Paul, one of the PVA committee, was treated for Covid in hospital – here are his experiences and advice.

Introduction

We brought home C19 with the shopping, bargain offer not to be missed! Even with a face mask, gloves and the normal precautions, within 8 days we were showing symptoms.  Every case is individual so I will not dwell on symptoms etc., but preparation can play a part in offsetting the experience and making life a little better. I had plenty of time to think over what would have benefitted me had I known what was coming.

Put your trust in Stoke Mandeville and its front line staff and take great comfort from knowing that they will do their best by you!

Testing and reacting.

Once we realised that we might have C19 , we went on the NHS website and ordered a home testing kit. Service was quick and efficient and although I didn’t enjoy doing it, we processed the whole thing and got our positive results with the minimum of fuss or inconvenience.   I was the one fated to get the worst reaction and it was the positive result and my wife’s alertness to the slow deterioration in my breathing that resulted in a call to 111 early on the 10th day. The NHS got into gear at once and thus began my “adventure”.

The NHS in action

Few of us have cause, in the normal course of events, to go to hospital; we rely on anecdotes and opinions. My opinion of my destination, Stoke Mandeville Hospital, was not favourable: how wrong I was.   From the first responder, to the ambulance, through A&E and onto the respiratory ward my experience was simply first class. Yes, I am deeply grateful to the NHS medical people and front line staff but speaking objectively and not from the heart, if you or your loved one has to go to Stoke Mandeville, you will be in the hands of professional, dedicated and caring people. It is a bit ironic to say it, given why I was there, but the experience was “breath taking”!

Be prepared

My top tip is get yourself ready. Make up a bag of essentials for each of you so that if you are whisked off, you are prepared to make the best of things.  The hospital will supply you with a snazzy line in green PJ’s or gowns, but you will want to come home in something more suitable. So pack your “escape kit” of clothing for when you are discharged including shoes. Your own toiletries will make you feel a little better, but the basics will be supplied if you forget anything.

The days of hospital radio, TVs to hire and coin phones are a happy memory along with “Carry on Doctor”; the Wifi is terrific and a real life saver. Smart phone, tablet, power line and adaptor – get them ready because they are going to make life so much better.

I kept in touch with the PVA, South West Bucks MS Society and so many friends and well wishers; I was truly humbled but equally motivated to do my part in recovery. The benefit of letting my family know my progress helped them to help me; I only had to focus on one thing – getting better.  I got through three books in 11 days and they made a break from the internet.

Like many people, I steered well clear of the News, indeed one NHS leaflet specifically recommended avoidance. (A common opinion on the ward is that the Broadcast Media has been worse than the pandemic and done nobody any favours. Whilst they focus on the negative and maudlin, they are failing to report on the way in which the Medics have risen to the challenge and achieved significant advances through experience. Loathing smug reporters does give you a positive outlet for your emotions though!)

Sharing a Ward

I started in my own room; seemed good at the time. But I owe much to my room mates Ross, John and David for their companionship and mutual support, when I moved in with them. You soon get used to communal life and put up with snoring, coughing and other rather noisy events.    Lighting is not ideal some nights; I compared it to sleeping in a cell in the Lubyanka. You have plenty of time for catch up naps but an eye shade would help. Don’t be afraid to ask if a light can be dimmed; but if it is essential you will have to go with the flow.

Eating

I doubt we’ll see the Great British NHS bake off, but surprisingly once I worked out the system the food was an important part of my recovery. It was once appalling, but generally it was quite good given the financial realities. Get hold of a menu and select carefully, eating will be a big part of your day.  Regular supplies of hot drinks helped physically and morale wise. Be sensitive though, this is not a hotel and the Nurses in particular work very, very hard. Cut them some slack!

What else?

Do as you are told; do not overdo it, steady as she goes! Stoke Mandeville want to get you home but only when you are fit. When you are discharged the virtual Covid ward will take over with continued support; they have got this worked out, you will not be alone.

Fear is natural, especially of the unknown. Now you know a little more, I hope that it will ease your mind. Prevention is far better than cure, but if you need help, be confident and put your trust in our health care professionals