Olya

From Professional Ukrainian tennis player to PoTS!

I am Olya. I am 43 and a Ukrainian mother of three small children. 

In 2020, after a coronavirus infection, I was unable to climb even a couple of steps, let alone a big staircase. As a former professional tennis player and participating in yoga, it was difficult to even stand upright as my pulse raced from 130 to 170 beats. I felt like I was dying. I was scared to leave my home and eventually developed depression. 

Unfortunately, the Ukrainian doctors were unable to diagnose me, instead giving me a diagnosis of vegetative-vascular distancing with PA and sending me to a psychotherapist. I spent three years of suffering, missing my active and mobile life. I underwent countless blood tests, MRIs, x-rays, and consulted with the highest-ranking doctors. I was prescribed medications and visited numerous medical institutions.

It was a long and painful journey, as I was unable to play my beloved game of tennis. On top of that, I had to deal with the war, moving to hospitable England and looking after my three small children. It was in England that my GP referred me for a medical examination with special equipment which eventually led to my diagnosis.

Thanks to the English doctors, their advanced medicine, and their systematic approach I have a diagnosis and a sense of hope. I am especially grateful to my friends who invited me here to the UK.