A woman, Janet Johnston-Oger, shares her harrowing experience with long Covid, highlighting the debilitating effects it had on her daily life. Janet, a 50-year-old translator from Northern Ireland, found herself bed-bound and unable to carry out basic tasks like making food or watching TV due to the severity of the illness. Previously leading an active lifestyle that involved swimming, brisk walks, and social activities, Janet’s life took a drastic turn after contracting long Covid.
The onset of symptoms following her Covid infections included night sweats, insomnia, anxiety, dizziness, palpitations, migraines, and extreme exhaustion, among others. Janet’s symptoms were initially dismissed by her GP, who attributed them to menopause, despite her escalating distress. It took 18 months for Janet to receive a long Covid diagnosis, during which time she struggled with debilitating symptoms and sought treatment for her condition.
Describing her journey of seeking medical help and facing challenges in accessing appropriate care, Janet emphasises the importance of raising awareness about long Covid. She recounts feeling isolated and misunderstood during her battle with the illness, with her daily routine limited to basic activities due to extreme fatigue and other debilitating symptoms. However, with the support of healthcare professionals and tailored treatments like hormone replacement therapy (HRT), Janet has seen gradual improvements in her condition.
Reflecting on her experience, Janet acknowledges the profound impact long Covid has had on her life, prompting a reevaluation of her priorities and a newfound appreciation for small moments of joy and resilience. Despite the ongoing challenges in her recovery journey, Janet remains hopeful and encourages others facing similar struggles to persevere and hold onto glimpses of improvement. Her story serves as a poignant reminder of the long-lasting effects of long Covid and the resilience required to navigate its uncertain path to recovery.