When your still fighting covid and the flu

Hey Lemon8 fam! 👋 So, who else has been in the thick of it lately? I'm talking about the double whammy – fighting off both the flu and COVID-19 at the same time. Honestly, it's been a ride, and I wanted to share my journey, especially for anyone else going through something similar. It really does feel like an 'itsucks' situation, especially with the constant nausea making everything a challenge. When I first started feeling unwell, I just thought it was a bad cold. But then the intense body aches hit, followed by a persistent cough and that tell-tale fatigue. Getting both diagnoses felt like a punch to the gut. The energy drain was immense, and some days, just getting out of bed felt like running a marathon. But through it all, I kept reminding myself: 'She's tough!' and tried to push through with a positive mindset, much like the 'Stand by Me :)' message I've been seeing in my head. One of the biggest struggles for me was managing the nausea. I found that small, frequent meals of bland foods like crackers, toast, and clear broths really helped. Staying hydrated was also key, even when I didn't feel like drinking. I kept a water bottle by my side at all times and sipped on ginger tea for its soothing properties. Resting as much as possible was non-negotiable. I literally just let my body do its thing and focused on sleep, because your body needs that extra energy to fight off these viruses. Mentally, it was really tough to stay 'stillsmiling' when I felt so run down. But I made sure to indulge in little comforts. Wearing my favorite comfy plaid jacket, listening to calming music, or just looking at bright, cheerful photos helped lift my spirits. I also made sure to reach out to my friends and family. Knowing I had a support system, even if it was just a quick text exchange, made a huge difference. They were my personal 'Stand by Me' crew, checking in and offering support when I needed it most! Remember, it's okay to not be okay, but it's also important to find those small ways to empower yourself. Don't hesitate to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice, especially if your symptoms worsen or you're feeling overwhelmed. My biggest takeaway from this experience is the importance of listening to your body and being kind to yourself. Recovery isn't a race. So, if you're battling the flu, COVID, or both, remember to stay legendary in your own way – whether that's resting, finding joy in small moments, or just being tough enough to get through another day. Sending virtual hugs from Cleveland!