A dad who caught Covid and was put in a coma has started showing signs of recovery in what has been described as a ‘Christmas miracle’.
Michael Taylor first fell ill after contracting the virus on October 31.
The 41-year-old, from Tameside, complained of symptoms including a sore throat and sharp pains behind his eyes.
He was rushed to Tameside General Hospital just a few days later after paramedics were called to his home.
On arrival, Michael was immediately placed into a coma.
This was to protect the transplanted kidney he received from his brother Paul 15 years ago.
But within three weeks, Michael developed Covid pneumonia.
His condition then deteriorated rapidly.
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Michael caught numerous infections including sepsis in his lungs.
He was placed on a ventilator as doctors fought to save his life.
After five weeks, he was transferred to Manchester Royal Infirmary where he developed a fungal infection.
His heartbroken family were losing hope by the day and had no idea whether he would pull through.
That was until his blood pressure started return to normal and his oxygen levels stabilised.
“It’s just been horrendous,” Michael’s partner, Leanne Bayley, told the Manchester Evening News.
“Those weeks were the worst time of my life.
“From the day he went into hospital he was declining.
“We only had this tiny bit of hope left.
“I still believed he would get through it even though on the fourth week when I lost all hope.
“I’m just keeping everything crossed at the moment.”
Currently, nurses are trying to take Michael off his ventilator for a few hours a day so he can breathe on his own.
He is also having physiotherapy sessions where nurses hoist him from his bed in a standing position.
This is also to help with breathing.
Leanne says he has recently started opening his eyes and even managed to smile earlier this week.
The 37-year-old continued: “I believe in the power of prayer.
“Oldham Athletic did a one-minute applause and the Everton manager wished him well. We had so much support.
“That week, Mike started picking up and I had hope again.
“Over the last two weeks, he has progressed massively.
“He’s just started coming off oxygen and ventilation. He woke up and smiled at the nurses this morning.
“When he was infected with sepsis, I thought that was it.
“Mike's mum Pat and brother Paul have gone through so much and kept me informed every step of the way. Their support has been comforting too.
“The nurses say it’s miraculous. They’re astounded.
“They have worked so hard for Michael.
“To me now, nothing else matters – he's alive.”
A fundraiser has been set up to help pay for a new bed for Michael’s recovery when he eventually returns home.
So far, it has raised £290 out of its £600 goal.
To donate, follow the link by clicking here.
