In 2021, Sam Lewis, a 38-year-old U.K. mom of three, began experiencing chest pains as she got her children ready for school. She initially saw a doctor who diagnosed it as a benign inflammation in the cartilage of her chest. However, in March 2022, the pain returned. She shared with South West News Service via The Daily Mail that her symptoms were initially dismissed as Long Covid. But later that month, while in incredible pain, she returned to the doctor.

Diagnosis and the Devastating Turn of Events

The diagnosis was a gallstone in her bile duct. After being hospitalized to treat it, doctors discovered that she had developed a debilitating case of pancreatitis that "went from acute to necrotising overnight," as Sam Lewis, a children's performer, described. Necrotising pancreatitis is a serious condition where part of the pancreas dies. It occurs in 20% of pancreatitis cases, which is an inflammation of the gland involved in the digestive process.The illness caused Sam to swell significantly, to the point where she said, "I looked like I was eight months pregnant. I couldn't move my ankles." It progressed rapidly, landing her in the intensive care unit. "At one point I was minutes away from death," she shared. During her hospital stay, she developed the potentially fatal infection sepsis. It was then that she was placed in a medically induced coma, and doctors removed half of her pancreas.She spent a total of six months in the hospital. After the life-saving surgery, she had to relearn to walk. These days, she is left with chronic pancreatitis, which is managed with a strict diet.

Impact on Daily Life

Sam used to love going out. But now, she refrains from going anywhere in case she has a flare-up. She can't even have crisps, chocolate, fish and chips. She can't have fast food or pop to the bakery. "It's something I have to live with," she said. "Pancreatitis is evil and it can take you."She faces limitations on her diet and activities due to the chronic condition. But she is determined to manage it and continue with her life. She hopes that by sharing her story, others can be more aware of the potential complications of Long Covid and pancreatitis.