Sue Snelson, a retired critical care nurse from Scunthorpe, is five years into battling long Covid symptoms that began after she contracted the virus in May 2020. Despite initial relief when her pneumonia was treated, ongoing fatigue, joint pain, poor sleep and memory loss have persisted.
Sue believes her issues stem from the original Covid-19 infection and worries it will only worsen over time. “It’s a continuation of the symptoms I had right at the beginning,” she says. She was initially terrified after witnessing colleagues’ struggles with post-viral illnesses and is now concerned about her own declining health.
The Office for National Statistics (ONS) reports around 1.9 million people in the UK self-reported long Covid, with fatigue being the most common symptom. New research shows NHS clinics for long Covid patients have halved, but rehabilitation services remain available. Sue’s determination to cope with her condition is evident despite her reduced mobility and lack of spontaneity.
Sue, who managed a return to work albeit in a different role, says her life has been significantly impacted by the ongoing symptoms. “I’m determined not to let it beat me altogether,” she declares.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c36wrln1p68o