Woman immersed in the nightmare of a Covid coma that lasted a month

A university student who was in a coma for a month after contracting Covid-19 has spoken about her nightmare – and how she never gave up. Daniella Taylor, 29, faced severe complications from the virus, including sepsis, and had to be put on a ventilator and put into a medically induced coma.

She only started her studies at the University of Central Lancashire three weeks before she fell ill and had to take a year off to recover. Despite the setbacks, Daniella has now gained a first-class degree in occupational therapy, admitting she “many times” doubted her ability to continue.

Daniella said: “There were so many times when I didn’t think I would make it. It was a challenge to complete my course with my mental illness and physical disabilities, but I persevered and continued because of the amazing support of my family. And friends.

“I was determined to finish and work hard to get a good grade. The course kept me going and gave me purpose despite everything.”

In 2020, Daniella contracted Covid-19 and her family was told to prepare for the worst. Due to the isolation measures, they could not visit her in the hospital.

After discharge, he required carers four times a day and suffered from post intensive care syndrome, prolonged covid and post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Reflecting on the ordeal, she said: “My family were told to prepare for the worst and it was made even more difficult because they couldn’t come to see me because it was during the strict Covid restrictions.

“I missed most of the first semester because I was in the hospital. I initially returned to university a month after being discharged – however I had a delayed trauma response.

“I got sick again and had to make the decision to take a year off from my studies due to my ongoing health difficulties. day.

“It was such a difficult time, I felt hopeless and mentally struggled with PTSD, depression and survivor’s guilt, but I knew I wanted to get back on my course. With the help of the one-to-one tutor, I taught my modules. I missed it while I was in the hospital and completed the assessments I missed.

“Throughout the course I was able to do my placements with reasonable adjustments due to my new ongoing health conditions. I had amazing support from my Year Leader and my tutors.

“They were very understanding of my difficulties and did everything they could to support me and make sure I was doing well.” She now plans to work on her recovery before starting a part-time job in the NHS, with the hope that over the years she can build up to full-time work.

Daniella said: “Just before I got Covid I had input from an occupational therapist. She inspired me to retrain and give back to others.

“I love the work I do and this has been my ‘calling’ as I have changed my life and want to help others.”