Carrie 1
2 years since diagnosis
Age at interview: 40
Carrie has been living with long-COVID since December 2020 and has been dealing symptoms such as brain fog, fatigue, and elevated heart rate when sitting or standing. Living with long-COVID has been challenging because she needs to pace herself with tasks and rest often to ensure that she does not make the symptoms worse. Living with the illness has had an impact on many aspects of her life as well. For example, it is challening to be a single parent, to socialize with family and friends, and keep with a career. However, Carrie has learned how to adjust to her situation and has developed some deep friendships with others who live with chronic illness. These friendships have been invaluable support throughout her experience. She also has turned her focus to advocacy work while she’s had to pause her career. She believes its ok to have hope that one day you will recover, but that you must also be realistic about your situation and learn how to adapt to your new life, learn how to love yourself, and think about how you can still contribute in this world in different ways than you might have before.
More content
- Tests and Investigations – Carrie 1Carrie 1 was able to access specialized tests as a participant in several research studies.
- Advice to Others Living With Long COVID – Carrie 1Carrie 1 asks for other people to respect her needs.
- Advice to Others Living With Long COVID – Carrie 1Carrie 1 now lives in a "soulless" apartment building but realizes that it is better suited to her current needs.
- Seeking Information About Long COVID – Carrie 1Carrie 1 was shocked by some of the information being shared in an online support group.
- Additional Supports Needed for People Living with Long COVID – Carrie 1Carrie 1 needs help at home but doesn't qualify for home care.
- Advice to Healthcare Providers – Carrie 1Carrie 1 explains that being direct with patients at least allows them to get organized and access the supports they need.
- Lessons Learned and Positive Life Changes – Carrie 1Carrie 1 found a new way to practice photography.
- Loss of Income and Need for Financial Support – Carrie 1Carrie 1 says applying for financial support is like climbing Mount Everest.
- Loss of Income and Need for Financial Support – Carrie 1Carrie 1 wishes she could get support for daily tasks she now finds challenging.
- Impacts on Friendships – Carrie 1Carrie 1 explains how physical limitations and concerns about reinfection have impacted her social life.