COVID-19: A Message from an Immunocompromised Student
My life was a wreck even before the pandemic.
My disabilities will always be a never-ending problem in my everyday life. I have a rare connective tissue disability known as Ehlers Danlos Syndrome, a heart condition called PoTS, and the oh-so-wonderful Hashimoto’s autoimmune disease. One positive thing brought about by this pandemic is more accessibility and options for people in the disabled community, like myself.
COVID-19 has allowed people with disabilities to access their classes and work from their homes in a whole new way. I did not realize how big of an impact that would have on my life…
I’m stereotyped as an irresponsible college student.
I wish this was a joke, but it is 100% true. My disabilities are chronic and invisible, which means on the outside I look completely normal. People look at me and think I am disregarding the high-risk. Want to know something? I am the high-risk. Don’t judge someone based on their physical appearance. Everyone struggles whether you can see it or not.
I can’t leave my house much.
It is a good thing I am an introvert. As much as I would love to see all of my friends, my health won’t allow it. I try to keep myself socializing with the same 6 or so people regularly, but that is a rare occurrence.
Exercise and physical therapy are a challenge.
Walking and low-impact exercise are crucial for my joints. Right now, going to The Rec is not the best option for me, even though the track calls my name. I have to do all of my physical therapy exercises in my living room, and let me tell you, I’m not motivated enough to do it.
I can’t wear masks outside or in high-stress environments.
Yep, you heard that right. Because of my PoTS, my circulatory system isn’t the best. I need more oxygen than the normal person to actually get it to my brain. With masks and this Alabama heat, I will pass out every time I go outside.
Note: for the sake of people like me, PLEASE wear your masks. It helps keep me safe when I can’t protect my own body.
Doctors’ appointments are insanely stressful.
Because of how high-risk I am, leaving the comfort of my home to go to my numerous doctors’ appointments is terrifying. It only takes one exposure for me to end up in the hospital. A positive from this is that my doctors actually understand this. If the appointment can be done over Zoom or a phone call, it will be.
From an immunocompromised college student to you, please be cautious when leaving your house. There are people just like me all around Auburn, unable to protect themselves from their immune systems. Please wear your masks, social distance, and sanitize your tables. You could be saving a life.
Be mindful and…
Be well, Auburn
Photography: Abbey C.
Copy Editor
Born and raised in Huntsville, Alabama, Abbey is an icee and horror movie addict just trying to major in visual journalism. She loves music, photography, and possibly every type of dog that exists. When she isn’t at work or class, you can find her binge watching The Office, eating Mexican food, laughing at her own jokes, or at a local trivia night.
If Abbey is ever up before nine in the morning, she didn’t fall asleep the night before. Her favorite ways to stay active are playing volleyball, running away from her problems, and walking The Rec’s track with her friends. Her dream is to become a photographer and writer for a major magazine or newspaper.
