Rock Bottom, a book written by Tola Olatunji was recently launched in Benin City, Nigeria.
Done in partnership with Edo State Centre for Women and Youth Development, the occasion was also the platform to unveil Rock Bottom Sickle Cell Initiative, an NGO founded by Tola Olatunji, Rock Bottom Sickle Cell Initiative which focuses on providing supports for sickle cell warriors.
Rock Bottom is a memoir inspired by a personal experience as a sickle cell survivor especially from Olatunji’s last crisis which was further complicated in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Bedridden for three months, the author escaped death by the skin of her teeth.
The book raises awareness by offering eye-opening tips on sickle cell anemia, inspiring warriors of the disease and enlightening the public that being a victim of sickle cell isn’t a death sentence.
Olatunji
Olatunji revealed inspiration behind the book and the reason for having the launch in Benin given she was born and bred in the ancient city.
“I wrote the book because I wanted to tell my story. I decided to write the book while I was recovering from hospital. They had discharged me and I thought, you know what? It’s good to tell my story because it was a life changing experience for me, and maybe somebody’s going through the same experience. This was in 2022, a few months after I got out of hospital,” the property lawyer said.
Originally from Benin City, Nigeria, Olatunji now resides in the UK. Growing up with sickle cell and three siblings, two of whom are sickle cell warriors, Olatunji has witnessed firsthand the challenges of living with the disease. After a near-death experience that left her believing she might never walk again, Olatunji had to relearn how to walk- a journey that profoundly impacted her perspective on life.
Through her dedication and passion, the author strives to touch lives and make a difference in the lives of sickle cell warriors, ensuring they are not limited by their condition. Olatunji’s journey is a testament to the power of resilience and the impact one person can have in creating positive change.
The event had as special Guest of Honour, Betsy Obaseki, Edo State’s First Lady.
