Guy Mitchell's Journey through the Intensive Care Unit

At 47 years old, Guy Mitchell, a Western Australian cook, found himself in a situation he never expected—fighting for his life in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) at Royal Perth Hospital (RPH).

On 21 April 2020, Guy was admitted to the ICU with pulmonary oedema, hypertensive cardiomyopathy, a hypertensive crisis, and acute kidney injury.

Guy had been experiencing symptoms for weeks—shortness of breath, constant coughing, fatigue, and sleepless nights. "I was struggling, I could barely walk to the bus stop or even to my letterbox," he recalls.

He attended RPH’s COVID clinic for testing, however after a COVID-19 test, a concerned nurse urged him to visit the emergency ward at RPH.

Upon arrival, he was immediately attended to by two doctors who tried various medications to manage his condition. "I was given about 15 different types of medication to reduce the fluid around my lungs and heart."

The severity of Guy's condition necessitated his transfer to the ICU. The experience was a blur filled with moments of fear and confusion. "I was attached to a heart monitor, struggling to breathe with a breathing tube in my mouth," he remembers.

The unfamiliar environment, with its bright lights and constant medical activity, added to his distress.

Despite the challenges, Guy praises the dedicated staff who supported him throughout his stay. "The doctors and nurses were amazing. They were always there, encouraging me, helping with meals, and doing everything they could to make me comfortable," he says. "ICU is a very different place, and it can be terrifying, but they tried their best to calm me down."

Guy was discharged from the ICU on 24 April 2020. Reflecting on his experience, Guy emphasises the critical role of medical research in his recovery. "Medical research is incredibly important. Whatever medical condition you have, research brings us closer to a cure."

Guy extends his heartfelt thanks to those who support medical research and the healthcare professionals who were with him throughout his journey.

Guy's story is a testament to the power of medical research and the dedication of healthcare professionals. At RPH Research Foundation, we are committed to supporting research to improve patient outcomes. 

Watch the full interview with Guy Mitchell below: