Healing Through Stories

Healing Through Stories

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March 08, 2025•5 min read

Some stories in medicine go beyond science and statistics—they reflect resilience, hope, and the deep connection between healthcare providers and their patients. That sentiment is at the heart of Everyday Medical Miracles, a book written by Dr. Joseph Sanfilippo, a tenured professor in Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, and Dr. Carey Andrew-Jaja, a retired clinical professor in the same field.

This book sheds light on the intimate and emotional experiences of doctors, nurses, midwives, and other healthcare professionals in the world of fertility and pregnancy care. Through their combined expertise and personal experiences, Everyday Medical Miracles offers readers a deeper understanding of the challenges and joys of reproductive medicine. Whether someone is navigating fertility treatment, working in healthcare, or simply seeking an inspiring read, this book provides insight, encouragement, and a renewed appreciation for the resilience of both patients and medical professionals.

The Inspiration Behind Everyday Medical Miracles 

The idea for Everyday Medical Miracles was conceived in February 2023 when Dr. Sanfilippo called Dr. Andrew-Jaja with a vision: to create a book filled with true patient stories that highlight the emotional and miraculous moments in reproductive medicine and gynecology. Dr. Andrew-Jaja eagerly embraced the idea, dedicating meticulous effort to ensuring each story was presented with care and authenticity.

The result is a book that not only educates but also deeply moves its readers. Through firsthand narratives, medical professionals share experiences that highlight the profound impact of their work, the strength of their patients, and the unpredictable beauty of life itself.

Memorable Stories from the Book 

The stories in Everyday Medical Miracles reveal the moments of triumph, heartbreak, and unexpected joy that medical professionals experience every day. Each account demonstrates the unique challenges faced by patients and the dedication of those who guide them through their journeys.

One standout story recounts an unforgettable moment from Dr. Joseph Sanfilippo’s early medical career. During a routine delivery, a father excitedly awaited the announcement of his child’s gender. When the doctor delivered a baby girl, the father responded with a simple “Oh, okay.” But moments later, to everyone’s surprise, a second baby was discovered—an unexpected twin. The story perfectly captures the unpredictability of medicine and the joy that comes with bringing new life into the world.

Dr. Andrew-Jaja shares another powerful story about a patient with Type 1 diabetes facing high-risk pregnancies. Having lost a baby mid-trimester, she later found herself pregnant again during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, facing immense uncertainty and medical challenges. Her journey, supported by a doula, her husband, and a dedicated medical team, exemplifies the resilience of both patients and healthcare providers in the face of adversity.

Why This Book Matters 

Everyday Medical Miracles is not just a collection of medical experiences—it is a testament to the strength and compassion that define reproductive healthcare. The book resonates with:

  • Patients and Families – Those who have faced infertility struggles or high-risk pregnancies will find comfort in these real-life experiences.

  • Healthcare Professionals and Students – Medical students, nurses, midwives, and physicians can gain valuable insights into the emotional depth of patient care beyond clinical procedures.

  • Book Clubs and Community Groups – This book is ideal for discussions among mothers, healthcare workers, and those passionate about women’s health.

According to Dr. Andrew-Jaja, this book embodies hope, compassion, and the unwavering dedication of medical professionals who make a difference in patients’ lives every day.

Through heartfelt storytelling, Everyday Medical Miracles showcases the dedication of medical professionals and the incredible journeys of their patients. This collection of real-life experiences serves as a reminder of the profound impact of compassionate healthcare, making it a meaningful addition to any reader’s library.


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Joseph Sanfilippo, MD, MBA, FACOG, is a distinguished alumnus of Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine & Science-Chicago Medical School. He is a past president of the American Society for Reproductive Medicine and a highly regarded expert who has been named one of America’s Top Doctors. 

Carey D. Andrew-Jaja, MD, FACOG, is a retired clinical professor of Obstetrics, Gynecology, & Reproductive Sciences and past president of the medical staff at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC) Magee-Womens Hospital. He received multiple “Best Doctors in America” and Outstanding Educator recognitions. He is the clinical director for the Division of Midwifery and adjunct clinical faculty at UPMC Magee-Women’s Hospital. 

Get your copy of the book here:
BookBaby Store:  https://store.bookbaby.com/book/everyday-medical-miracles 

Amazon:  Amazon: https://a.co/d/dnJEOvA 

Barnes and Noble:  https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/everyday-medical-miracles-joseph-sanfilippo-md-mba-facog/1146807761?ean=9798350939866 

 

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Medical Disclaimer:

By listening to the Health Youniversity podcast, you agree not to use this podcast as medical advice to treat any medical condition for yourself or others. Consult your healthcare provider for any medical issues you may have. This entire disclaimer also pertains to any guests or contributors to any Health Youniversity podcast.

 

I am a women’s health expert with a specialty in working with women and couples navigating fertility challenges for more than 20 years. I look forward to helping you realize your dream of family. I’m also a mother, a sister, a friend. I live in beautiful Northern California, where the nature of Mt. Tamalpais, the Pacific Ocean and San Francisco Bay are my backyard. Traditional Chinese Medicine discovered me in 1978, when I was struggling with digestive complaints that flummoxed medical doctors. It wasn’t until I received my first acupuncture treatment and herbal prescription that I connected my medical condition to grief over loss of a loved one; that the stress of holding in such huge emotions was literally tying me up in knots, and I was finally able to heal. Discovering the powerful links between the physical, the mental, the emotional, the spiritual, and the environmental shifted my understanding of health and wellness forever. For more than 20 years, I’ve had the privilege of learning and implementing Whole Systems Traditional Chinese Medicine to understand the root causes of health conditions and realize optimal health and well-being. I am a strong believer in the importance of health education, for knowledge is power when you have the tools for effective self care.

Dr. Susan Fox

I am a women’s health expert with a specialty in working with women and couples navigating fertility challenges for more than 20 years. I look forward to helping you realize your dream of family. I’m also a mother, a sister, a friend. I live in beautiful Northern California, where the nature of Mt. Tamalpais, the Pacific Ocean and San Francisco Bay are my backyard. Traditional Chinese Medicine discovered me in 1978, when I was struggling with digestive complaints that flummoxed medical doctors. It wasn’t until I received my first acupuncture treatment and herbal prescription that I connected my medical condition to grief over loss of a loved one; that the stress of holding in such huge emotions was literally tying me up in knots, and I was finally able to heal. Discovering the powerful links between the physical, the mental, the emotional, the spiritual, and the environmental shifted my understanding of health and wellness forever. For more than 20 years, I’ve had the privilege of learning and implementing Whole Systems Traditional Chinese Medicine to understand the root causes of health conditions and realize optimal health and well-being. I am a strong believer in the importance of health education, for knowledge is power when you have the tools for effective self care.

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