A Note of Thanks from The Advoc8te: Health, Community, and Getting Back on My Feet
Thank you. Truly.
Thank you to everyone who reached out with well wishes, checked in, sent resources, and patiently waited while I was completely knocked over by Covid. These past 10 days were the longest stretch I’ve gone without updating Congress Heights on the Rise, and it felt strange… almost disorienting. CHotR has been part of my daily rhythm for so long that stepping away, even for something as unavoidable as illness, came with a surprising amount of guilt.
As a small business owner, you are never really off the clock. And as a community advocate, you feel a responsibility to stay connected, informed, and present. Even a necessary pause can feel like you’re being irresponsible, even when your body is demanding rest.
I’ve Never Taken This Much Time Off, Even After Major Surgeries
I’ve had a lot of surgeries over the years, at least 11 by last count. Hip replacement, two back surgeries, and more. And even then, I was still posting and working because those surgeries were scheduled. I had time to prepare and plan ahead for CHotR and for my clients.
Covid doesn’t give you that ability. It comes without warning, and there’s no structure, no preparation window, no easing in. One day you’re fine; the next day your body is in full shutdown.
What Covid Was Like for Me
I know many people have experienced Covid already, but since this was my first time, here’s what stood out:
The headache was unreal. Not just a headache, but something that felt like it radiated through my entire upper body.
The nausea, fever, and coughing were nonstop.
The fatigue was the worst part. Ten days in and I still feel like my energy is running at 40 percent.
Paxlovid helped, but it made everything taste metallic and bitter. The only upside is that I did lose five pounds.
Mentally, I dealt with feeling overwhelmed, irritable, guilty about not working, and major FOMO.
Because of potential drug interactions, I had to stop taking some medications until the Paxlovid course ended. I’ve since started iron, Vitamin C, and Vitamin D to help rebuild my energy. It helps a bit, but I still take breaks constantly, more than I ever have before.
Balancing Work, Illness, and Reality
Even while I was sick, I did continue to work for my clients, just at a slower pace and definitely not at my full capacity. I am so thankful for their understanding as I tried to balance their needs with my own. It wasn’t easy to accept that I simply couldn’t do all the things I normally do, but their patience and support made it possible for me to at least stay connected without pushing myself into a worse state.
The Emotional Toll
One thing that weighed heavily on me was missing my uncle’s funeral. It was out of town, and even though I knew I couldn’t travel while sick, the guilt still sat with me. Thankfully, the service was broadcast online, so I was able to participate virtually and be present in the only way I safely could. Still, it added another emotional layer to an already difficult stretch of days.
And then there was Teddy. Being sick without him was harder than I expected. He was always my constant companion, and I know if he were still alive, he would have been right there beside me in the bed, giving comfort between demanding snacks. In a strange way, I found myself thinking that Covid waited until he was gone, because it would have been impossible to walk him while I was this sick. I missed him deeply.
Thinking Ahead: My Covid Prevention Stance
This experience has me thinking carefully about my Covid prevention approach moving forward. I believe masking is going to have to re-enter my routine, at least through the winter. I’m still figuring out what that will look like, but I know I need a sustainable way to protect my health while remaining engaged in the community.
Health Matters, Even When We Pretend It Doesn’t
This experience reminded me that health cannot be an afterthought. We talk about rest, wellness, and boundaries, but living them is a different story. Covid forced me to slow down, listen to my body, and reevaluate how I work and how I show up.
Grateful for My Village
I cannot express how grateful I am for my neighbors and friends. They checked in constantly, dropped off medicines and groceries, delivered my mail, and made sure I didn’t feel like I had fallen into a dark hole. Community care is real, and I felt it.
A special note goes to my friend and neighbor Isabelle, who kept me together both physically and emotionally. She made sure I had what I needed and, just as importantly, she delivered firm lectures in the most amazing French accent, insisting that I needed to sit my ass down and rest. And honestly… she was right. I owe her big for that.
Wherever you live, nurturing a sense of community matters. It makes hard moments easier and reminds you that you’re not alone.
I’m easing back into updating CHotR, slowly, responsibly, and with a renewed appreciation for health, rest, and the people who hold us up when we need it.
Thank you for your patience.
Thank you for your kindness.
And thank you for being part of this community.
The Advoc8te