Thread by @fi_lowenstein

One year ago today, I developed my first symptoms of COVID-19. Over the past 12 months, I have battled issues ranging from severe GI issues to debilitating menstrual periods, started the @itsbodypolitic support group, and have helped to shape the media narrative around #LongCovid

some key takeaways from this past year:

1. I am strong af. But, I can't do everything alone. There is power in community, and strength in asking for help.

2. Economic and white privilege played an enormous role in my experience being easier than many other patients'...

I was mostly able to access care when I needed it. I was able to quit paid work and live off my savings when I needed enormous amounts of rest. I credit my (mostly full) recovery to that time I spent resting and pacing.

3. Recovery is not linear...

Many #LongCovid patients experience cycling symptoms, post-exertional malaise, crashes, and set-backs. I am no different. Despite having regained most of my former health, I am not the person I was before I got COVID. My mental and physical health have been severely impacted

4. Health and illness cannot be viewed through a one size fits all approach. Individualized care that considers patients’ wants, needs, resources, and identities is crucial.

5. The best thing to come out of this year is the new knowledge I've gained. May I always be learning 💜

I could not have survived this year without the support of my partner, my parents, my friends, and everyone I met online – from #LongCovid patients to other chronically ill and disabled people, to the journalists, scientists, doctors, and activists who are our allies #1year1virus