LifeTides

COVID19

I’ve been doing well, feeling more like myself and getting stronger each week. But, in my last blog, I said, “we are still having to be careful about mixing with people”.

Yep, we relaxed a bit and unfortunately, Richard and I caught COVID-19. We were away at a log cabin near Inverness. When Richard felt unwell, he did a test, and it was positive. So I was still clear and feeling fine, but we didn’t think it would be long before I’d test positive.

So, we came home early, but we did manage a bike ride and a trip on the Loch beforehand. I tested positive a few days later.

So I rang to see if I would be eligible for antiviral tablets, and I was. The antiviral tablets seem to work, and my symptoms of a bad cold were doable. Richard had it worse than me, but he tested clear before me. I did test clear and was clear for four days. Then on a Tuesday evening, after a good day with a ride on the E-Bike, I felt unwell, and all the symptoms were back. And I tested positive in the morning. I was disappointed, as it was worse than before, so I rang to see if there was anything I could take, maybe antivirals again. But no, there has to be a gap of ninety days. So I was on my own with paracetamols.

I tested every other day, and the line got fainter, and the symptoms eased, and it’s now July. My thoughts are that the antivirals masked COVID19. Still, I consider myself lucky that I coped with it and hope there would be no long-term health damage. Tested the other day, and I am clear!

The CT Scan

I had my scan on 4 June. It was in a van. The old scanners were under a phased replacement scheme. It was only weeks old and technically better than the old ones. It was quicker and could give much more detail. Awesome.

My thoughts were about had the Stem Cell Transplant worked. I was feeling good, and there weren’t any lumps I could find. Will this be my big break?

15 June, I didn’t have to wait long. My consultant was on the phone as soon as the results were through. I said is it good news? She said, “yes, it was”. There was no sign of active lymphoma, only scar tissue. Fantastic, the best news ever. I am in Radiological Remission. Although not cured, it is the best place for me to be, as it could be years before it becomes active again.

We are delighted to have our lives back. Finally, Richard can stand down from his carer duties, which he has been fantastic at, loving, caring, and patient. So, he can relax more, and we can both get on and enjoy life.

I’ve been busy updating my CV as I’m looking for a new part-time job. I have so much energy and enthusiasm to return to living my life.

I’m pleased with my fitness. Remember, I’m the tortoise and not the hare. Still not back to full strength, but I’m doing well. Considering what my body has been through these last two and half years, I’ll take it.

I’m so grateful that we have NHS Scotland. Thanks to all who dedicate their time and energy to making the service work in difficult times.

Always try a little more!

@carolelifetides

Strive for progress, not perfection

David Perlmutter