Story
They cared for us. Now it’s our turn to care for them.
During the COVID pandemic, healthcare workers stood on the front line when the world was frightened and uncertain. They cared for patients, held the hands of people who were alone, worked exhausting shifts, and kept going when so many others could stay safely at home.
For some, the pandemic never truly ended.
Healthcare workers living with Long Covid can be left with debilitating, unpredictable symptoms that affect every part of life — their health, their ability to work, their finances, and their hopes for the future. People who have dedicated their lives to caring for others can suddenly find themselves struggling to care for themselves.
As the NHS faces continued pressures, Long Covid remains a significant public health issue. Healthcare workers have experienced high levels of exposure to COVID-19, and SARS-CoV-2 continues to circulate, meaning the risk of infection and Long Covid remains. The NHS Race and Health Observatory August 2026 REACH-OUT report found that up to 27% of UK healthcare workers have reported symptoms lasting 12 weeks or more.
They should not have to face this alone.
I am raising funds for Supporting Healthcare Heroes UK (SHH-UK). Donations will support SHH-UK’s wider charitable work, including free peer support groups, evidence-based information and resources, bringing healthcare workers’ experiences into research and policy, and campaigning for better recognition, support and safer healthcare environments.
Every donation, whatever the amount, can help. And if you’re unable to give, simply sharing this fundraiser could help us reach someone who can.
These healthcare workers gave so much to all of us. They are a vital part of our NHS and wider healthcare system.
Now we can give something back.
Please donate if you can, and help us stand alongside the healthcare workers living with the lasting impact of Long Covid.
Supporting Healthcare Heroes UK
Supporting Healthcare Heroes UK (SHH-UK) is a registered charity in England and Wales (no. 1205685), dedicated to supporting healthcare workers living with Long Covid across the UK. SHH-UK provides free peer support, evidence-based information and resources, and campaigns for better recognition, support and safer healthcare environments.
Don’t forget…
Anyone can get Long Covid.
Long Covid can affect people of any age, gender or previous health status following COVID-19 infection. Vaccination can reduce, but does not eliminate, the risk of developing Long Covid.
Who is Welshpool?
Born out of a blockbuster film released in the summer of 2024 (Deadpool & Wolverine), he went viral (pun intended) and decided to use his newfound notoriety to raise awareness of Long Covid. He does so by attending various events wearing a loudspeaker, blasting out tunes, being confused with Spiderman and providing encouragement to his fellow runners.
For more information, and to see him in action, watch this clip from last year’s Cardiff Half Marathon: