Long COVID Warrior • Writer
Welcome to this special podcast episode, where we delve into the experiences of a young long COVID and ME/CFS warrior, Henry Barker. Anne Wilson, CEO of Emerge Australia, is joined by Henry and his mother Jen, who also lives with long COVID, to share their journey and insights. Henry’s story is featured in the book (along with Emma Tippett and Michelle Scouller) ‘The Rehabilitation and Management of Long COVID’, highlighting the unique challenges faced by children and young people.
“I take every opportunity to get out and have fun with friends, but compared with other teenagers, it can’t be so possible living with the symptoms of long COVID. I got COVID at 13 and at 17 I’m living with long COVID and ME/CFS. I’ve spent a long time not going to school and am now studying my HSC online and this is working better for me.” – Henry Barker
Henry, an aspiring writer, has a passion for literature and has bravely navigated the complexities of long COVID. His experience sheds light on the importance of tailored approaches for diagnosing and managing this condition in young people. We explore the impact of dysautonomia, including POTS, and the interventions that have brought relief.
“We need to take a day at a time and it can be heartbreaking, but I know Henry will be okay because of his mindset. If he held on to all the negative experiences he has had – whether at school, or in the healthcare system or in community – he’d be so much worse.” – Jennifer Barker
Join us as we discuss the profound impact of stigma and the need for education within the healthcare system. Henry’s story is a powerful reminder of the resilience and strength of the human spirit.
“Trying to find help has been challenging. I recall one time trying to get a necessary certificate for school, we went to specialists who were recommended to us and I was put on a treadmill with a mask on my face – it was just terrible and so very exhausting – I was in bed for weeks after this, with increased symptoms and isolation. I would just dread going to a doctor – even just sitting in the waiting room with noise and bright lights – and this was before starting a consultation.” – Henry Barker
A glimpse of hope is all it takes! Join us for an eye-opening podcast with this insightful and eloquent young person that could change the way you view and approach long COVID and ME/CFS.
We are grateful for Emerge Australia’s Ambassador Bloom sharing her rendition of John Lennon’s Imagine to open and close our podcasts.
