About

My Long COVID Journey

Like so many others, my long COVID journey began quietly in 2021, here in the UK. After what seemed like a mild case of COVID-19, I thought I was on the road to recovery. But then the symptoms crept in.

First, it was the breathlessness, I found myself unable to read my child a story or sing a lullaby without struggling for air. Simple tasks like climbing the stairs became incredibly difficult. Leaving the house was no longer an option, except for urgent matters like countless trips to A&E and doctor’s appointments.

Then came the chest pain. My heart rate would spike to 180 beats per minute as if I were running a marathon. I started to question whether my smartwatch was broken. Soon after, overwhelming fatigue set in, followed by a wave of strange and unsettling physical symptoms. It felt as though my body was changing in ways I couldn’t understand, and nothing seemed to help.

By 2022, after months of pushing through and wondering if I was imagining it all, I was formally diagnosed with long COVID. It was a relief to have a name, but it also opened the door to a world of uncertainty.

These symptoms weren’t just “in my head”; they affected every part of my body. From autonomic dysfunction like a resting heart rate that felt like a cardio workout to evidence of organ damage, the toll on my health was undeniable.

Some issues have become more manageable over time, but recovery is far from straightforward. I’m still learning how to navigate the complexities of the various conditions uncovered during this journey trying to remain functional while respecting my limits. It’s not a sprint, it’s a marathon I never signed up for, with an unknown finish line.

What You’ll Find on This Blog

This blog focuses on mild to moderate long COVID, based on my personal experience here in the UK. I recognise that people with severe long COVID face even greater challenges. While I can’t speak from that perspective, I hope this space provides some support and a sense of connection.

Whether you’re living with long COVID or supporting someone who is, you’ll find:

  • Practical tips to manage symptoms like fatigue, brain fog, and heart rate issues
  • Simple, energy-saving strategies such as pacing and daily planning
  • Personal stories, the highs, the lows, and the absurd moments
  • Reflections on medical experiences and navigating care
  • Honest conversations about hope, frustration, and finding balance

Long COVID can feel isolating, but you’re not alone. This space is all about connection, community, and sharing what helps.

Why I Write This Blog

When long COVID disrupted my life, it turned everything I thought I knew upside down. Writing became my way of processing, reflecting, and staying connected to others walking a similar path.

My goals are simple:

  • Raise awareness of long COVID and its impact
  • Share practical tools that make daily life more manageable
  • Offer empathy, lightness, and, when possible, a bit of humour

Recovery is a long road. While I’m still walking it, I hope this blog can be a place where others find guidance, comfort, and shared strength.

Gratitude for the Support Along the Way

Living with long COVID has been one of the toughest experiences of my life. But it has also shown me the power of compassion and community.

I’m deeply thankful to:

  • The researchers and medical professionals working tirelessly to understand long COVID
  • Charities and advocacy groups like Long COVID Support, Long COVID SOS, POTS UK, and the Asthma + Lung UK Foundation
  • The ME/CFS, Lyme, MCAS, autoimmune, HIV, and post-viral communities, who have long advocated for recognition and research
  • My NHS specialists and private healthcare providers, who’ve helped manage my symptoms, despite early dismissals
  • My mental health and coaching team, who saw this as a physical illness early on and encouraged me to keep pushing for answers
  • My family and friends, for their unwavering love, patience, and belief in me

Stay Connected and Share Your Journey

Feel free to share your experiences or ask questions, I’d love to hear from you. Your story matters.

Be sure to check back for new content, updates, and tips. If you’re living with long COVID, remember: your energy is precious. I aim to keep posts brief, clear, and accessible, especially for those managing brain fog or fatigue.

Disclaimer

This blog shares personal experiences and opinions, including those of guest contributors. I am not a medical professional. Please consult a qualified healthcare provider for personalised medical advice.

No responsibility is assumed for actions taken based on the information provided.