How he won the Covid-19 battle with composure
LUCKNOW: It turned out to be an over fortnight-long battle against Covid-19 and retired bureaucrat Shahabuddin Mohammad, 65, faced the challenge with composure, ultimately emerging victorious.
He returned home on April 14 after spending 17 days at Sanjay Gandhi Post Gandhi Institute of Medical Sciences (SGPGIMS), including six days in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) as his oxygen level dropped.
“Keep the spirit high and never let the oxygen level come down. Drink lots of hot water, take fruits like apple, grapes, orange and try to live in a positive frame of mind even if you are surrounded by several people who have tested positive and are spreading negativity,” said Shahabuddin Mohammad who retired in 2016 as commissioner, housing.
He tested positive on March 26 after showing early symptoms of high fever, cold and cough since March 22.
“Went for CT scan and was diagnosed with lung infection. As my oxygen level was below par, I was fortunate to get admitted at SGPGIMS where I was treated well by the doctors and the medical staff,” he said. When he was in ICU for six days, his oxygen level dipped. “But it was my strong willpower that helped me fight Covid-19. Of course, the doctors took good care. Stayed in touch with the family via phone. My wife Farzana Sahab and daughter Saharish, who is in RPF, stood as pillars of strength,” he said.
Shahabuddin’s wife also tested positive but she preferred home isolation and recovered well. As this retired bureaucrat came out of the ICU, his family started sending daily meals and hot water in a flask.
“Their perseverance and prayers helped me in my recovery,” he said.
He now advises all to wear a mask and step out of the house only if it is necessary. “There’s no point in going outside when the virus is so infectious. This strain is quite worrying for all. It’s time to stay positive and pray in unison for humanity,” he said.
He is hopeful that this difficult period will also pass provided citizens start taking precautions and do not lower their guard. Regular use of mask and hand sanitizer is a must to stay protected against Covid-19, he says.