LC 18 – PCR vs. RATs

Autumn’s chill and respiratory viruses usually arrive hand in hand. While most people who “catch a cold” don’t test for SARS-CoV-2 (COVID) any more, many who do find that their at-home tests are negative even on day 3 or 4 after symptom onset. To be clear, one in ten people infected with any COVID variant … Read more

LC 17 – Dysautonomia and the Gut

It’s been a while since my last Long Covid (LC) Series post. That is because I am better but not normal. The good news is that I have been enjoying summer in Flagstaff. There have been social interactions (virtually and outdoors), Llumination Quests (ask me about this), reading, research, writing, consults, and precious time with … Read more

LC 16 – Better, Not Normal

For the first three years living with Long Covid (and not knowing it), I spent a lot of time avoiding allergy triggers and another covid infection. I masked in public places (still do), and tested frequently for covid before and after social interactions. Most of my limited social interactions were (and still are) in outdoor … Read more

LC 15 – The Trigger Event

Readers following the Long Covid (LC) series may note that I referenced a “trigger event” that increased my symptoms in 2023. Today I want to share about this, hoping it is of some use to other LC patients. The event was related to a covid vaccine. To be very clear, I am not anti-vax and … Read more

LC 14-Radical Acceptance

In a previous post, I discussed the way Reiki and holding space are interwoven tools that help me to navigate Long Covid (LC) symptoms. While holding space (for self or others) can be learned via studying and practicing its guidelines, Reiki requires training that might be out of reach for those who are bedbound or … Read more

LC 13-An Intermezzo          

Today I’m offering an intermezzo in the multi-course dinner that is my Long Covid (LC) series. I will get back to the series in April, but for now, a little celebration is in order. For the first time since 2019, I traveled on my own to Phoenix to serve as a wedding celebrant. In some … Read more

LC12-Reiki and Holding Space

This post will weave the concepts of Reiki (pronounced ray-kee) and holding space. The Japanese word, “Reiki” translates to universal spirit (rei) and life force energy (ki or chi). Reiki has been an important component in my personal and professional life for decades. It has become more important while dealing with recent health challenges. The … Read more

LC11-Support and Holding Space

When I realized that these troubling Long Covid (LC) symptoms may never go away, I joined the Long Covid Support Group on Facebook. The group has its origins in England and has over 65K+ members worldwide. For me, the group is supportive and exemplifies what it means to hold space. These new friends face challenges … Read more

LC10-Toxic What??

Sometimes in my Facebook Support Group, a post begins with the phrase positive post. This usually precedes a report about something that brought joy or balance to the writer. Often this kind of post is about holding steady during an event like attending a graduation or birthday party. These little successes are wildly celebrated, with … Read more

LC9-More about ME

During my quest for information about myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME), also known as chronic fatigue syndrome, I found a video series by Giles Meehan called “Get Well From ME”. Watching the series helped me to understand ME, other invisible illnesses, and my own circumstances more fully, which was a comfort. The series also helped me to … Read more