Jan Ehtash, 60, had to be put into a medically induced coma on Christmas Eve after suffering from severe breathing difficulties due to Covid-19 but she made a miraculous recovery and now feels “lucky to be alive”
A mum has reflected on her Christmas Eve scare as she was plunged into a coma and forced to phone her loved ones fearing it could be for the last time.
Jan Ehtash faced the chilling reality of possibly not waking up again after being admitted to St. Helier Hospital with severe COVID-related breathing problems.
The 60 year old mum reflected on the frightening ordeal which began in December 2020, expecting a brief hospital visit but instead found herself facing a terrifying extended stay.
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Her health took a nosedive just as the festive season peaked, leading to an emergency intervention and placement on a ventilator on Christmas Eve.
A heart-wrenching final call ensued, where she told her family: “When they admitted me to the ward, the first thing I saw was the Christmas tree outside my room,” Jan shared.
Overrun with optimism despite the grim situation, she thought, “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 doctors delivered the grave news that enduring the night might not be possible. She said, “They told my family I might not survive the night. My daughter cried over the phone, begging me to be strong.”
In defiance of the bleak predictions, Jan miraculously pulled through. Missed holiday celebrations turned into moments of hope as she awakened five weeks later, confounding fears and expectations.
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.”
