A Scottish woman who was placed in a medically induced coma after contracting Covid-19 has woken up unable to walk or talk. Ania Turska, 42, fell critically ill in August 2021 and had to be ventilated before being put into a coma. Ania, who had no pre-existing health conditions, was described as being “perfectly functioning” before her battle with the virus, according to her friend Anna Starobrat.
Upon regaining consciousness, Ania was diagnosed with severe polyneuropathy, leaving her unable to move any part of her body. She is now undergoing intensive therapy to try to regain her ability to walk and talk. Ania, a Polish immigrant living in Edinburgh, is currently learning to speak again and breathe independently during the day, but still requires oxygen support at night.
Ania’s journey to recovery has been challenging, with her mother providing unwavering support by her side. Despite her determination, Ania continues to face significant daily challenges as she works to regain her muscle strength and basic movements. With ongoing intensive rehabilitation, she is slowly making progress in moving her legs, although she is not yet able to walk independently.
A fundraiser has been launched by those close to Ania to raise funds for her specialized rehabilitation in Poland, where she could receive personalized and intensive therapy. The programme aims to provide Ania with a dedicated team of specialists to help her progress towards independence. However, the cost of £15,000 for this care is currently out of reach for Ania’s supporters.
Ania’s story serves as a poignant reminder of the ongoing impact of Covid-19 on individuals, even long after their initial diagnosis. The road to recovery for many survivors, like Ania, can be arduous and demand relentless determination and support.
In addition to raising funds for Ania’s care, her journey highlights the importance of continued research and support for those facing long-term effects of the virus. As communities come together to support individuals like Ania, they demonstrate the power of solidarity and compassion in the face of adversity. Together, we can help individuals on their path to recovery and resilience.