"Pulmonary Rehabilitation"

A severe bout of Covid-19 in May 2020 resulted in me being admitted to intensive care for 3 weeks then on a post-covid ward for another 4 weeks. During that time I developed pneumonia, a pulmonary embolism, fibrosis and severe anxiety (or PTSD). I also lost 3 stone in weight due to muscle wastage.

Back at home I was helped by a wonderful physiotherapist from Carlton Rehab team who gave me the encouragement to follow her exercises to improve my strength and breathing. Unfortunately, this could only last for 6 weeks. I persevered with the exercises afterwards but the improvement was a little too gradual.

Eventually in October 2021 I was referred onto the 12 session PR program. This was great. The staff were professional, friendly, knowledgeable and approachable and I did feel myself improving but still struggling with breathlessness much of the time. Despite my best efforts at post-program exercise, my breathlessness still caused me anxiety and worry as I explained to my respiratory consultant. He considered that I would benefit from another PR program, so in March 2023, I started again. Same wonderful and helpful staff to help me. I knew what to expect but 12 sessions was, I believe, too short for me. I also knew that such a program would not cure me but it was good to hear their encouragement and empathy. All in all, I have no complaints whatsoever about the PR team