First of all I’d like to say that I hope you’re having a lovely day in Robin Hood’s Bay. If it’s your first time here you’re in for such a treat. If you’re returning here, or better yet live here then you know why I say that.
I’ve been to Robin Hood’s Bay a great many times over my life. I came here with my folks as a kid, with aunties and uncles, grandparents and with my closest friends since. I would be here if I could. The reason I’m unable to be here, the reason why I’m confined to my bed as I speak is because of long Covid.
It might surprise you to know that I’m only 32, and was otherwise fit and healthy before the pandemic. The day of the first lockdown I started to develop mild symptoms. A little tickle in the back of my throat and a mild fever progressed to intense breathlessness and ultimately a trip to the hospital in the back of an ambulance.
Since that day my health has continued to decline to the point where I can no longer get myself downstairs, let alone out of the house. I’m very lucky to have the support of my family because I can no longer take care of myself independently.
I need a lot of help. The purpose of me telling you this isn’t to gather any sympathy or to warn you of the dangers of Covid, we’ve all read those stories or experienced them first hand, be that personally, or with our loved ones. Instead I hope that you will drink in your surroundings and make the most of Robin Hood’s Bay. Whether it’s scorching hot or squally and bleak, I really do feel it’s one of the best places in the world to be.
It’s full of stunning vistas, fantastic smells and friendly earthy folk who know how to weather an off season and repair roof tiles that are too often led astray by storms.
If you feel so inclined, please take me with you today. Go on a stomp, have a splash in the sea. Reward yourself with some fish and chips and an ice cream or a well earned pint. Above all, send Robin Hood’s Bay my love.
