Severe Covid-19 with related sepsis in late March 2020. Hospitalized. Was a very healthy 62-yr-old, healthy diet, singer, racewalking daily. No physical problems. Long Covid has demolished me.

Three years in, vaxxed and boostered. Exhaustion, brain fog, and a severe cough that has permanently damaged my vocal chords.

Within the first year of LC, I gained 40 pounds even though the coughing was (and still is) so bad that I live primarily on smoothies, water, protein drinks. Suddenly was pre-diabetic (no issues prior) and my previously lifelong low blood pressure is now high (no family history of high BP). Also within first year of LC my hair came out in handfuls, and finally cut my waist-long hair super short. I no longer recognize myself in any way.

The physical challenges are awful. But the loss of so much of my identity as a healthy singer and racewalker who fit into normal-sized clothing and had long hair (always a part of my personal identity) into a body I no longer understand, and that prevents me from getting my life back, is devastating.

I never give up or give in, but I don't recognize myself physically, mentally, or emotionally now.