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People's experiences with pneumonia
Hear from those impacted by the infection.

 Watch Michael’s story 

Michael, a husband and father in his forties, was working and had an active lifestyle when he was affected by pneumonia.

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Catherine (66) 

‘When I developed a fever in October 2013, I had no idea the difficulty lying ahead of me. It took me a long time to get an accurate diagnosis of pneumonia. My doctor prescribed an antibiotic and I felt optimistic that my health would improve. But shortly afterwards, I began to feel much worse with a high fever. I knew it was time to see a doctor, but he told me my lungs sounded good and that I had the flu just like my family doctor had told me – so I insisted they do another x-ray. The results were that I had pneumonia! 

This was hard for me physically and emotionally because it took a long time for me to gradually feel more like myself. I experienced fever and fatigue. I felt so poorly that I’d just curl up with no desire to fight it. Recovering from pneumonia is a long process. For me, I learnt to really take my time with my recovery. It involved a lot of rest and a lot of time with my doctor.  

Looking back on my experience, I’ve learned just how important it is to be aware of my own body so I can take care of myself. If I can do something to protect me from getting it again, I definitely want to do it!’ 
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Angela (51)

‘I knew a little of what to expect because I had been hospitalised with pneumonia before, when I was a child. As an adult, I learned to be more proactive about my health, and for many years I lived a healthy lifestyle. But seven years ago, I became feverish, dizzy and weak. I was rushed to hospital and a chest x-ray confirmed pneumonia. Both times I have had pneumonia were stressful and sad experiences. Thankfully, after 10 days of treatment, I became healthy enough to leave the hospital.

My life, however, is no longer the same. I try to avoid crowded places, so that I am not exposed to an infection. I avoid cold and dusty places, as well as getting plenty of rest. But there is no absolute safety. I teach dozens of students every day and the risk and danger of catching yet another lung infection for me is constant.
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My experience with pneumonia is a reminder to me that we don’t live forever. I still try to live with a smile on my face, but I also now encourage everyone to talk to their doctors about ways to help prevent pneumococcal pneumonia and make the best of their lives. Carpe diem!’
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Find out how to help protect yourself or others against pneumococcal pneumonia.

PP-UNP-GBR-7117 January 2024