The pandemic in 2020 was a darkness for many, even for swimmer Victor Johansson.
The adversities took turns.
The bottom was reached in December when he was forced to seek care due to a throat infection.
It became so urgent that he was admitted to the intensive care unit and ended up on a respirator.
- I was on a respirator, I am 22 years old, I should not be on a respirator.
I was terminally ill.
If we had not had the medical care we have, I would not have been alive, says Johansson.
Gained weight - regained energy
He knows that last year has left its mark and that he needs a little more time to come back in full swing.
Johansson, who finished fifth in the 400 meter freestyle in the European Championships 2018, plans to swim really fast in June to be able to qualify for the Olympics.
- After the testosterone worry I had, during the three or four months I did not train, I consciously gained ten kilos.
Because the body was completely emptied.
We focused on putting on more muscle mass and making sure the body has the energy it needs.
So I am a stronger Victor now than last year and two years ago, says Johansson.
But now he's fine.
- Today I feel just fine.
The training is in full swing and finally it feels like I am on my way to something good.
I have found my way back to my form and to who I am as a person.
I'm happy and I'm fine, he says.
Admitted to IVA
April 8-11, there will be competitions in the Stockholm Swim Open.
Victor Johansson is now chasing times to qualify for the European Championships and the Olympics, but above all he is very happy to be back.
- I do not take swimming for granted anymore.
I am happy that I get to do what I love and grateful to be able to compete, says the 22-year-old.