A Grassy Park father of two is begging people to wear masks, stop visiting family and friends, and keep washing their hands after the “scariest experience of my life”.
Gino Tobin, 44, was delighted to be discharged from Groote Schuur Hospital on 5 January following complications with Covid-19.
He tested positive for the Coronavirus on 15 December, and because he only had mild symptoms he self-isolated for 10 days at home.
Gino says he thought he had recovered but to his shock, on day 11, Covid showed its teeth.
“I survived what I thought was my 10-day period, but then I started experiencing fatigue and shortness of breath from day 11.”
He says the swift response of staff at the hospital saved his life.
“We acted swiftly to see a doctor who had me go for chest X-rays. The doctor later confirmed my worst fear, that I had developed Covid-19 pneumonia,” recalls Gino.
He was admitted to the emergency unit on 30 December: “After being admitted, I was put on oxygen and moved to a ward where I had a seven-day treatment plan.
“I am testimony that although I was wheeled into the hospital, I walked out on my own.”
The grateful dad adds: “I would like to thank every cleaner, cook, staff nurse, student doctor and professor for what I deem a very good stay at Groote Schuur Hospital.”
Dr. Bhavna Patel, CEO at Groote Schuur, said: “Every life we save offers us the encouragement and hope to keep doing the best we can for our patients.”
Gino says the virus is not a hoax and one only has to see how hospitals look to believe it: “Please ensure that you wear your mask and practice social distancing, even at home with your own family, nobody is guaranteed safety.
“I was lucky to have survived Covid-19."