![Image: Centrally on white, in cyan: Eve "[Never] did I think I would become a refugee. But today, like millions of others, I am one. Now I understand their struggles more deeply." A magenta border, with a fully lit Hanukía in cyans, in white: "Eight Refugee Stories for Chanukah" and the Birmingham Progressive Synagogue logo, "celebrating Birmingham as a City of Sanctuary".](/images/2024/12/22/71.png)
Eve's journey: from persecution to healing
Image: A magenta border, with a fully lit Hanukía in cyans, in white: "Eight Refugee Stories for Chanukah" and the Birmingham Progressive Synagogue logo, "celebrating Birmingham as a City of Sanctuary". Centrally on white, in cyan: Eve "[Never] did I think I would become a refugee. But today, like millions of others, I am one. Now I understand their struggles more deeply."
Eve* was forced to leave her homeland, Turkey, due to political oppression and persecution. Life had become unbearable. Despite being a dedicated hospital doctor, Eve faced imprisonment simply for her political views and for disagreeing with the government.Eve and her family had no choice but to flee. They found refuge in the UK. Once here, Eve spent two years studying to pass medical exams necessary to practise in the UK.
Eve reflects: ‘I could never have imagined that persecution of people for their beliefs or minority groups in Turkey would reach such horrific levels, nor did I ever think I would become a refugee. But today, like millions of others, I am one. Now I understand their struggles more deeply.’Today, Eve works full-time as a paediatrician at a Birmingham hospital. Although she misses Turkey dearly, she finds comfort and happiness in the life she has rebuilt in the UK, working in a place where she is free and safe, knowing that her beliefs will never make her a target again.
*name changed