust you have in our hospital and the care you can count on. We know it is the care you receive that inspires your support, and we are privileged to provide it.”
The government can’t fund all equipment and other priority needs, so MSH must rely on community support to drive innovation and enable growth.
“Generous support is essential for Markham Stouffville Hospital to be able to remain on the cutting-edge of patient care, and prepared to provide life-saving treatment to every patient, in any scenario,” added Suzette Strong, CEO, MSH Foundation.
Proceeds from all book sales will help the growing, aging, and diverse community MSH serves. The book is available for purchase on Amazon.
Photo: Markham Stouffville Hospital Foundation hosts grateful patient Arthur Sercan and his wife Jenny for the Markham release of thier book Life Happens.