CFS Recovery

Recovering from Long Covid – Alena’s Story

BACKGROUND

  • Name: Alena
  • Age: 27
  • Length of Illness: 1 year and 4 months
  • Prior Life: Highly active and functional, regularly exercising, working long hours, and maintaining an active social life.

     

CHRONIC FATIGUE SYNDROME HISTORY

  • Onset: Began after a second bout of COVID-19 in April 2022, exacerbated by stress and high physical activity levels.
  • Severity: Severe impact on daily activities, leading to being bedbound for extended periods and experiencing a significant crash after attempting a 90-mile bike ride.
  • Symptoms: Severe fatigue, dizziness, nausea, headaches, anxiety, heart palpitations, vertigo, muscle twitching, gut pain, and hypersensitivity to stimulis.

TREATMENTS

  • Solutions Tried: Consulted multiple doctors and specialists, underwent numerous tests, tried various treatments including pacing, physiotherapy, behavioral therapy, osteopathy, ozone therapy, and numerous supplements.
  • Why They Joined: Frustration from lack of clear answers and progress with traditional medical treatments. Found Recovery Jumpstart through online research and resonated with the program’s approach and success stories. 

MAJOR WINS

  • Physical Activity: Gradually increased physical activities, including going on longer walks, attending social events like Oktoberfest, and driving to university.
  • Social Engagement: Reconnected with friends, attended social events, and participated in activities like going to the movies and eating out at restaurants.
  • Mental Resilience: Developed better stress management techniques, significantly improving mental resilience and overall well-being. 

KEYS TO RECOVERY

  • Resilience and Determination: Maintained a strong commitment to recovery despite initial setbacks and ongoing challenges.
  • Structured Support: Benefited from the structured guidance and community support of the Recovery Jumpstart program, including regular check-ins and access to experienced coaches.
  • Mindset Shifts: Focused on understanding the condition, responding well to symptoms, and not overthinking recovery. 

CURRENT STATE

  • Alena has made substantial progress in her recovery from CFS. She is now able to engage in regular physical activities, manage her studies, and maintain a more balanced and positive outlook on life.
  • “Believe in yourself. If I can make it, you can make it. Everyone can make it. Just believe in yourself and don’t lose hope.”
  • Alena’s story highlights the importance of resilience, structured support, and a holistic approach to treatment. Her journey serves as a powerful example of the potential for recovery and regaining quality of life after battling severe chronic illness.