Tag: sick

FRIDAY 13 TO PRESENT…UGH!

Posted on by jonithetentmaker

I thought Friday the 13th on WhatNot would soar because it was my dad’s birthday. Every Friday, the 13th, is my dad’s birthday because that was the day he was born, and he and I would have so much fun with the teasing back and forth. What you imagine happening in your mind and reality can be different scenarios. It was for me.
The show was a revolving door of visitors. There were no sales, interactions, or anything else. I ended the show and sulked my way downstairs to bed. Tomorrow will be better because I am going to estate sales and finding some sale-worthy treasures with my peanut budget. I love the scavenging. There will be excitement and boosted endorphins on the way.
When Sunday rolls around, I am hoarse and not feeling well. By nightfall, it was an ambulance ride to the hospital. You never know when the disease is going to kick into overdrive and send you over the cliff. To enhance the trauma of the night, the hospital visit, the doctor, and one nurse were horrific. They did more harm, and I felt like I was in some crazy Alfred Hitchcock movie. I will write about this next week because we will file a complaint.
Next week, I see several of my own doctors, and they start getting me back on track, except the darn laryngitis wants to linger. Now it is Fourth of July week, and I want to do a reset with my Whatnot shop. I will see if I can actually do it. When you have a disease that can be all-consuming, you learn to go with it, fight like hell along the way, and praise God for the successful moments.
I pray your week is full of successful moments, family time, and the love of Jesus Christ.

God Bless You!

My Life: Title: Living Through Long COVID: The Daily Battle Against Lingering Effects

Posted on by jonithetentmaker

The COVID-19 pandemic has been an unprecedented global challenge, affecting millions of lives worldwide. While many have thankfully recovered from the virus with mild symptoms, others have experienced a different, more perplexing reality – the lingering effects of long COVID. In this blog post, we delve into the world of those living with long COVID, exploring the everyday challenges they face and shedding light on the importance of understanding and supporting this unique group of individuals. And I am one of those unique individuals!

What is Long COVID?

Long COVID, also known as post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection (PASC), refers to the condition where individuals experience persistent symptoms and health issues long after their initial COVID-19 infection. These symptoms can last for weeks, months, or even longer, making daily life a continuous struggle for those affected.

The Spectrum of Long COVID Effects

The effects of long COVID vary greatly from person to person, and their severity can fluctuate over time. Some of the most common symptoms include:

  1. Extreme Fatigue: One of the most prevalent and debilitating symptoms of long COVID is extreme fatigue. Individuals may find themselves unable to perform simple daily tasks without feeling exhausted.
  2. Respiratory Issues: Long COVID can lead to lingering respiratory problems, such as shortness of breath and difficulty breathing, even in individuals who had mild initial COVID-19 infections.
  3. Cognitive Impairment: Many long COVID sufferers report experiencing “brain fog,” memory lapses, difficulty concentrating, and overall cognitive impairment that impacts their work and personal life.
  4. Chronic Pain: Persistent body aches, joint pain, and headaches are common, leaving those afflicted with long COVID in a constant state of discomfort.
  5. Emotional and Psychological Impact: The prolonged nature of long COVID can take a toll on mental health, leading to anxiety, depression, and feelings of isolation.
  6. Loss of Smell and Taste: Some individuals may continue to experience the loss of smell and taste, affecting their appetite and quality of life.

Navigating Daily Life with Long COVID

Living with long COVID means adapting to a new normal that can be filled with uncertainty and challenges. Many individuals must alter their daily routines and lifestyles to accommodate their symptoms. Here are some of the everyday effects long COVID patients grapple with:

  1. Occupational Challenges: For those who were previously employed, long COVID can disrupt their ability to return to work or maintain productivity. Cognitive difficulties and fatigue can hinder job performance, leading to career setbacks and financial strain.
  2. Limited Social Interactions: The ongoing symptoms of long COVID may necessitate isolation and social distancing measures, further exacerbating feelings of loneliness and alienation.
  3. Family and Relationships: Long COVID can put a strain on personal relationships, as partners and family members try to comprehend the unpredictable nature of the condition.
  4. Medical Appointments: Regular visits to healthcare providers become a necessity for long COVID patients, adding to their physical and financial burden.
  5. Mental Health Support: Seeking emotional support and coping with the emotional toll of long COVID become vital aspects of daily life, often requiring professional counseling or therapy.

Support and Understanding

As the medical community continues to study long COVID, it is crucial to foster empathy and understanding for those enduring its effects. Supportive measures can be taken at various levels:

  1. Medical Community: Improved research, specialized clinics, and multidisciplinary approaches are required to better diagnose and treat long COVID.
  2. Workplace Flexibility: Employers should implement flexible work arrangements to accommodate employees recovering from long COVID, enabling them to gradually return to work.
  3. Social Support Networks: Establishing support groups and community forums for long COVID patients can foster a sense of belonging and alleviate the feeling of isolation.
  4. Mental Health Resources: Increased access to mental health services can help individuals cope with the emotional challenges of long COVID.

Living through long COVID has been a daunting journey that requires patience, resilience, and unwavering support. By understanding the everyday effects and challenges faced by long COVID sufferers, we can work together to create a more compassionate and inclusive society. As we continue to fight the pandemic, let us not forget those who are still grappling with its aftermath and extend a helping hand to make their lives more manageable and meaningful.

God Bless You!

Covid-19, My Proactive Approach

Posted on by jonithetentmaker

Watching the coronavirus coverage and the postings of people struggling to breathe reminds me of the times I have been in respiratory distress. The feelings of strangulation, suffocation, and drowning in the gurgling of my own fluids, which will consume me if I don’t react quickly, are all too real for me.  I live with a rare disease called GPA and it affects my whole respiratory system including my nose structure which is now a rib bone.  So any infection or disease that accelerates the power of my GPA leaves me running in the opposite direction and searching for ways to protect myself.

I have always taken the stand that “defeat is not an option,” with this disease even when I can barely draw breath into my body or climb an ordinary set of stairs.  Push and push or find another way is my method of daily functioning and my body just has to follow along. But with Covid-19 there and the quickness, it can consume the respiratory systems sends me back to my early days of researching other methods in being proactive with my health.

From the very beginning of my disease, when the doctors did not know what was going on and could only treat the symptoms I have always searched and researched ways to live a better life.  Over these decades, GPA has facilitated my body in acquiring Ulcerative Colitis, Asthma, Allergies, Upper Respiratory Diseases, Uveitis, Diabetes 2, Rheumatoid Arthritis, and High Blood Pressure. So I am a triple bull’s eye for the coronavirus! Along with the medicines I take, I have discovered supplements which help to boost my immune system and give me a better quality of life. And then my go-to exercise is yoga or ballet, very gentle, flowing, stretching movements improving my lung function and my mobility.

DISCLAIMER ALERT:  I want to state that I am not a doctor and I am not giving advice to anyone concerning their medical care.

Right now, I must ask my self, “What else can I do during this time to help my body survive the Covid-19?”

So, once again I must go back to some of my better research days and add two helpful items to my daily regime. One is called The Breather, which is a way to exercise the throat and lungs and the other is a supplement for my lungs.  I want to say that I do not make a dime on either of these products. And before you take any supplement, be sure to ask your doctor about the supplement. At this point I am doing all I can to stay safe by following the quarantine, taking my meds and supplements and adding some additional exercises for my lungs.

Where to next?

As always my handy dandy study bible is at my side! It was there at the beginning of my walk with God and will be with me until the end of my life.  I am not sure “next” is the correct word because God is with me daily.  Our relationship is one that I survive on, without Him I would have nothing nor be nothing.  He is the love of my life, my all in all!  He is my Father, my Saviour, my God!

And, asking God how I can help is a no brainer for me. I can write and encourage others.  I can pray! I pray my blog will be a way I can bring some joy, and peace to those who are anxious and quarantined.  I also pray that God will bring those to me who are searching for Him and that they will encounter God in their lives.  Even though GPA has sidelined me in my camper, it has not stopped me from speaking out and offering hope!

Today, I begin with Psalm 46:1  “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.”

When I read this I think of a large rock cave that I can go into where nothing in this world can penetrate my covering.  As for strength, what strength is the strongest in the universe but God’s strength?  His strength exceeds more than our minds can comprehend!  And He is present, which means He is right here and not in some far off imaginary place. Basically, we don’t have to be strong during this time nor do we have to look for a place to hide.  We can take all of our weaknesses and fears and give them to God.  Hand it over and let Him handle what should be done!  To me that is a relief, a deep sigh, a restful moment knowing God is my refuge and my strength! What about you? Can you give it all to God?

After you think you have done everything you can do to be proactive during this virus, then go to God and give it all to Him! For you will find your peace and knowing in Him.

Heavenly Father;

I come before you today with praise and thanksgiving for you being my rock and my strength!  And for you always being with me!  Thank you!

Please heal those who are suffering from the coronavirus, and help our health care workers with your strength and your presence in their great time of need.  Please open the eyes of our government officials to do what is right and stop those officials who would seek to profit by abusing the system.

Please send peace to the anxious, and joy to those who are depressed and worried.  Send them someone to let them they are loved and they have a God who wants to care for them always.

Give us all strength in the coming days and fill our hearts with your everlasting love.

In Jesus Name,

AMEN!