First Dose of Pfizer on 02/01/21
Second Dose of Pfizer on 02/23/21
Arizona
UPDATE 08/17/22:
I just want to share some hope with you all. A year ago today, I was in the depths of despair. I was bed-ridden and immobile, still suffering from many debilitating health problems. My pain was at a 10 most days. Today, thanks to LDN, I am significantly better and almost fully functioning most days. It has taken about 6 months to get to this point, and I still have flare-ups, but they don't slow me down much. I am exercising 4 times per week with no issues, no SOB, no PEM and no fatigue. LDN has given me my life back. I hope this is permanent, and I can someday get to 100%, but I am so grateful to be where I am now. Healing IS possible. Don't let anyone tell you this is a permanent state of dysfunction.
ORIGINAL INTERVIEW 11/16/21:
Q: What was your life like before you got the vaccine?
My life was simple. I had no restrictions and no limitations as to what I could do or accomplish. I enjoyed spending time with my family, visiting friends, and going on getaways. I loved swimming, exploring the outdoors, and staying as active as possible.
Q: What was your reaction, symptoms, & timeline?
My reaction was not immediate. I developed chills and numbness/tingling about 10 days after my second shot. Then shortly after, I developed worsening ear and head pressure. I initially attributed all of this to a chronic sinus infection because I previously experienced ear infections and allergies. When sinus meds and antibiotics did not help, I was at a loss. I then developed an incessant eyelid twitch, insane heart palpitations, tachycardia, severe chest pain, and shortness of breath. I hoped that this was a rare reaction to antibiotics, so I immediately stopped taking them. All of my symptoms persisted. I finally saw my primary care doctor in May, who ran standard blood tests, an EKG, and referred me to an ENT and cardiologist. I was still at a loss. I was perfectly healthy prior to my second Pfizer dose, and I knew this was no coincidence after all of my tests came back normal. Then the debilitating pain in my legs started. It was so excruciating that I could not shower, stand, or walk. It spread to my upper body shortly after, and was accompanied by nauseating head pressure that had me curled in the fetal position for days. I went to the ER when I realized I was losing my balance and sensations in both legs. I feared paralysis. After an MRI and CT ruled out MS, I was sent home to cope alone with the pain. I continued to develop many new symptoms months after, with no answers or treatment.
Q: What is your life like now, after getting the vaccine?
I don't have a life anymore. My pain has reached a point that it is constant and debilitating, so I can no longer do simple things like walk, clean, go to the store, or take care of my son. I am at the mercy of my family.
Q: Share your experience with any medical care and any diagnoses you have received:
No diagnosis and no medical care. I've received a few different prescriptions, but none have been effective. I was lucky to have one of my ER doctors acknowledge that this could be a vaccine reaction.
Q: Was your reaction reported, and what was the response?
VAERS. No response.
Q: Is there anything that has helped, and have your symptoms improved?
I had temporary relief when I took atorvastatin. Some symptoms have disappeared (chest pain, palpitations, paresthesia); however, my nerve and joint pain has increased over time.
Q: What do you wish others knew?
That these reactions are very real and life-altering, and are NOT a result of anxiety.
