Description
If ever there was a message of hope, resilience and love, it’s the extraordinary and inspiring story of brothers Manni and Reuben Coe. In conversation, the brothers will take you on their heartwarming journey.
Locked down during the Covid pandemic, Reuben became increasingly isolated living in a care home for adults with learning disabilities. For over a year he hadn’t spoken, unable to express his thoughts and feelings except on paper with felt-tip pens. Unsupported by an overstretched care system, Reuben sent his older brother, Manni, a desperate text message: ‘brother. do. you. love. me.’ Leaving his home in Spain, Manni took Reuben out of care and moved them both into a cottage in the countryside to rebuild the bonds of brotherhood and set Reuben on the road to recovery.
The two brothers talk to multi-award-winning broadcaster Kerry Maule about their incredible journey in this unforgettable event which will celebrate the importance of love, care and kindness.
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About the Authors
Manni Coe
Manni Coe grew up in Yorkshire and Berkshire. He studied Latin American history and culture at Edinburgh University, which took him on adventures in South America before he finally settled in Andalucia, Spain. He now lives between Dorset and a tiny town called Archidona. He is the second of four brothers. He works as a private guide in Spain and around the world. brother.do.you.love.me is his first book.
Reuben Coe
Reuben Coe grew up in Berkshire and is the youngest of four brothers. He completed a B-tech in Drama before settling into life in a care home in Newbury. Always open to adventure, he decided to go and live in Spain with his brother Manni. They enjoyed seven sun-filled years together but now Reuben has returned to the UK and lives in North Dorset. He has a passion for drawing. His art has been used by both Norwich and St Paul’s Cathedral and his range of Christmas cards helped raise funds for the NHS during the pandemic. This is the first time his illustrations have appeared in a book.
About the Chair
Kerry Maule
Kerry Maule is a multi-award-winning TV presenter and producer, recognised by the Royal Television Society. She was the face of Local TV in Yorkshire, voice of ITV’s FYI Extra, and now hosts Positively Green, an environmental social channel, positively promoting a greener lifestyle that’s accessible to all. Kerry is also the founder of Grow Productions, an event host, and volunteer at the Leeds Down syndrome charity, Sunshine and Smiles. Kerry has worked for the charity since 2018, offering digital support, assisting at sessions, and taking part in fundraising challenges.
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