"Impact truly was transformative"

I was referred to the Northern Health and Social Care Trust Conditions Management Programme following a diagnosis of Long Covid a year previously. This was the first time I received significant intervention for my condition.  

I spent four months with Kelly doing one-on-one sessions as well as partaking in the relevant group sessions. Kelly was absolutely fantastic and her input was incredibly important. She added immense value during the most difficult time in my life where there was so much uncertainty and mental and physical vulnerability. She helped me to develop my 'tool kit' of support which has become invaluable in managing my condition. She improved my confidence drastically and enabled me to take positive, considered steps in my recovery journey. 

Before my admittance to CMP I was extremely emotionally sensitive, easily overwhelmed, socially anxious and struggling to understand and manage my fatigue (and many other long covid symptoms) on my own. Kelly helped me work through my significant worries about the future and allowed me to feel much more confident about going back to university; discussing the necessary support networks I would need to establish and the continued need for pacing. She broke down my long term goal into shorter term, manageable chunks that allowed me to build up my mental and physical strength and stamina over a period of months. 

With Kelly's help I was able to reengage with social interactions, reconnect with old friends and take my first solo trip away in 18 months. She helped me to reframe negative thinking through journalling and meditation which brought calm and relaxation. She was encouraging and supportive about the steps I was taking while remaining professional and appropriate at all times. She never failed to have suggestions of ways I could adapt and integrate activities I loved before my diagnosis back into my life. 

Kelly also referred me to a dietician for my ongoing GI sensitivities, who recommended keeping a food diary and taking probiotics which have provided some relief. 

I could not have had a better experience with Kelly as my first interaction with a health and social service. I am much more confident in managing my condition and her impact truly was transformative. I am very grateful for her involvement in my recovery journey.