Michael Rosen has long-lasting damage after contracting Covid in 2020. The 77-year-old was placed in intensive care for seven weeks, beds away from Kate Garraway’s husband Derek Draper, who died aged 56 last week.
Just like the former lobbyist, Michael was placed into a coma but pulled through after 40 days and being told he had a 50/50 chance of waking up. His health battle didn’t stop there however, as the author was then faced with the challenge of having to learn to walk again.
In an update shared with Express.co.uk, Michael said he is now “mostly fine” but has long-lasting damage such as little sight in his left eye, a lack of hearing in his left ear as well as barely having any feeling left in his toes. According to Mayo Clinic, ongoing health problems after Covid can vary depending on age and health.
It also states: “Organ damage could play a role. People who had severe illness with COVID-19 might experience organ damage affecting the heart, kidneys, skin and brain.
“Inflammation and problems with the immune system can also happen. It isn’t clear how long these effects might last. The effects also could lead to the development of new conditions, such as diabetes or a heart or nervous system condition.”
The NHS also states that long Covid is a new condition which is still being studied.
After contracting Covid in 2020, Derek suffered from a number of health issues such as kidney failure, damage to his liver and pancreas as well as heart failure.
Wife Kate also previously revealed he had holes in his lungs following bacterial pneumonia and several infections.
Most recently, he was rushed back to hospital after having a cardiac arrest just before Christmas.
On Friday, the Good Morning Britain presenter announced he had sadly lost his life.
Michael said of Derek’s death: “I was extremely sorry to hear that Derek Draper had died and send heartfelt best wishes to Kate and the whole family.
“I felt linked to what Derek and Kate were going through because Derek and I shared the same intensive care unit.
“I think Kate had done a brave and important thing to have shown us what happened as it shines a light on the kinds of things that have happened to thousands of others across the country.”
Kate has since thanked fans for the ongoing support she has received after announcing the news.
In a video shared on Good Morning Britain this week, she shared: “I’m so lucky to feel connected to you all through these messages at this time when the raw pain of grief can be so isolating.
“I am certain that it is the support that you have given me and sent to Derek that has sustained us through these tough nearly four years, motivating us to fight on for each other and for those who can’t fight for themselves and it will sustain us to continue that fight in the weeks and months and years to come.
“I look forward to waking up with you very soon again on Good Morning Britain to celebrate life in all its wonder and challenge again.”
