Three NHS Fife departments are set to benefit from a generous donation to the Fife Health Charity following an impressive fundraising effort by former COVID patient, Niall Williams.
The Intensive Care Unit and the Physiotherapy Department in the Victoria Hospital, Kirkcaldy, along with the Sir George Sharp Unit in Cameron Hospital, Leven, which specialises in neurological rehabilitation, will share £25,444 to support staff and patients within both facilities in the months and years ahead.
A fit and active person with no underlying health issues, Dalgety Bay resident Niall caught COVID-19 in March 2020 when he was 48 years old. Hospitalised at the end of the same month due to the impact of the virus, the Explorer Scout leader subsequently spent 95 days in ICU at Victoria Hospital.
During that time, Niall suffered multiple complications as a result of coronavirus infection, even spending an extended period in an induced coma. This led to lack of mobility and inability to do basic tasks like moving, walking, talking and eating once he regained consciousness.
Following his discharge from ICU, Niall spent some time in Ward 43 at the Victoria Hospital, then was transferred to the Sir George Sharp Unit, where he spent a further three months undergoing a range of specialised rehabilitation therapies to help recovery, regain strength and begin the process of rebuilding his life.
Explaining the motivation to launch his unique challenge, Niall said:
"I wanted to show my appreciation and give back to the NHS that ultimately saved my life. Challenge 95 was born, where I challenged myself and friends to do something relating to the number of days I spent in ICU.
"I challenged myself to walk 95 miles in 95 days. This was a real challenge for me, as when I left hospital, I was unable to walk unaided. I also wanted to do something that would help me appreciate just how long 95 days is."
