“Burning sensation in chest and lungs, crushing chest sensation, extreme fatigue, new stomach cramps and pain. Never felt like this before”

Diary entry 8th May 3/n
#longcovid #fblc

“Stabbing pain in the lungs. I can’t breathe. Screaming tinnitus. I’m going to hospital now. I’m scared”

Diary entry 13th May 4/n
#longcovid #fblc

“Insomnia is back, pain in the chest / difficulty breathing is back. Feeling extreme fatigue. Simple things are impossible to do. Brain fog is insane. Jet lag, altitude sickness and pneumonia all in one. I’m terrified”

Diary entry 5th July (the first of many relapses) #longcovid

And so it goes on. Endless diary entries. Old and new symptoms cycle in. Some annoying (tinnitus). Some terrifying (crushing chest pain and difficulty breathing). The mental impact of the progression of this nonlinear illness is as bad as the physical. 4/n #longcovid #fblc

And let’s not forget my wife and kids and everyone who has to care for, pick up the slack for and listen to those of us with #longcovid . Often while they are scared and tired themselves too. Kudos to the partners, carers and children. You guys fucking rock 5/n. #fblc

And 🙏 to the NHS and all the brilliant doctors, consultants and nurses who have helped and supported over this past yr. And to those of you in the profession who have lost your curiosity, I plead with you to find a different job. Being gaslighted is fucking horrible. #longcovid

A year later and I’m nowhere near who I used to be. But I’m also no longer that person who wrote those diary entries back in Apr/May/July. I’m getting better. It’s glacial but I am getting better. And one day I will be better. Fuck you #longcovid on the anniversary I never wanted

Dave. Thank you for sharing this. Here’s to glacial and unpredictable continued improvement for you. Coronaversaries should be additional birthdays- annual presents to celebrate the achievement of keeping on going!

@lmralph181 It’s helped me understand the meaning of tenacity for sure! And yes deffo! I’m all for more presents and gifts!! Hope you are well today.

Dave. Oh no doubt! Went for a scan, that’s me out of action for a few days now with exhaustion but hope it helps access treatment!

@lmralph181 Ooh I hope it gives you the answers you are looking for. Good luck. Xx