AdriReese

If you were to make an assumption about me by looking at my profile, you’d think I’m a happy, beauty loving, content creator. Which is true! But there’s one thing you wouldn’t know about me. I’ve been sick for four years…

4 years ago today I caught Covid for the fourth time. At the time I was a university freshman and a student athlete. I was studying political science with dreams of going to law school and working for the Innocence Project. I ended up being Covid positive for almost 30 days. I don’t remember much from that time… but I do remember a lot of sleeping, high fevers, delusion, and going through a few boxes of Cheez Its LOL.

Long story short, I didn’t get over Covid. I couldn’t walk to class without struggling to breathe, I was sleeping 24/7, my brain was literal mush, I was having constant left sided chest pain, and my heart rate was SO HIGH. (We’re talking 180bpm when I stood up).

Within a year I was diagnosed with Long Covid, Autonomic Neuropathy, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, Post Exertion Malaise, Fibromyalgia, Mast Cell Activation Syndrome, Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome and Inappropriate Sinus Tachycardia. I was bed bound, I gained 100lbs, I was on a million meds, I found out I could no longer do the sport I loved, and I had to stop university all together. (My brain was mush!)

To the human eye I look completely fine. Strangers wouldn’t know I have invisible illnesses and disabilities. You may see me doing something fun. But you wouldn’t know I suffer for days later. Since Sept 10, 2022 I have never felt normal. I have never felt what it is like to be healthy. I’m always suffering at some point of the day.

Fast forward to now! I’m happy. Creating content and falling back in love with beauty has brought the light back to my life. I have a purpose again. Yes I’m still sick 🙄. But I’m adaptable. I know my body perfectly. I know how to pace myself. I know my limits. I can go do something fun and not be mad when I feel like crap after. I’m on a lot of meds that help with certain symptoms. Life is finally good again. (Minus the fact that I’m still sick lol)

Ok enough with the sad stuff. Back to normal content!