A determined mum is celebrating her graduation – two years after almost losing her life twice in a matter of days.

Cheryl McCormack was delighted when she fell pregnant, during the second year of her studies at University of the West of Scotland (UWS) – but what followed was a challenging pregnancy, that culminated medics fighting to ensure the 36-year-old survived childbirth.

She said: “It was extremely difficult, I felt unwell and I required multiple iron infusions. I was also in severe pain – beyond what was normal, and I didn’t understand why. Initially, neither did the doctors.

“What I didn’t know at the time – and none of us knew - was that I had two blood clots in my lungs.”

This turned her body into a ticking timebomb – and meant that giving birth was extremely dangerous.

ABOVE: Dr Ann-Sophie Korb and Cheryl McCormack

Remarkably, as medical staff fought for her wellbeing, the BSc Forensic Science student tried to keep herself occupied by working on university coursework.

She added: “I had never felt so ill in all my life, and there was a lot of activity around me, but all I could think about was that I didn’t want to fall behind in my studies. For me, it was imperative to continue with my uni work for the future of my children.  

“But the pain continued to grow – and I had to tell them just how unwell I was feeling. Thankfully I was able to give birth, but I wasn’t in a good way. The pain in my chest continued to get worse, and I had no idea why.”

Despite this – and being made aware that she’d almost died – Cheryl left the hospital relatively quickly; determined to return to day-to-day life.

But the blood clots had still not been discovered – meaning her life was still at risk.

She said: “Over the next few days things got worse. I couldn’t walk, and it got to the point where I couldn’t even hold my daughter, which felt awful.

“I had several trips to the hospital – my midwife had to persuade me to go, as I wanted to power on through. It hurt to breath, and I was struggling but I’d convinced myself things wouldn’t change.

“Eventually, a scan detected the blood clots – and I realised just how lucky I was, and how close I was – both inside and out of the hospital – to not even being here today.

“I wanted to share my story because I want people to be aware of the signs, and to say if something feels wrong, don’t ignore it. I am lucky to be here today, and the thought of what might have happened is scary.”

Throughout the ordeal, Cheryl was in regular contact with lecturer Dr Ann-Sophie Korb, who offered support.

Cheryl added: “Dr Korb was amazing, and I want to thank her for everything she’s done. She’s been amazing, and has made a lasting impact in my life. I’m eternally grateful to her. I hadn’t realised how much support is available at university, but even with that, Dr Korb went above and beyond.

“As far as my graduation is concerned, I’m not sure I’d be receiving my degree if not for her.”

Dr Ann-Sophie Korb said: “Cheryl is an incredible, dedicated student who has overcome unimaginable circumstances to graduate this week. I’m really proud of her, and I have no doubt that she will go on to make an impact on the world.

“She is inspirational – and not only because of what she has overcome. Her passion for learning in itself makes her a great role model for current and future students.”