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Panketal schoolchild fights against Long Covid – appeal for donations started!
Jonathan, a Panketal schoolchild, has been suffering from Long Covid since winter 2023. His parents are starting a fundraising appeal for treatment.
Panketal schoolchild fights against Long Covid – appeal for donations started!
In the tranquil town of Panketal, families and the local community are in shock. Jonathan, a school child, has been struggling with the consequences of Long Covid disease since winter 2023. His diagnosis is serious: Myalgic Encephalitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS). His mother, Miriam Bergader, has now started a call for donations on GoFundMe to cover the high costs of urgently needed treatment. The goal is 8,400 euros, almost half of which has already been raised. But how is Jonathan really?
His condition has worsened significantly in the last few months. Before the illness, the little boy's life was a completely normal, happy one: he played, went to school and was active. But since then there has hardly been anything left of this everyday life. Before Jonathan received his first apheresis treatment, he was barely able to get out of bed. After the treatment he was at least able to climb stairs again, go into the garden and play with Lego and paint. But it doesn't go unnoticed that the road back to normality is long and difficult. He is not allowed to take part in school lessons or pursue hobbies.
Long Covid and ME/CFS – A new challenge
The current situation is complicated by the limited scientific knowledge about Long Covid and ME/CFS. Although more and more people are developing Long Covid after a COVID-19 infection, there is currently no specific diagnostic test. It is estimated that around 10 percent of those infected with COVID-19 do not fully recover, and symptoms that last longer than three months indicate Long Covid, such as the ME Association explained. These experiences are part of a larger problem that doesn't just affect Jonathan.
ME/CFS is increasingly viewed as a serious, disabling condition that can occur as a result of viral illnesses. Researchers are currently trying to figure out the mechanisms behind these persistent symptoms. The German Society for General Medicine and Family Medicine informs that research into Long Covid and ME/CFS is being intensively pursued. Projects are currently being financed that test treatment approaches such as drug therapies or occupational therapies.
Looking into the future
The view of Long Covid has changed in recent years. However, there is still a lack of clear answers and targeted treatments. Once again, the gaps in care and diagnostic clarification become apparent. Scientists are looking for the causes and ways to improve those affected like Jonathan. Studies provide hope that significant insights will be gained in the near future.
Current estimates consider around 5 to 10 percent of all COVID-19 sufferers to be at risk of developing subsequent symptoms. The challenge is enormous, not only for families, but also for the entire health system. The problem is made even more difficult by new virus variants and the different levels of immunization among the population. The National Clinical Study Group on Post-COVID Syndrome will also play a key role in the future.
Jonathan and his family face an enormous challenge, but with the support of the community, he could take a crucial step towards recovery. Panketal Current reports on the fundraising campaign and illustrates how important solidarity and help are in such difficult times. Research into ME/CFS is also continuing so that there is at least a chance of a cure in the future.