Well, it’s been awhile since I provided a health update. Today I got a little nudge. I’ve been testing positive for the coronavirus HKU1 for over a month now. (It’s not COVID, but another coronavirus) It’s been light in terms of symptoms but in the last 2 weeks or so it’s kicked up a bit, specifically my coughing. The past few days it had gotten really bad. On Friday, a CT scan of my chest revealed signs of pneumonia. I also spiked a nasty fever. It’s been controlled by meds but still not great.

We moved my clinic appointment up to today (Tuesday, May 20th) and discovered my oxygen levels were low. I’d been resting all weekend long so I hadn’t done much to exert myself. But today, the walk from the garage to the clinic almost killed me. I had to break halfway through and take a breather.

My care team decided to admit me, so I’m back in my second home at U of C for another 3 day stint or so. The plan is to blast me with antibiotics and to monitor my oxygen levels closely. Other than the shortness of breath I feel good. Even the cough has subsided since I’ve been here, so maybe the antibiotics are working? (I started a round at home yesterday)

It’s a little emotional being back in the hospital. I’ve got a lot of bad memories from being here during the STEM cell transplant. It does feel different this time since I’m not physically ill. But the glow of the orange track lighting still sends me down a path of memories I’d rather avoid. There are still TV shows I can’t watch because I associate them with my recovery time after the transplant. But I’m here and making the best of it. Family is supportive as always. Steph came to drop some supplies off. The funny thing is, they admit you right away. No time to go home and pack.

Church is a rock. Weird going through it without Mom checking in. She always had to put eyes on me via FaceTime. Every day.

Not this time. 😢