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DiscussionWhat did you find most surprising once you were out of the ICU?
Intensive Care (ICU) | Last Active: Dec 16, 2021 | Replies (107)Comment receiving replies
Replies to "I was touched to see this article come out, and to receive the email that my..."
Good to hear from you, Alex. Can you tell me more about how you “hold space for your grief” especially as anniversaries approach?
Thanks for sharing a bit of your story alex12119! It is such a personal and intense experience it often feels overwhelming. I'm 17 months out from the ICU and still struggling with mobility and a sadness that is difficult for others to understand. I was alone in the ICU due to the Covid restrictions. I truly needed my family to help me deal with the pain, hallucinations and paranoia, but it was verboten. Once I was off the ventilator, I relearned how to use my cell phone I could at least hear from them. It was a blessing! Until I met my new internist a year ago, no doctor had validated my PICs experience. He ordered physical therapy and I am able to walk a quarter mile or so now (using a walker, but up and moving). My life has changed, but I am grateful for each new day. I am able to volunteer at a food bank, cook a meal, play with my dog and give thanks for the wonderful people in my life.