As we welcome 2025, it’s a time for reflection, gratitude, and hope. The dawn of a new year brings with it the promise of fresh starts, new opportunities, and the chance to make our dreams a reality. Whether you had a fantastic 2024 or faced challenges, the New Year is a blank slate waiting to be filled with your aspirations and achievements.

Embrace New Opportunities

2025 is a year full of potential. Embrace the opportunities that come your way, and don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. Take on new challenges, learn new skills, and grow both personally and professionally. Remember, each day is a chance to start anew and make a positive impact on your life and the lives of others.

Focus on Health and Wellbeing

As you set your resolutions for the year, prioritise your health and wellbeing. Make time for self-care, exercise regularly, eat nutritious foods, and get plenty of rest. Mental health is just as important as physical health, so ensure you take care of your mind as well as your body. Surround yourself with positivity and support, and don’t hesitate to seek help if you need it.

Cherish Relationships

Strong relationships are the foundation of a happy life. In 2025, make an effort to strengthen your bonds with family and friends. Spend quality time with loved ones, express your appreciation, and be there for each other through thick and thin. Building and maintaining meaningful connections will bring joy and fulfillment to your life.

Pursue Your Passions

There’s no better time than the present to pursue your passions. Whether it’s a hobby you’ve always wanted to try, a career goal you’re striving for, or a personal project you’re passionate about, make 2025 the year you go after what you love. Follow your heart, and let your passions guide you to happiness and success.

Spread Kindness

In a world that can sometimes feel divided, spreading kindness is more important than ever. Small acts of kindness can make a big difference in someone’s day and create a ripple effect of positivity. Be kind to others, lend a helping hand, and spread joy wherever you go. Your kindness will not only brighten someone else’s life but also enrich your own.

As we embark on this journey through 2025, let’s carry forward the lessons learned, the love shared, and the dreams nurtured in the past year. May 2025 be a year of joy, growth, and fulfillment for all. Here’s to a fantastic New Year filled with endless possibilities and new adventures.

Happy New Year 2025!

From Dr Kevwe & the rest of the team ❤️

 

Accent change following immigration is not equivalent to being fake. This was the categorical response of Chat GPT when I typed the controversial question into the artificial intelligence (AI) supported chatbot. Accents often change naturally when someone is immersed in a new linguistic environment. This change can be influenced by various factors, such as the desire to be understood, to fit in socially, or simply through frequent exposure to different speech patterns. Do well to watch the very expository topic related video below and do not hesitate to post your raw thoughts in the comments section below. I spoke to a Nigerian-British UK born Doctor on the subject. See what she had to say.

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The aim of this article is not to encourage immigrants to necessarily strive for accent change or lose their identity, as some have argued. If any individual however decided to fully immerse themselves in the local accent of the community they find themselves, then whatever their reason may be, the point of the above video and the rest of this article, is to prove that they are not being fake. Here are some key points for those who are still on the fence:

1. Adaptation and Communication: People may subconsciously adjust their accents to be better understood by those around them. This is a natural part of language adaptation and communication.

2. Social Integration: Adopting elements of a new accent can help immigrants integrate into their new community. It might make it easier to form social connections and feel a sense of belonging.

3. Psychological Factors: Over time, accents can change without deliberate effort as a result of prolonged exposure to a new linguistic environment. This is a natural cognitive process rather than a conscious decision to "fake" an accent.

4. Identity and Authenticity: While some might worry that changing their accent is inauthentic, language and identity are fluid. A person can have multiple ways of speaking, and shifting accents doesn't necessarily mean they're abandoning their original identity.

In essence, an accent change following immigration can be a natural, adaptive process rather than an act of being fake. It's part of how humans navigate new social and linguistic environments. In my personal opinion it is by no means a compulsory adaptation but if people pay loads of money to learn a new language or to improve their spoken English in several parts of the world, what's the big deal with genuine accent change towards better flow of the local diction? I am genuinely interested to know what your thoughts are. 

Article, Video production and direction by: Dr Oghenekevwe Daniel Ogidigben

 As I mark and celebrate another year on the calendar of life, introspection becomes a companion, whispering reflections in the corridors of my mind. Birthdays are not merely chronological markers; they are chapters in the book of one's existence.

In the rearview mirror of memory, I see a collage of moments, each imprinting its significance on the canvas of my journey. Triumphs and tribulations weave a tapestry that tells a story of resilience, growth, and self-discovery. The past year brought its own set of challenges, akin to a series of puzzle pieces that required patient assembly. Through adversity, I found strength and resilience I didn't know I possessed. The echoes of laughter and the weight of tears have carved deeper wells of empathy within me, connecting me to the shared human experience.

Accomplishments, both big and small, shimmer like stars in the night sky of reminiscence. Each goal achieved, every lesson learned, and the evolution of my character stand as testaments to the ceaseless motion of personal growth. Birthdays are not just about candles on a cake; they are milestones that measure the distance traveled on the winding road of self-discovery. In the quiet moments of contemplation, I also acknowledge the friendships that have weathered the seasons of change. Like anchors in the tempest, these connections provide solace and joy, shaping the contours of my support network.

Looking ahead, I am met with the unknown, a horizon painted with the hues of possibilities. The future is an unwritten chapter, waiting for me to pick up the pen and craft the narrative. It's a thrilling yet humbling prospect, a blank canvas awaiting the strokes of my choices and actions.

As the candles flicker on the birthday cake, I am not just commemorating the passage of time; I am celebrating the symphony of experiences that have composed the melody of my life. Gratitude fills my heart for the gift of existence and the opportunity to continue this extraordinary journey. Another year older, wiser, and infinitely grateful for the intricate mosaic of moments that define my story.

 

Welcome to 2024 dearly beloved. We wish you all a healthy, safe, happy and prosperous year ahead. Always remember that, no matter what, NOTHING GOOD IS IMPOSSIBLE! Approach the year like you have no restrictions, as we all must, blazing on all cylinders from today (1st January 2024) till the last day of this year (31st December 2024), as much as possible. In this new year/chapter, may you find the strength to overcome challenges, the wisdom to make the right choices, and the courage to pursue your dreams. Remember that success is not just about reaching the destination but savouring the journey. Cherish each moment, learn from every experience, and grow with every challenge.

By: Microsoft image creator from Designer

May this New Year bring us all joy, fulfilment, and a renewed sense of purpose. You have the power to shape your destiny, so seize the opportunity and make 2024 your best year yet. Happy New Year!

With love from all of us at Dr Kevwe's Blog 🎉

 

As I sit back to reflect on how my 2023 panned out, I begin to realise the more and affirm that, despite the myriad of temporary set backs, several reasons abound for myself and family to cultivate gratitude. In my opinion and that of experts/successful life coaches like Rhonda Byrne, the author of the highly acclaimed audio book and film, The Secret, the only way to foster a positive outlook towards the in coming year is to find these silver linings, reflect on and savour the feeling of winning no matter how small, then remain thankful for the many more good things to come. Personally, against all odds, that 2023 was an amazing year for myself and my family is an understatement. From completing for our mortgage and moving into our home, to successful immigration applications for settlement status in the United Kingdom, to completing my General Practice/post-graduate medical training, all in great physical health and sound minds, it's been a dream come through year for us. What reasons do you have to be grateful for 2023? 

By: Microsoft  image creator from Designer

For some people it's advancements in medical science that continue to unfold, offering hope for improved health and well-being in the year to come/future ahead. For others it's the ongoing global collaboration to address pressing issues, such as climate change and pandemics, and how all of this stands as a testament to human resilience and cooperation. Some see the ever evolving world of  technological innovations as a source of gratitude, especially those who have been able to take advantage of resultant daily life enhancements and the new possibilities created. Some are excited about the ever-expanding realm of renewable energy and it's promised contribution to a sustainable future, mitigating environmental concerns. A good number are thankful for access to information and how education has become more widespread, empowering individuals worldwide. What are you thankful for when you think about 2023?

By: Microsoft image creator from Designer

For the majority, in the face of so much uncertainty with everyday life, personal connections and the support of loved ones remain invaluable, contributing to improving emotional well-being. The recognition and prioritization of mental health/general wellbeing by individuals/various stakeholders around the world, underscore a growing awareness of holistic self-care, leading to opportunities for personal and professional growth, allowing individuals to pursue their passions and aspirations. Did 2023 open this gate for you? No matter the number of temporary challenges faced, does anything make you feel like 2023 has set you up to walk into a candy city in 2024? 

By: Microsoft image creator from Designer

With all the positivity and optimism expressed the the paragraphs above, I do appreciate that the same is not the case for many individuals/families. Some people have lost dearest love ones to either ailments of various sorts, natural disasters or even man made wars. The year has been a shit show for others and there does not appear to be anything significant to be thankful for. This however does not have to be the case moving forward. As long as there is life there can be hope, and as we navigate the complexities of the modern world, the ability to savour moments of joy and simplicity become a cherished aspect of life. Gratitude, therefore, becomes not only a sentiment but a transformative force that enriches our lives and strengthens our connection to the world around us. For those who are struggling, do well to hang in there till you see and enjoy the beautiful light at the end of whatever tunnel you currently find yourself.

By: Microsoft image creator from Designer

On behalf of myself and the rest of the team at Dr Kevwe's Blog, I say a very big thank you to you our highly esteemed readers for making our 2023 special. Every time you clicked into the blog this year, it felt like we won a lottery. We want to wish you and your families a safe, healthy, happy and prosperous new year ahead. Let's work together in the new year to make 2024 the best year yet for us all.

By: Dr Oghenekevwe Daniel Ogidigben B.Sc., M.B.B.S., MRCGP

Clicking into my phone this morning one hour after waking up, in line with my new practice to reduce screen time and protect my headspace as I prepared to launch into the day, I was greeted with multiple posters and salutations from different quarters/people commemorating "INTERNATIONAL MEN'S DAY" 2023. 

Although the thought of men being celebrated felt good at first glance, I could have sworn that it was a prank. International men's day? What is this all about? I whispered to myself. Then I did a little search and only this morning did I realise that, International Men's Day is observed annually on November 19th to focus on men's health, promote gender equality, and celebrate the positive contributions men make to society. It provides an opportunity to address issues such as men's mental health, toxic masculinity, and the challenges faced by men in various areas of life. This year the central theme is "ZERO MALE SUICIDE", as illustrated in one of the official International men's day home page poster below.

If I had my way I would focus on celebrating the positive contributions men make to society all day, everyday, alongside our women-folk. From the relentless hard work to ensure a baseline level of comfort and safety on the nuclear family front, to various amazing contributions in different quarters, including professionally and otherwise, at different levels. It is however pertinent to recognise the fact that, of the approximately 700,000 people who die due to suicide every year, men are more likely to make a large percentage of this sad statistic, with rates quoted to be three times higher compared to women. If you ask for my opinion I'll say it doesn't do the world any good if the reverse was the case, as every single case of suicide is one too many. The theme today however got me reflecting on the various challenges that men could possibly encounter in their journey through life and I stumbled on the below statistics poster that made the rounds 5 years ago.

Although the practice of comparing male to female outcomes (and coming up with indices like the ones noted above) might be an age long phenomenon, I will urge readers to keep an open mind and take a more positive/holistic approach to these and related issues. International men's day should be a day to reflect on how to contribute our quotas both individually, as men living by example, and as a group, to not only appreciate the flavour men should ideally bring to everywhere we find ourselves but to also work on reducing the statistics to zero percent (0 %) for every single challenge. It would have been amazing if we could all possess magic wands 💫 to wave at these issues and make them go away. Unfortunately even against all odds, as the case may be in several regions of the world we live in today, we all have to persistently make concerted efforts to pull our weights and tackle the challenges one day at a time, until we can pat our chests to say that we have made significant progress and beyond. For those who are struggling with any form of anxiety and depression, the major precursor to suicide, please seek professional help as soon as possible and do not leave your family in the dark or put them through a lifetime of emotional pain, as Lori Prichard described in the TEDx Ogden YouTube footage below. 

                              What I learned from my husband's suicide | Lori Prichard | TEDx Ogden

 

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To God be all the glory. Let’s make 2023 a positively memorable year to remember folks. 

Dr Oghenekevwe Daniel Ogidigben 

 

As the world bids farewell to Queen Elizabeth II in the greatest state funeral of modern times, the solemnity on the streets of the United Kingdom today is unquestionably palpable. 99% of Non-essential Service Providers have shut their doors to pay their last respects to the Queen and the atmosphere at my current location is just mind-blowing, even as Windsor where the state funeral is being held is over 2 hours away. Classical example of a Queen loved by her people to the moon and back, if you ask me.

Source: justjared.com

96 years of a life well lived with over 70 years of a reign that stood the test of time and gained the admiration of many across the length and breath of the globe. Queen Elizabeth II was one of a kind and her devotion to the service of her people will remain as a shining light for exemplary leadership for many many years to come. Adieu great Lilibet

By Dr Daniel Ogidigben

 

Source: sky.com

On the 8th of September 2022, I was at work when the news of the death of Queen Elizabeth II sent shock waves across the world. At the ripe age of 96 and after over 70 years of serving your people diligently, you peacefully slept on, for others to continue with the greatness of the legacy that you built over the decades of your existence. The classical example of a life lived to the fullest.

Source: bbc.com

I didn't have the opportunity to meet the Queen in person but one way or the other, she had been introduced to us and remained a constant there after, in all our lives. From the South South Rainforest regions of West Africa, myself and other kids sang and danced to the nursery rhyme that verbally illustrated a "cat going to London to visit the Queen". Social Studies then introduced Colonialism to us and from my understanding via the history books, you inherited a Kingdom whose major international business for many years was Global Trade, exploration and territory acquisition. Some still associate your memory with this business but those who followed your modern reign closely can confirm that, you have a heart of gold filled with nothing but love and kindness through and through. I watched part of the message you gave on your first visit to Dublin and you clearly reflected on how many things could have been approached and done differently, if the hand of time were to be turned back.

Credit: Mr Kevin P.Burke and the Burke Children Private Collection - via The Economist

The Queen was the embodiment of true service to her people and the commonwealth. Behind all the earthly power and glory, there was a beautiful, compassionate, caring and God fearing woman/mother/grandmother/great grandmother. The current testimonials say it all and it's obviously as clear as day light that, in our life time, there will never be another Queen to take your place in our hearts. Rest in strength great one.

By Dr Oghenekevwe Daniel Ogidigben

 

This is to wish all of "DR KEVWE'S BLOG" Readers, friends and well wishers a very Happy and safe New Year ahead. We hope that 2022 brings you all you wish and pray for. From optimal health seeking behaviours to perfecting your craft and business; we hope you have a fulfilled year ahead. 2021 was an interesting year and in so many quarters, at some point, things almost came to a stand still because of the COVID-19 Pandemic. In Healthcare, we were so busy that, I developed severe writers apathy/writers block and I am sure this might have been the case with many people in various key sectors of the various polities of the world. We hope and pray that, the worst is over and everything that experienced a setback in 2021 will bloom and flourish in this 2022 and onwards. 

From Dr Oghenekevwe Daniel Ogidigben

 General Practice had always been on my list of Specialty/Residency Training options but as I reflect on summarised details of what I have termed to be some significant events from the last 10 years that culminated in 2020, the one thought that floods my busy mind is," what a year to have finally started"- The year that COVID-19 brought the world to her knees! 2011;2012;2013;2014;2015;2016;2017;2018;2019 and finally 2020 has come to an end. I will most likely continue to edit this piece for the next few weeks to come as there was at least one event per year that I could summarise in this reflective piece but for now, permit me to say Happy New Year in advance Fam! It's only a couple of minutes to what hopes to be a promising year.....

If you have ever worked closely with Nurses like I have or have been nursed back to good health, following an awful period of illness, then you understand what I mean when I say that, Nurses are Heroes and what better day to express profound gratitude for the many years of their support, than May 12th, the anniversary of Florence Nightingale's birth and International Nurses Day 2020! This year, The International Council Of Nurses and her partners have decided to focus on the fact that, all her members around the world, must act with one voice, to lead the herculean task of "Nursing the world back to optimum health"!


From my days of medical school till date, Nurses have always been a major part of my work life and that I respect them so much for what they do, is an understatement. You get a new job at a Hospital or any other healthcare setting and you meet them on your first day of work. You show respect and maintain a cool head, then they happily teach you how to quickly acclimatise with your new work place and make your life easier than you could ever imagine, all for the greater good of patients/clients. What would the life of a medical Doctor be without good Nurses? My answer is miserable. I won't go into personal stories but on a special day as this, I have decided to post some pictures of some of the Nurses that have made a positive mark in the lives of patients, working with me as Resident Medical Officer on Call. These special Nurses and more, contributed largely to the successful completion of my first year as a medical Practitioner in England.

 Let me use this opportunity to say a very big thank you to all the Nurses around the world. Please continue to do the amazing work you do. My deepest condolence go out to the families of the wonderful Nurses who have lost their lives in active service, caring for Coronavirus Disease patients and eventually succumbing to the disease! You are the true heroes and words will never be enough to appreciate the sacrifices you have all made during these unprecedented times.

Note:The wonderful Nurses featured in the images in this post are very much alive and continue to serve humanity to the best of their capacity. For more information about the special day, refer to the references below. 

REFERENCES:
* International Nurses Day 2020|ICN

* Nurses' Day 12 May|RCN

* WHO|Nursing