For context, I was involved in a small research study in March - April 2024 with a master's student for 1 month via Bath University and was loaned a PrO2 device. I developed Long COVID in July 2022 and have since struggled to recover.

Before using the device, I struggled significantly with breathlessness (I was constantly out of breath in conversations, wheezy, and generally unwell); I had an ongoing dry cough and extreme fatigue - all of which were exacerbated by movement. I struggled to walk upstairs and long distances. I gained a significant amount of weight. My breathing was disrupting several areas of my life and health - including my heart.

I began to use the device with a nose clip three times a week for 30-minute sessions. I had 48 hours of recovery between each session. It has been magical. The first session was initially more intense than expected but comfortably pushed me. I've been able to adjust well. By the 2nd - 3rd week of consistently using the device, I could already see significant benefits. The fact that the device matches my fatigue levels on each session is why I think I've stayed consistent. I've never really managed to stick to an exercise program so consistently (even before I was poorly), so I'm amazed that the combination of the app and ease of the device has helped me to be able to stick to the plan. The app gives the added benefit of seeing my recovery develop. I can see how much my scores have improved in one month alone.

On top of viewing the data, the physical benefits I have seen have been the most critical factor in improving my overall quality of life. My cough has pretty much resolved (unless I'm having a flare-up), my daily breathing is better, I can hold conversations, and I have even had the added benefit of developing my exercise opportunities further and building on the routine/foundations the app has given me. Now, I do Pilates three times a week, and I joined a gym and have started swimming a few times a week, too. This is massive progress in my overall activity levels. I can achieve these because I can breathe now; this has also had subsequent benefits in regulating my heart rate. My breathing and heart rate remain much more regular when exposed to exercise. I feel I am returning to an autonomic regulation pattern that Long COVID had disrupted for me.

I'm very grateful to the company and the device for allowing me to be as active as a 25-year-old should be. I'm going to continue using the device regularly because I want to see how much further I can rehabilitate. Furthermore, I find using the device quite a mindful activity and very good for my mental health. I see it as quite a relaxing self-care activity that I complete in the evenings to help me take time for myself and relax before bed. I can see the benefits extending beyond my illness and its value for healthy people, and I would recommend it to anyone. Thank you, PrO2!