Dad says he 'owes his life' to doctors and nurses who cared for him during five-week coronavirus battle

Anthony Seery, 58, spent five weeks in hospital fighting for his life against Covid-19 including three weeks on a ventilator while in a coma.

He was rushed into the Urgent and Emergency Care Department at the University Hospital of North Tees in Stockton on Thursday, April 2, after a week feeling unwell at home.

His condition quickly deteriorated due to pre-existing medical conditions and doctors made the decision to place him in a medically induced coma to give him the best chance.

Medics worked around the clock to closely monitor Anthony’s condition and keep in touch with his worried wife Joyce who was unable to see him for the full five weeks.

Anthony, from Billingham, said: “Through sheer grit and determination, I feel like I have defied the odds.

“For me it was never a question of if I would get out of North Tees, but when.

“I don’t remember much of my time in hospital, but from what I do remember, I owe my life to each and every one of the doctors and nurses who looked after me.”

After coming out of the coma, Anthony struggled to speak at first and he has been working hard on his rehabilitation.

He can now walk around the house unaided, which he says is a huge achievement after what he has been through.

“I’m determined to build my muscles back up, and eventually to get back to work,” he said.

Anthony is also looking forward to being able to hug his family again including his two sons, two step-sons, step-daughter and eight grandchildren.

Specialist nurse Clare Fletcher who helped care for Anthony said: “I am absolutely delighted to see how well Anthony has recovered so far. His journey has been a turbulent one, but he’s now finally coming out of the other side.”

Anthony’s wife Joyce added: “He never ceases to amaze me, my number one hero.

“We’re ready to make years more memories together!”

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