A mum has reflected on her health scare as she was plunged into a coma and forced to phone her loved ones fearing it could be for the last time before she was put into a medically induced coma.
The 60 year old mother suffered severe breathing difficulties due to COVID and was admitted to St.Helier Hospital’s intensive care in December 2020, expecting a brief stay. However, her condition worsened rapidly, leading to her being ventilated on December 24.
With her life hanging in the balance, Jan made an emotional phone call home, Jan explained: “When they admitted me to the ward, the first thing I saw was the Christmas tree outside my room. I kept thinking, ‘I’ll be out by Christmas’. But I ended up staying for three months. I had to call my family to say goodbye before I was put into a coma.”
The grim prognosis was shared with her loved ones: “They told my family I might not survive the night. My daughter cried over the phone, begging me to be strong.” Against all odds, Jan survived past the festive season, awakening five weeks later.
Having made a full recovery, Jan can now enjoy this year’s festive season at home, surrounded by her grateful family. Immensely appreciative of the life-saving efforts of the medical team who sacrificed their own holidays, Jan honours the devotion of NHS staff with her tale of resilience and recovery.
“I couldn’t move or speak, but they found ways to make me feel less alone. One nurse held my hand when I needed it most — these people are amazing. I’m lucky to be alive.”
