Summary

Early in 2021 Arthur contracted Covid-19 and was hospitalised for over 4 weeks and on ventilation in ICU. Walking has been integral to his recovery and has helped him to monitor his progress.

Arthur’s Story

Arthur has been a walker with the Beauly group since 2019 and trained as a walk leader a few months later. After seeing an advert in the GP surgery he originally joined the group to meet new people and to feel healthier. Walking was his preferred activity for exercise. In January 2021 he contracted Covid-19, fell very unwell and was admitted to hospital and put in ICU on a ventilator. When he left hospital on 2nd March he felt mentally in good spirits but very weak and had lost 2 stone. The first week he couldn’t walk up his stairs – crawling was his only option. By week two he could manage the stairs with the banister. By mid-April he ventured on his first walk outside beyond his road end. He chose to go to Redcastle; after the walk he felt breathless, tired and had to use a stick. On 8th April he joined the Beauly group for his first walk since being in hospital – they went to Ruttle woods and he suffered for 4 days afterwards. The group were able to support him to go on a shorter walk the following week and each week he was able to go a bit further.

Impacts/Outcomes

Walking has helped Arthur to regain his strength and mobility following Covid-19 infection and a significant stay in hospital. Joining the walking group each week also acted as a barometer for his improving health.

Testimonial

“Walking as part of a group has helped me after my long stay in hospital. Each week I realised I was getting stronger and stronger, it was motivating to see the improvements.”

Key Learning Points

Walking is a fantastic way to regain strength following illness and hospital stays. Having the option of doing shorter, slower walks as part of the group is an important part of the health walk.