In this warm and uplifting conversation, I sat down with the irrepressible Debbie Geraghty to hear her recovery story from Long Covid, and reflect on the crucial role of community, creativity, and kindness along the way.

Debbie shares how her journey began in those uncertain early days of the pandemic, when even the classic Covid symptom of losing your sense of smell was seen as “an oddity" rather than the warning sign we all recognise now. She opens up about navigating months of debilitating post-viral fatigue, brain fog, and a baffling array of symptoms, and why the support of her GP made all the difference.

We talk honestly about the challenges: the rollercoaster of symptoms, being isolated at home, and the struggle to be believed. But Debbie’s story is also full of hope and humour. She tells us about the global online community that uplifted her (and even her 96-year-old neighbour, Thelma, who became an unlikely internet sensation!), the joy of creative writing and photography, and the life-changing shift from focusing on illness to rediscovering connection and joy.

Debbie also reflects on the importance of group support like Rest Repair Recover and why laughter, gentle movement, and being witnessed by others in a safe space can transform the recovery process.

If you’re feeling lost or hopeless on your own journey, this episode is a gentle reminder: you’re not alone, there is a way through, and sometimes the smallest moments of kindness can help us find our way home.

Let us know in the comments what this episode inspired you to do differently, we’d love to hear your thoughts.