How the Volta River Authority helped me survive COVID-19 

Today, March 11, 2023, marks the third anniversary since COVID-19 was declared a pandemic by the World Health Organisation. The pandemic brought uncertainty and chaos across the globe, leaving many searching for a safe haven.

For me, that sanctuary was the Volta River Authority (VRA) during the tumultuous year of 2020. When I contracted COVID-19, I found myself aboard the strongest vessel, a team that provided unwavering support during my illness.

It has been over two years since my recovery, and I am grateful for the VRA Management and the healthcare team at the Akosombo Hospital. Their care and guidance made my COVID-19 experience a positive one.

How it all started

In December 2020, I was feeling feverish for three consecutive days and visited the Volta River Authority (VRA) Hospital in Accra to seek medical attention. I was prescribed medication and recommended to take a COVID-19 test. After experiencing sporadic headaches, coughing, fatigue, and severe lower back pain, I tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) on December 16, 2020.

Solution: The VRA COVID-19 Taskforce

I informed the office administrator of my diagnosis and the VRA COVID-19 Taskforce was activated immediately. The Deputy Chief Executive (Engineering and Operations), Ing. Emmanuel Dankwa Osafo, now retired, also called me to assure me of the company’s 360-degree support during my isolation period. I was given access to a company-sponsored quarantine facility in Akosombo and was informed about the health care arrangements made to cater to my case and other staff.

 Safe quarantine and recovery

After four days of self-quarantine, I arrived at the facility in Akosombo. The health professionals welcomed me and assured me that I would be well taken care of. The facility is a standard guest house, fully air-conditioned with a television, refrigerator, and study desk. I was also assured of three square meals daily, including fruits, and was provided with free WIFI. It was a serene environment, befitting of its purpose.

Strict isolation measures were put in place, and no one apart from the COVID-19 health team was allowed in or out of the facility. However, we could walk around the parking lot or take fresh air in the gardens while wearing a mask. Medical doctors would occasionally check on us and counsel us on our health status.

Christmas in isolation

I spent my entire Christmas holiday at the facility with two co-tenants – a woman and a young lady. Although we were mostly indoors, we would come out in the evenings for fresh air. A scheduled test was conducted, and both my co-tenants tested negative and were discharged. Solitude became my companion until another infected staff member joined me, and we spent time talking and bonding.

 A new year, new hope

On December 31, 2020, I took another COVID-19 test and tested negative. My co-tenant also tested negative, and we were discharged from the facility on January 2, 2021, after a medical review. I am thankful for the love and support I received from the VRA management, the health team at Akosombo Hospital, and my family and friends.

 Gratitude

I commend the people-centered and values-driven leadership of our Chief Executive Ing. Antwi-Darkwa, and the Management of VRA for the initiative and care. A special thank you to Ing. Emmanuel Dankwa Osafo (Now retired Deputy Chief Executive, Engineering and Operations) for his routine check-up calls and comforting assurances.

I am also grateful to Ing. Kwaku Wiafe (Director, Engineering Services, VRA) and the entire team at the Pwalugu Multipurpose Dam Project Directorate for their unflinching support and my subsequent reintegration into the team.

As we remember the pandemic’s impact on its third anniversary, let us continue to stay vigilant and appreciate those who have been pillars of support throughout these trying times. Thank you, VRA, and its team of health professionals, for keeping me well and alive.