Kathryn’s Fibromyalgia and Long Covid Journey

I was a sporty teenager and started working at 14. At 18, I developed Pernicious Anaemia, followed by Hypothyroidism a year later, and my health began to decline. I was frequently diagnosed with new conditions. In 2004, while on maternity leave, I was diagnosed with patella tracking disorder and degenerative disc disease—my spine was described as that of a 60-year-old. My knee dislocated repeatedly, requiring multiple surgeries, and worsening pain, depression, and anxiety eventually forced me to give up work. I also had carpal tunnel surgery and two further knee operations while caring for my daughter.

In 2007, I was diagnosed with Fibromyalgia, thought to be triggered by my body struggling to cope with numerous health issues including POTS, arthritis, degenerative bone disease, asthma, and PTSD. Each day became a challenge, but with family support, pacing, and rest, I managed. Later, I had a titanium disc inserted in my neck and a spinal fusion, both of which worsened my Fibromyalgia for a time.

My biggest health crisis came in 2021. My husband caught Covid-19 at work and soon I became ill too. By 6th August, my breathing was so bad that my husband called an ambulance. My oxygen levels were in the 40s, and I was rushed to hospital, diagnosed with severe Covid pneumonitis and bacterial pneumonia. Doctors said they needed to induce a coma to ventilate me, warning I might not wake up. My survival chances were just 30%.

I was placed on a ventilator and treated with antivirals, antibiotics, and 100% oxygen with nitrous oxide. I was nearly sent to England for ECMO but was proned several times instead. On the fourth attempt, my oxygen finally stabilised. Fourteen days later, I woke up—a “miracle,” the doctor said. My husband and daughter had even said their goodbyes while I was in the coma.

Soon after, I developed a blood and heart infection, requiring IV antibiotics through a PICC line. I then had to relearn how to walk and rebuild my strength. Just sitting up was exhausting. Gradually, with physiotherapy, I moved from standing to using a rollator. My swallow was affected from intubation, so I was on soft foods for a week. I lost half my hair, which only began regrowing after 6–8months, and my eyesight weakened, needing glasses.

After a month in hospital, I was discharged, but recovery was slow. Persistent breathlessness led to a diagnosis of ongoing pneumonia, treated with steroids over several months. Eventually, I was diagnosed with Long Covid–induced M.E. I now live with COPD, mild dysphagia, uneven pupils, worsened fatigue, pain, and mobility issues."

A few months later, I found Hope 4 ME & Fibro N.I., where I’ve received invaluable support and understanding, and found renewed focus and purpose , through home-based volunteering as admin support, when my health allows.”

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