Wednesday, July 3, 2024
It may take a while before I get over the exhaustion, but I am thankfully leaps and bounds ahead of where I was just a few days ago. Let me tell you - COVID-19 isn’t for the faint of heart.
Many of you have also had your encounter with this pernicious ailment, which seems to affect everyone differently. It came on like a hurricane late on a Friday evening, had me on my back most of the next day, seemed to let up a little on day three only to come roaring back with a vengeance on day four.
The sore throat lingered nonstop for days – thank goodness for grapes, and orange sherbet/vanilla ice cream blend and Powerade, which helped me make it through the ordeal.
Thanks also to co-worker David Scott for dropping off the COVID test and a thermometer, and to him, Janice and other staff at The Messenger for continuing to do a great job putting out the paper.
My best guess is that I caught the virus during the volleyball tournament that brought teams from as far away as Lubbock. While the participants were likely tested, there were still others (family members and fans) who might have unwittingly carried COVID.
Another possibility is I got the virus somewhere else. I did attend a Lions Club meeting on Aug. 17 and later learned at least one other club member had been diagnosed with COVID.
While the first few days were a rollercoaster, it’s the fatigue that keeps on lingering. I know many have had a much tougher time with COVID than I did. A former co-worker was hospitalized for weeks and was fortunate to have survived. I also know people who lost family to this disease. As with any disease, those of us who have recovered can definitely count our blessings and be thankful.
Oh, I definitely don’t want to forget somebody who rode out the COVID storm with me – my dog, Tallulah.
Lu: It was definitely a rough few days and nights. Not only was I worried about you, but the table scraps were pretty meager for several days and I had to rely on food of the last resort (common dog food!). Also, our walks came to a screeching halt. Fortunately, you were still at least able to get up and let me visit the backyard whenever I needed.
Jeff: Right, Lu. You were a real trooper. I know it couldn’t have been easy for you, either. COVID is a big disruption, and I’m thankful for you coming up and giving me emotional support while I was sick.
Lu: I was glad to – and so glad that it’s over now. So how bad was it?
Jeff: Well, it reminded me an awful lot of the flu at times, and seemed like a bad cold at other times. Taking painkillers and decongestants helped quite a bit, and trying to make sure I moved around from time to time, even if I didn’t particularly feel like it.
Lu: But you feel like it now?
Jeff: Well, I suppose. I’m still tired but can get around well enough.
Lu: That’s what I like to hear. I’ll go get the leash!
Jeff: Always keeping your eyes on the prize. I wish you could enjoy a good ride like many other dogs do.
Lu: But I am not those other dogs. I am me, for better or worse.
Jeff: Fair enough. But let’s take it easy.
Lu: Oh, all right. I suppose you only have to walk me once today. Glad you are better!
Jeff: Me, too. Thanks, Lu!
