"Covid Pneumonia Survivor"

I contracted Covid by being in contact with a "confirmed" family member (without my knowledge) in March 2020, right at the peak of infection levels. It started off with a mild temperature and feeling of tiredness. As the days went on I began getting weaker, with a high temperature, fatigue, sickness and trouble sleeping. My family kept in touch with the local hospital who advised that I cannot be admitted unless I had a continuous cough as part of the symptoms. As I did not develop a cough I stayed at home and tried to self medicate. I became very weak very rapidly, often unable to get out of bed or eat. My temperature was alarmingly high but still no cough. My family were becoming increasingly concerned. When I did start coughing I was so weak I could barely move and I felt like I was in a daze. I have no memory past this point. My family took me to hospital immediately. My oxygen levels had dropped to 69 and I was turning blue. Within 2 hours of admission I was put on a ventilator. 

I remained in an induced coma and on a ventilator for 42 days, with a tracheostomy to help me breathe so my lungs could work. During my coma I also suffered a stroke. My family were told I had very little chances of survival but thankfully I pulled through and was eventually woken up by the staff in ICU, Barnet Hospital. They were absolutely amazing and looked after me so well. I built an excellent relationship with the entire ICU ward.

Initially I had no memory of who I was or where I was. I had no movement, wasn't able to swallow and was fed through a stomach tube. I had intense physiotherapy every day with the staff at Barnet and eventually learned to walk myself. I would especially like to thank the physiotherapist team Barnet for their incredible care and looking after me. I will never forget them.

When I was strong enough to take a few steps unaided, I was moved to Edgware Hospital and under the care of Dr Salma. Without her support and efforts I would have struggled to cope. A brilliant doctor.

I was eventually allowed home after 71 days. It was incredibly emotional to see my husband and two daughters again, I had missed them so much. I continued to receive support at home in the form of weekly physiotherapy and speech therapy.Laura, Evelyn and Emma were fab, their endless support and friendly personality put me at ease straight away. My family gave me so much encouragement and determination to improve. I realised how strong my support system was and it gave me the courage to continue. 

Four months on, I am able to walk (aided) and my voice has improved significantly. I still have weakness in my right arm due to nerve damage, but I have come so far. I can cook, make tea and dress myself. I hope to make a full recovery soon.