Bath Covid patients share stories in tribute to RUH
Gary, Caroline and Lee all nearly died in hospital but lived to tell the tale
Three people, who were so ill with coronavirus they almost died at Bath's Royal United Hospital (RUH), have paid tribute to the care they were given.
Gary, Caroline and Lee have all shared their stories so others can better understand what it is like to be that ill and what it is like for loved ones.
The hospital has put out the video to highlight the message that coronavirus has not gone away and to urge people to continue wearing masks and getting the vaccine when eligible.
Medical Director Bernie Marden said: “Our intensive care team go above and beyond to look after the medical needs of our patients, but also the emotional needs of patients and their loved ones too.
"We’re really proud of them.
“In the video our patients talk really movingly about what it was like to be so near death," she continues.
"Of course we don’t want any of our patients and their loved ones to experience that, but that’s the stark reality of COVID-19.
“Unfortunately COVID-19 hasn’t gone away, and it’s vital we all remain vigilant."
On Monday (15 November) the RUH tweeted saying there are currently 37 people being treated in the hospital with either confirmed or suspected Covid-19.
The hospital regularly shares the statistic in a bid to encourage people not to visit the hospital's A&E department unless in a genuine emergency.
Caroline Jones fell ill last Christmas.
“We’d been very cautious about spending Christmas together but unfortunately one of us got Covid, then all of us got it," she said.
“I ended up a couple of hours away from passing away.
"I could send a couple of quick text messages to tell friends what was happening, then for two weeks it was like I was in a cavern. I was in a coma essentially.
“I was in intensive care for 33 days. When I came to I couldn’t speak, I couldn’t write, I couldn’t move my legs.
“I view every moment of life as a precious gift and I’ve been given a gift, mostly due to this amazing hospital and the staff who were my family.
I’m so grateful to them. I’m one of the lucky ones.”