"It was very difficult" – Drakenstein physiotherapist shares his COVID-19 journe

COVID-19 was a reality for Mr Malcolm Williams months before he tested positive. As a physiotherapist supporting Western Cape Government Health’s clients in Drakenstein, he immediately had to adapt his working schedule to protect the most vulnerable patients who he usually assisted. His colleagues were surprised when he got COVID-19, because he was one who made doubly sure he followed all the measures to prevent COVID-19 infection.

“It was very difficult,” he says in reflecting on the time when he awaited his test results and then learned he had COVID-19. He experienced tremendous weakness in his body, had a dry cough and noticed a change in his breathing. “I immediately thought of my wife and children. Did I infect them? Did I infect the colleague with whom I share the office?” His youngest was just two months old at that stage.

The fact that he has diabetes, caused more alarm, as underlying conditions like this could cause you to get sicker of COVID-19 than others.

“You read the media, the articles, the statistics…I thought ‘How am I going to fight this’?”

To protect his family, he didn’t think twice about going to an isolation facility. He was referred to an isolation facility in Drakenstein and was "quite pleased" with his stay there. He had a room with a view and was glad about the daily check-ups from health staff. Malcom says he would like to encourage others to also use isolation facilities to reduce the risk of their families getting COVID-19.

“Doing community work you don’t see the seriousness of COVID-19. You read about it and psychologically it has a big impact. It was quite frightening, but for me it was easier to keep a positive mind-set, than it may be for others as I only had mild symptoms.” He decided to maintain a positive mindset by not focusing on the latest figures, but rather concentrate on getting better. 

His wife, Nadia, was his biggest source of encouragement in this time. She taught him to take the negative out of COVID-19 and to focus on the good they have. She tested positive for COVID-19 while he was still in isolation. When his time in isolation was complete, he rushed home to help her with the children. It took about two weeks for him to fully regain his strength.

He was glad to return to work and being able to support his patients. “This is what I’m here for. If I do my work, other people can get back to theirs.”

He is still adamant that everyone should do what they can to prevent getting COVID-19. He emphasises that you should stay home as far as possible, only go out for essential items, and wash your hands regularly. “I’m a living example that you can get COVID-19, recover and get back to work while maintaining a positive outlook.”

If you are awaiting COVID-19 test results, if you were in close contact with someone who has COVID-19 or if you tested positive, you can make use of the COVID-19 quarantine or isolation facilities. People in the Drakenstein area can call 021 877 6513, 079 418 9067 or send an email to Patricia.vanWyk@westerncape.gov.za.

ENDS