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| Heather |
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My experience with encephalitus (eastern equine) was in Sept 1991. I got it from a mosquito while I was in Florida. I was visiting family in Massachusetts
when it hit. I remember being sick a few days before with a headache, flu like symptoms and a really high fever. I got better but when I got sick
again it really was bad. I remember being in a fog. I was staying at my grandmother’s and I got up and stayed in my pj’s all day. My grandmother said
I was very quiet and sometimes when I talked I didn't make sense. I recall just trying to feel better. So I took a hot bath but I was too concerned
that the sharks would get me!
Later that night I started having seizures. I was taken to the hospital and then taken by flight for life to Boston University. I don't remember any of that. The doctor told my grandparents that I wouldn't make it.
I was in a coma for about 4 days. I woke up and was really in a daze. I remember throwing up all the time. I remember the spinal taps they did.I had horrible nightmares/hallucinations after the coma. I would wake up and see someone standing at the end of my bed. It was terrifying!
Recovery took about 6 months.
This happened 13 years ago and I don't think I ever fully recovered. I feel like I don't know the person I am, if anyone can understand that. The person I used to be before the coma is gone. My memory is horrible. I have a hard time with math. Many memories are gone. Just bits and pieces here and there. Also many feelings with them are gone too. I feel like a empty shell sometimes.
I have problems with my thyroid. Depression is also a problem. There are days I feel like I am in a "fog". I have never shared any of this with anyone. I never saw doctors after because I didn't have health insurance back then. I am so thankful for this website.
If anyone would like to share there stories with me please feel free to email!! I should be at this email for many years.
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Heather
Florida, U.S.A.
Posted: Dec 13, 2005 |
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