Published on: 20 October 2021
A patient has thanked the teams of doctors and nurses who saved his life from COVID-19 – and urged people to get jabbed after his vaccines lessened the impact of the virus.
Michael Evans was taken to South Tyneside District Hospital three months ago by his brother-in-law after he woke up one night and was unable to catch his breath.
During his treatment, the 68-year-old from Jarrow had to be ventilated and also proned, where a patient is put on their front to help them breathe.
He spent six weeks on the hospital’s Intensive Therapy Unit (ITU) before being moved to its respiratory ward as he continued to be cared for ahead of his return home.
The retired Heathrow Airport warehouseman moved to the North East three years ago to live with his twin sister Marion and her husband after he visited and fell in love with the region.
Speaking as he prepared to head home, Michael said: “I can’t really remember much of what happened and I can’t remember how I got to ITU.
“They had me on my belly, so I could breathe better, but that’s about it.
“I’m now feeling a lot better, but I still get breathless obviously and I’ve been doing physio and they’re really pleased with my progress.
“I cannot thank them enough for what they have done and if it wasn’t for them, I don’t think I would be here.
“The doctors and nurses have been fantastic and I’ve been so well looked after.”
Michael has also encouraged people to get their COVID-19 vaccinations, as well as the third booster jab when they are called up.
The NHS is also urging anyone entitled to get their flu jab to ensure they are protected with this winter being the first where both viruses are circulating together following the easing of lockdown.
Michael added: “I’ve had both of my COVID-19 jabs and the doctor told me that it did help to save me, as he said he didn’t think I’d be here if I hadn’t had them.
“People need to get them, 100%, and I would encourage them too, it certainly saved me and helped the doctors and nurses at that.”
ITU Consultant Sanjay Deshpande helped lead Michael’s care and says his case shines a light on the dedication and hard work of his colleagues.
“After Michael became ill with COVID-19, he spent a lot of time in ITU and had a long period of treatment, but he’s made a fantastic recovery during his stay,” Mr Deshpande said.
“This is testament to the outstanding care that our fantastic teams have given throughout the pandemic.
“But COVID-19 has not gone away and I would absolutely urge anyone who has not yet received both dose of the vaccine, or is eligible to have the booster to do so as soon as possible.
"Being vaccinated does make a huge difference and could protect you and your family from serious illness.”
Ward manager Joanne Simm is among the nursing staff who have helped lead care on the hospital’s COVID-19 wards.
She said: “We are so pleased to see that Michael is on the road to recovery and we wish him and his family all the best.
“Our teams have worked tirelessly to care for patients and it is always brilliant to see someone recover from a serious illness and return home to their loved ones.
“The most important message for people out in our communities is to get both COVID vaccinations and protect themselves and others. It really is for the best and we have seen first-hand the difference it can make.”
