A Gwynedd man who received life-saving treatment at an Intensive Care Unit has thanked staff for the ‘incredible’ care.

Kevin Spice became seriously unwell after being diagnosed with Myasthenia Gravis, a rare long-term condition that causes muscle weakness.

Kevin spent seven months in Ysbyty Gwynedd’s Intensive Care Unit (ICU) and during that time the staff and his family members kept a diary which has helped him with the effects of memory loss during his time in hospital.

ICU diaries are written in everyday language and contain daily entries on the patients’ condition. The diary is given to the patient after they are discharged from the ICU to take home with them and read at their own pace to understand what has happened to them in hospital if they want to.

Kevin, who is from Llanddeiniolen, said: “The condition I have is very rare and when I was at my worst it was very frightening.

“When I was admitted to the ICU it never occurred to me how serious it had become and that I might never go home again. I was struggling with my breathing which made it impossible to swallow as my muscles were incredibly weak.

“My recovery wasn’t easy at all, it was a rollercoaster, I would get so far and then all of a sudden I’d be back to square one.

“I am really grateful that the staff kept a diary for me during my stay. I have found it really valuable and it has enabled me to make sense of my intensive care experience."

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