Scotia is back home 🏡 🙏

From The Brink and Back Again – My ICU Odyssey

By Scotia

If you’re reading this, then I’ve made it – just about. Still not entirely sure how, but the fact I’m able to type this out (well, slowly, and with the occasional moan) is nothing short of miraculous.

A few weeks ago, I was cruising through life – a seasoned 74-year-old with a few hospital stints under the belt, but nothing to really write home about. Then along came The Virus – name still unknown – that decided to throw me into a 30-day, all-inclusive stay in ICU with some truly horrific extras: panic, tubes, nappies, and a heart machine soundtrack worthy of a Marvel villain.

A Hellish Start
It all kicked off innocently enough: legs turned to jelly, body shook like I was auditioning for Strictly Come Delirious, and off I went to Pretoria East High Care. I was burning up, shaking uncontrollably, and my body felt like it had checked out before I did. Several blood tests, failed stabs at diagnosis, and suddenly I’m in ICU, facing the very real prospect that I might not be making it to the wedding in the UK (sorry, family!).

The first weekend, I came frighteningly close twice to not making it. Then came three more near calls after that. Apparently, I don’t do things in half measures.

Humility, Machines, and Becoming a Baby Again
Here’s something they don’t put in the brochures: 30 days in ICU and you basically regress into a human baby. I’m talking full nappies, daily sponge baths, and an almost complete loss of dignity. Humiliation? Hectic. But necessary.

I had three straight days on a breathing mask – the kind that looks like something from a NASA documentary – and bounced between diarrhoea and constipation, which I can now confirm are both equally hellish in a hospital gown.

Machines beeped nonstop. Lights blinked. I often wondered whether I’d woken up in a casino or a spaceship. And when you're that deep in pain and panic, your mind goes somewhere else – somewhere dark, surreal, and disorientating.

But Then, the Angels
Despite all of it – the tubes, the terror, and the smell of hospital disinfectant – what kept me going were the people.

The nurses and doctors at Pretoria East are not just staff – they’re guardian angels in scrubs. They washed me, soothed me, dealt with my grumpy moments, and treated me with dignity when I felt I had none left.

And then there’s Sue, my wife, partner, and saint-in-residence. Watching her sit beside me, day after day, through tears and monitors and false alarms – it was equal parts heart-breaking and life-saving. If love could heal, I’d have walked out on day one.

To Everyone Who Reached Out – Thank You
To all the friends, family, and kind souls who messaged, prayed, called, or just thought of me – thank you. When your mind is 24/7 in a weird ICU purgatory, knowing you're not alone makes a bigger difference than you’ll ever know.

A New Perspective
I'm still in pain. Recovery isn’t fast, and I’m still trying to get my strength (and sense of humour) back. But I have a second shot – and I intend to take it.

Old age really isn’t for sissies. But if this whole journey’s taught me anything, it’s this: no matter how far gone you feel, hope, humour, and love are the strongest medicines of all.

Oh, and never underestimate the power of a clean nappy and a decent cup of tea.

🎶 My song of choice? Still The Who – My Generation.
“I hope I die before I get old…”
Well, I clearly missed that bit. But no regrets.




With love,
Scotia

Glad you back, Dave...

Shot Scotia ! A few adjustments and another 30 years to go.

Dave,  glad to hear you're back Home in time for the JULY.

Now get cracking with that COMPUTERFORM.......   & TIP us a few July winners......   BEFORE    FRIDAY EVENING.

There's STILL  time for u to enter our COMPETITION..

get well soon,  Elvis.

Welcome back mate. Just in time for the ABC competition.

Very happy to hear ... on to the next challenge ... trying to pick the July winner 

Welcome back Mr Dave, the wee dram and toast to you last Saturday night did the trick 😂🫡🥃

Great news Dave. Get better soon and back the July winner

Great news ,take it easy Dave ,recover well ,take care 🙏 

some good news

Take it one day at a time and get some rest too. You really have angels behind you!