AN 83-YEAR-OLD has taken a more holistic approach to cure him of Covid-19, after putting faith in his own body.
Roderick Mackie, who has been living at Suffolk Lodge care home in Wokingham since the start of the year, caught coronavirus in March.
Mr Mackie spent many hours reviewing scientific research, learning about biology and how the body reacts to illness.
He decided not to take any conventional medication whilst ill, and instead focus on breathing exercises.
He said: “I’ll leave it to my antibodies to make the decision.
“If my antibodies don’t work, then it’s my time to go.”
The care team at Suffolk Lodge supported him through his illness, ensuring he remained hydrated and comfortable.
Within a week, Mr Mackie began showing signs of positive recovery. His symptoms eased and he felt well enough to leave his bed.
He added: “My health now is fairly good, although I have to allow for my age.”
Wendy Luck, Suffolk Lodge home manager, said: “Our focus was on making Mr Mackie as comfortable as possible.
“He became quite unwell, but we would never go against a person’s wishes when it came to their health and medication.
“However, despite being seriously ill, Mr Mackie began to make a remarkable recovery, something that I attribute partly to his daily breathing exercises.
“We’re all thrilled to see him return to full health and are happy to see him involved in daily activities at the home once again.”
With his health back, Mr Mackie has been enjoying his independence.
He has learnt to play the piano by ear during lockdown and hopes to soon visit the library to look for piano guides and sheet music.
He also loves gardening and supports the activities coordinator in tending to the home’s potatoes and tomatoes.
Mr Mackie worked until he was 80, has always led a healthy lifestyle, kept a vegetarian diet and walks around the home’s grounds for his daily breathing exercises.