Sylvia overcomes illness to scoop prize success

Sylvia Lowe had good reason to celebrate her graduation from the University of Teesside, as she became seriously ill when pregnant in her final year of her final BA (Hons) History degree. Despite developing deep vein thrombosis and being admitted to Hartlepool General Hospital, Sylvia went on to complete her course. At her graduation ceremony she received the Ann Kempton Memorial Prize of £200, awarded to the student who has completed a Humanities degree having overcome disadvantage.

Sylvia, 29, of Tenby Walk, Throston Grange, Hartlepool, came to the University after completing an Access course at Hartlepool College of Further Education. She said: “I’ve always loved History. My favourite subjects at Teesside were Ancient Greece and early Christianity, which I explored in my final year dissertation.”

While pregnant with her fourth child, Sylvia developed deep vein thrombosis and was admitted to Hartlepool General Hospital for three weeks. Sylvia said: “After I left hospital there were still some problems with my leg and I had to use crutches for a while. I missed most of the first semester at University and couldn’t attend lectures.

“Luckily a friend on the course, Lillian Goodyear, brought me the lecture notes and I used the Internet as well. It was so good to pass and the award was a real surprise, it came out of the blue.” Sylvia plans to use the £200 award money on Christmas presents for her partner Jason Garver and children; Daniel, ten, Savannah, seven, Lewis, six, and Ellie, six months.

Sylvia is now working as an Area Co-ordinator for Teesside Supported Living; a community care project which is part of the NHS. She is the daughter of Margaret and Derek Lowe of Harlech Walk, Throston Grange, and a former pupil of High Tunstall Comprehensive.

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