Croydon hospital cheers Covid-19 survivor who fought infection for nearly a month

IN a sign of hope and positivity in these bleak days, a south London hospital celebrated the recovery of its first Covid-19 patient to be discharged from intensive care.

A video posted by the Croydon University Hospital on social media shows local resident Jothy Kesavan, 51, who was hospitalised for nearly a month, being applauded by medical staff as she exits her ward.

An overwhelmed Kesavan profusely thanks the staff before being greeted by relieved family members with a hug.

"Today we celebrate as local resident Mrs Kesavan heads home after recovering from COVID-19 -- the first patient with coronavirus to be discharged from our ICU," said Croydon Health Services.

"We're thrilled to see her return home to her loved ones and so proud of the work of Team Croydon," the trust said.

Kesavan was admitted to the hospital with symptoms of Covid-19 on March 17 and had to be shifted to ICU with breathing difficulties.

Elaine Clancy, the chief nurse who is leading the Croydon Health Services Trust's response to the coronavirus pandemic, described Kesavan's recovery as "incredible", which gives hope to all those affected by the deadly virus.

"Mrs Kesavan's incredible recovery, alongside the hundreds of other patients with Covid-19 that we have already successfully discharged, reinforces our continued hope for all of those affected," she said.

"Doctors, nurses and other healthcare professionals, both in our intensive care units and on our wards are working around the clock to ensure that all of our patients get the best possible care and I’m very proud of all of their efforts."

The hospital added that more than 300 patients had been discharged from the hospital after receiving treatment for Covid-19.