On Recovering From The Coronavirus
Recent weeks have passed as if in a dream. I have no more memory of the symptoms of the virus now than if the experience had been itself a dream. Yet I know it was real and I count myself fortunate to have survived and to be here writing to you, lucky to have suffered such a mild version of the symptoms that I am able to recount it placidly from the safety of hindsight.
One day, I was feeling low and so I made myself a hot water bottle and went to bed in the afternoon. That night a fever came upon me and my limbs grew loose until the connection between my body and my self became dislocated. My joints ached as if my shoulders and hips were being wrenched apart like a doll. I took a paracetamol tablet and, twisting and turning in my bed, submitted myself to a slumber so deep that I lost my self entirely.
I was awoken by stomach problems, pacing back and forth to the bathroom endlessly through a day, each time drinking water to replace what I had lost until the clear liquid simply ran through my system as if my body no longer had any substance. I felt cold all over and could not shake off the chills. Daylight hurt my eyes and my feet became sensitive and sore. My head ached and I was overcome with a powerful weariness. After taking a rest on the sofa, on rising I found I did not have the strength to walk to my bedroom and had to wait until I could summon the energy to make it back to bed.
When night came again, the fever returned and I took a second paracetamol tablet. By now, I had a shortness of breath and my throat was sore with the loss of my voice. A few years ago, I had pneumonia and learnt the agony of trying to breathe when your cough reverberates so harshly it bruises your ribs. Now I lay in the dark breathing deliberately, slowly and deeply, fearful that the virus was spreading to my lungs. Without appetite and without eating for two days, feeling the irritation in my chest, I drifted into delirium as if I were possessed by an alien spirit. My loss of self was such that I was passively unaware of the degree or severity of my illness, I was completely in the sway of the virus.
Yet I slept through the night and my stomach problems subsided, even if now my torso was wracked by cramps and aches as well as chills. I lay on my back as weak as I ever felt in my life, dozing with heavy limbs.
How thankful I was for a bowl of soup next day which seemed the most delicious I ever had, soothing my sore throat. After that the fever did not return, instead a midnight craving for cheese on toast surprised and uplifted me, even if it was uncomfortable to digest. That night there was deep sleep without fever, but I awoke with conjunctivitis, my left eye sore and scratchy and watery, the discomfort crowding my consciousness.
For a week I dozed through each day and slept all night without recovering any strength. My shortness of breath and loss of voice persisted and I lay filled with silent anxiety over whether these problems might overwhelm me, taking the breath and the life from me entirely. I realised I was adrift and helpless, a mental paralysis accompanied my physical weakness. Time flew away but there was a stasis in which I was not getting any better.
I recall having influenza as a child and lying in semi-delirium for weeks, enjoying the dreamy otherworldly-ness, secure in the knowledge that recovery would arrive. No such consolation was a available to me with the Coronavirus as I lay waiting to discover whether my condition would deteriorate.
As I have done in the past when afflicted with flu, I took the initiative to recover by rising and doing simple tasks, yet they exhausted me. I recognised I was at the mercy of the virus with no choice but to rest and hope. After ten days, my chest cleared, my voice came back, my eye recovered and my body returned to me. A sense of raw emotionalism and vulnerability remain as if a layer of skin has been removed. Repeatedly, I think of what could have been and what so many have suffered, and how many thousands have died.
Two paracetamol tablets were all I took. Several weeks earlier, I read in the newspaper that this was the necessary medication only to discover that chemists had already sold out. In desperation to be prepared, I visited newsagents and found several selling paracetamol at inflated prices but then another, in Harrow Place off Petticoat Lane, who sold me a whole bottle for one pound and twenty pence. I shall be certain to go back to that shop again.
Now I am – at last – recovered, I look back and appreciate my good fortune to have experienced relatively mild symptoms and been in such good health that I could beat the virus. After this, the beauty of the spring with all the plants sprouting green and shining has overwhelmed me with joy. Each morning, I begin my day by watering the garden and, when I step out of the door into the sunlight, I am startled by the new growth since the day before.
Most of all I am grateful that my fear of catching the virus has ebbed and I hope I may even be immune. I want to get an antibody test to find out, but in the meantime I shall continue to take precautions. Even though I am no longer infectious, I do not want to risk spreading it if I were to become reinfected and, above all, I want to be safe.
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Gosh you kept that quiet. Good to know you have such good helpers to keep the blog going. So pleased to know you are on the mend.
OMG GA, I am horrified that you caught this virus and also relieved that you were one of the fortunate ones who recovered. This has been a terrible time for everyone, with lots of conflicting advice/facts, with confusion about what to do and how to live and carry on. I am glad to hear that you are on the mend and I hope that everyone’s life will get back to “normal” (whatever that is). Take care and love and hugs.
How awful. Wishing you a full recovery.
Sorry to hear that you’ve had the virus but so pleased that you’ve come through. Keep well, take it easy and continue to recover x
I am very pleased to hear that you have recovered. My son had almost the same symptoms. I was able to see him for the first time yesterday. It’s a mysterious illness but it makes you wonder what a serious case is, if what you went through is described as “mild”
I am so sorry to hear of your ordeal: be kind to yourself Gentle Author. Sending every possible strengthening thought.
I’m sorry to hear you caught this dreadful bug and am thankful to hear you are recovering and feeling better. Take good care!
So very glad to hear that your are on the mend.
Oh my! I haven’t been keeping up with the blog and didn’t realize you were suffering from the virus – how glad I am that you’ve recovered.
So sorry to hear that you suffered the Evil Bug. I’m so glad to hear that you fought it off like a champion. Be well, be safe, and welcome back to your healthy self.
Thank you for such a clear and moving post on your episode of illness. I think
we could almost walk through it day by day with you. The drifting away and the gradual return is so poignant. So very glad you are on the mend and appreciate your openness and clarity…The photo of the guardian in the window is a tender reminder of the faithfulness of our companion creatures.
I am SO glad that you got better! If that’s a mild case I can’t imagine a more serious one. How awful for you and how wonderful you must have felt when you knew you were getting well. So happy to have you back.
I’m grateful you’ve recovered. Your work adds to my life and I would miss you. My best to you from Seattle.
Relatively mild? If that was mild I shudder to think of strong symptoms. I was the kind of ill you described-one time- about 8 years ago. I know not what from but had I had cyanide I may have taken it. You are a braver soul than me! I am grateful you recovered. And your account serves all of us well to “be alert” as your government is saying.
Oh my goodness. Thankful you are on the mend. Peace and take care.
I’m so relieved that you’ve made a complete recovery. Your blog has been a source of comfort and consolation to me for more years than I can recall. Please take good care of yourself as you return to full health!
Dear Good Sir,
Good health is a blessing and the greatest abundance of wealth. May The cat angels always guard you always.
We bow down we bow down humbly
What a harrowing tale, and to think you had to endure this not knowing if you could … I hope your recovery is speedy.
I am so glad you have recovered. You dismiss your experience as mild, but it sounds a frightening ordeal.
Please continue to rest up and wishing you a speedy recovery.
Wishing you the peace of a gentle recovery, as gentle and peaceful as a cat looking out of an upstairs window.
Glad to see you have recovered stay safe
We met many years ago in spitalfields at book launch. I followed your stories daily and weekly
I’m so happy you have recovered! Many good wishes x
This came as a surprise and I’m glad you survived to describe it so well.
Take care
Thank you for sharing your experience so beautifully – we wish you a speedy return to full strength to enjoy this glorious Spring!
I am so sorry to learn of all the trauma you had to endure alone after catching the dreadful virus. It is some comfort to know that you are on the mend now, and I hope you make a full recovery in time. I’m sure colors look brighter to you now and food tastes better, and you have a warm kitty to keep you company. Continued good health to you!
What a ghastly experience. You must be so relieved to be on the other side of this now. I hope there is somebody to keep an eye on you?
God bless you in your journey through the Covid virus. I am sure being in your cozy home with the good company of your cat helped. I wish you a full recovery with sincerity. Here in Tucson, Arizona, the president wants businesses opening, and thankfully the State Governor is in charge. We have great concerns because the doctors advise that opening the economy too quickly will bring a rebound to square one in the fall. This lockdown has been quite an experience in how people can stay separated and remain kind loving people. We are so thankful for all the heroes who have been on the front line for the better good of all.
Mary from Tucson–from English Huguenot Rondeau ancestors
Had you died I should have missed you, and regretted you. I am glad that you have been spared.
You gave of yourself uninterruptedly all through the bad time. That is much. Thank you.
I am so glad you recovered and hope you do now have immunity so you can once again explore the city. But I am horrified that you considered those mild symptoms. We live in frightening times indeed.
What a wonderful article, so beautifully written, giving an understanding of what it is like to have Covid-19. It is striking that, aside from two paracetamol, your illness could have been endured and described in the same way in mediaeval times. It is so good that you have survived to go on delighting your readers each morning.
Dear GA, so sorry you have been so ill. Your daily blogs arriving in my inbox are a constant delight and comfort, especially in these dark days. May you continue to regain your strength and be well. God bless you and Schrodinger.
Thank goodness you have recovered. Keep well.
I too was bed bound for nearly three weeks at the beginning of Lockdown. Like a bad hangover and the recovery was gradual but like you I now really can’t recall the symptoms. But I had a supply of paracetamol taken every four hours so I don’t know how you coped and kept up the daily blog. Glad to know you are feeling better.
thank you
Pretty much how I felt, but you described it more eloquently! Only have a tiny garden but the joy of sitting there when weather permits, listening to the birds and watching their antics, seeing the plants bursting into life, watching the clouds roll by. Simple pleasures…..
Best wishes to you x
Wishing you all the best . What a vivid account of the illness . It sounds awful so glad you feel better
This is my favourite of all your writings, to hear that you are well.
And please promise to remember take the advice of the PM Matt Lucas said… Don’t go to work, go to work, don’t take public transport, go to work, don’t go to work, stay indoors, if you can work from home go to work, go outside, don’t go outside, and then we will, or won’t, or something…
Glad you have recovered from this awful disease. I so enjoy reading about this corner of London and its people.
How beautifully you write about it, Gentle Author. If ever there were a moment for thanking you for all the joy your emails have brought me over the years, this is it. Thank you and I hope there are many joys ahead for you.
Glad to hear you are on the mend now. Also thanks for sharing the symptoms and all that you went through.. hope you’ll slowly regain your strength in the coming days.
So sorry to hear you caught the virus and thankful to know you have recovered. Your wonderful blog has been something to look forward to each and every day, especially during these difficult times. Stay well and safe.
Dear Gentle Author,
I was one of the attendees on your last blog-writing course.
I am so sorry to learn of your having contracted Coronavirus and to read your account of your awful struggles in overcoming this awful virus.
Thankfully, you’re on the road to recovery, but the heartbreak of so many others have been consumed by this terrible pandemic continues to affect us all.
I hope you soon return to full strength. Meanwhile, may the warmth of the sunshine and the beauty of Spring help to heal you.
All the best.
Laura
Wow ..a close encounter! Do take care & don’t over exert yourself just yet. All good wishes for your health.
I’m so relieved you’re better. Take care and best wishes.
So pleased to read you are alive! I too had mild (very) symptoms The best description I have read. Take care. Be well. Lx
So shocked to hear this. Wishing you a speedy and complete recovery. With very best wishes.
This reminds me of the writings of the great Russian authors this is a most touching version I have read of someone with the covid-19
I am so sorry to hear you had the virus. A very anxious time for you. I hope you are feeling much better. Please take care, love to you and a pat for Schrodinger. I am sure he is a great comfort and company for you during these crazy times, as is my lovely cat Max. Xx
So shocked to hear you caught the virus but relieved to hear you are on the mend. Take care of yourself and rest up until you fully recover. These are difficult times.
Good heavens, you poor soul – that hardly sounds “mild”! It was good that you concentrated on your breathing, btw. I read an article by a doctor who got the virus and ended up in hospital, on oxygen. He felt that just focusing on regular breathing kept him calmer than he might otherwise be (and, of course, given that he wrote about the experience, he lived to tell the tale). I do hope you continue to gather your strength and feel fully recovered soon; I understand it can be a lengthy process.
Your experience sounds terrible, I am so glad that you are recovering and able to appreciate our beautiful world, in these dark times a daily escape to Spitalfields with you is a blessing.
I am so very sorry to hear that you have been so unwell but thank you for your vividly written account. I hope you’re able to take life slowly and carefully over the next few weeks and wish you a full recovery.
I’m so glad to hear your on the mend – take care. Looking forward to reading all your future posts.
So glad you are fully recovered. Thanks for the description of the symptoms, the most complete I’ve seen. Love the 2 photos in the post.
Thank you for taking the time to write this , many of us no not what to expect or that which we may have to also go through , I also remember the Flu and the fevers but as you say it was something that you could get over, here we have something that a Nurse just teeeted is a “ real Shit” so we do need to take care , heed the warnings and be vigilant I hope you continue to full health
Alan ( haysie56)
You poor dear. I am so sorry to read your chilling news this morning. You have borne this utterly devastating virus bravely; you must be very strong. I hope you continue to gradually regain your vitality and strenth as the weeks pass for you in beautiful Spitalfields.
What a truly shocking, yet personally enlightening experience you’ve had. I’m so very glad you’re feeling better and in the telling of the tale you’re helping others to face their fears and to be inspired by your recovery. Continue to be well in the wholeness of your self. Thank you for sharing this and I’m sending you love in your healing.
PS … when you are feeling up to teaching another blogging course, might you consider doing so via zoom? It would be something to look forward to for all of us.
I hope you have quite recovered your health now. The unpredictability of this plague definitely contributes to the general atmosphere of fear and vulnerability surrounding us. Thanks for writing about your experience with such simple clarity.
Hi, I’m sorry to hear of your illness GA, but pleased that you have made a recovery.
A horrible disease that we have been fighting against here in Spain for a few months now.
Thank you again for your great piece and support for when they were closing Clerkenwell Fire Station, a fair time ago now.
All the best
Tim
Your voice would be missed sincerely if you weren’t there. I know from what you’ve written that you’ve spent a lot of time in America. I left London four years ago, but follow you daily. Best wishes for your full recovery! Sincerely, John Epstein/Houston, Texas
A wonderfully written piece about an awful experience.
Thanks for your writing GA and thanks that you are in recovery.
Love and prayers to you.
So glad to read that you are back in circulation.
And to see Schrodinger looking so well, too.
I am very sorry to hear that you have been unwell, but I am very pleased you are now through to the other side.
Take good care of yourself and thank you for always delivering something so special to my inbox each day.
Thanks for writing so honestly about your experience. Really glad to hear you have survived and are so much better. Keep safe.
Dear Gentle Author,
So sorry to hear this news, how frightening and worrying for you.
Thank goodness you have recovered and now you MUST rest and allow the healing to continue.
I’m sure you have many nearby friends who can deliver food and other necessities so please….sit in the sunshine in your lovely garden and continue to get stronger each day.
Sending you a virtual hug.
Beautifully written. So pleased you are on the road to recovery now and that you had the staunch Schrodinger with you through it all. Don’t hurry, we will all be here when you are strength ten once more.
I wasn’t expecting to read that this morning! would never have guessed. Do hope you are well on the road to recovery. Stay safe.
Oh my, whilst enjoying my daily read of Spitalfield Life you were suffering so much – welcome back to the world. Your account of what you went through during that terrible time should be required reading to let us know how important it is to follow guidelines of distancing in whatever way we can and take every precaution we can to avoid catching this dreadful virus.
Bless you, what a harrowing story and what a dreadful episode in your life. So pleased you are recovered and back with pen in hand again. Keep safe.
So sorry to hear that. Our course in February seems so long ago and little did we know how things would change.
Wishing you a return to rude health and better things to come.
My best wishes Sheree
I’m sorry to hear that you were so poorly, but thank you for writing so eloquently about your experience, and I’m very glad to hear that you’re on the mend.
I am so glad you pulled through this… you’re account
Really brings home the reality of this
Awful pandemic…
Thank you for sharing
Dear G.A., terribly sorry you had such a bad time and I am very glad you are feeling better. You’re incredible, you managed to post something everyday, as if nothing was wrong. I don’t know how you did it, but congratulations. And I also feel reassured Schrödinger was there to keep you company and help you within his possibilities. Take very good care of yourself.
I’m pleased and thankful that you got through and beat the virus. For some of us who believe they’ve had a dose of this virulent bug and survived, to know personally of those who got it and didn’t survive is a mixture of thankfulness and sorrow. Stay safe and well.
Thank you for sharing your experience of Covid 19 in such a vivid way… it sounds horrendous.
Like everyone else I’m delighted that you have recovered, and very grateful that you have managed to keep the daily blog going through it all (can Schrodinger type?)
I was also interested in the craving for cheese on toast – we always used to have Marmite soldiers as the first meal into recovery when we were ill…
Enjoy the garden, stay safe, stay well, and keep on writing. xxx
Oh my goodness!
So very glad to hear you have come safely through the virus – I can only vaguely imagine what it must have been like.
Take care of yourself now – hope you recover completely soon, we can’t do without your wonderful writings!
I am so sorry to hear of your ordeal, Gentle Author. You are a hero for keeping your blogs going during all that difficult time. We so much love to read your blogs. Get well and strong soon.
So happy you have recovered.
What a wonderful description, so horrifying even if it was (luckily) not a more serious attack.
Thank you so much for writing this. ❤️❤️❤️❤️
Dear GA
That’s was beautifully written, albeit in sad circumstances. You’re well now, and so pleased. Like others here, without your Daily Blog, we would miss you. We are in lockdown in Spain, but I realised when we sort of ‘open’ tomorrow, the thing I will miss about it … Peace and Quiet, No traffic noise, just the sound of Nature. God Bless
Somehow I sensed that all was not well. So pleased that you have come through. Gow kiarail – take care, in Manx.
Goodness me, so very sorry you’ve been ill and very relieved you’re on the road to recovery. I have followed you for many years now and attended a couple of book launches. We did meet at The East End Vernacular launch and exhibition, where you kindly signed the book for me. Thank you for sharing your experience on here and I hope that you can continue with your excellent posts about life in the city and beyond. Stay safe and well.
So glad you have recovered. What would we do without your blog each day?
All the very best to you. What a horrible experience. Wishing you health and happiness and keep up the marvellous writing.
I am so sorry to hear that you went through this, it sounded very frightening. Keep getting better and it’s comforting to know you have your cat beside you.
I’m so pleased you’re on the mend x
Phew! What a relief and what a phenomenal achievement keeping the blog going. Welcome back to one of the loveliest springs ever.
Dear GA, give yourself time to rest.
So glad you have recovered and thank you as ever for describing the experience and meaning of life so beautifully.
So glad to hear you survived the virus ! It was realy scary reading about you being so sick; your daily posts are a restpoint in my life. You have a real heart for people 🙂
Welcome back 😉
Great to hear you are on the mend .
Sounds like a pretty rough time for you.
Take care of yourself my friend, you provide a valuable service to us all, and it is greatly appreciated
So sorry to hear you have had the virus – and yet you kept posting – you are amazing!
Please look after yourself until you are fully restored to health .
What a beautifully written account of something that must have been so frightening and horrific. Thank heavens that you are recovering and we can continue to enjoy your work
wow I never even realised you were ill, sounds awful just very pleased you pulled through hope you build in strength until you are back to your old self take care now xx
Oh GA, so sorry that you’ve had it and relieved that you are now firmly on the mend. It is the unpredictability of this damn thing that is so frightening and puts it in a different category to eg ‘normal’ flu.
Sending heartfelt best wishes from Suffolk
Laura
I had no idea that you were a COVID-90 victim and am so thankful that you have recovered. It’s so good that you were able to write about it from such a personal angle and I’m sure your report of suffering from it will be historical. Thank you so much for such a marvellous, detailed article. I also love the thought that the wonderful Schrodinger was your constant companion and, as always, love the photos of him. He has become a truly handsome cat! I will write to you separately about my domestic situation. Very best wishes, Greg
That is such an evocative piece. I hope when this is done an archive is created by The Museum of London. Your writing must surely be included. Good wishes for continued strength and recovery and continued inspirational writing.
So thankful that you are feeling better X …. keep safe GA, your Readers need you …
Poor you – I had something similar and decided after a few days it mustn’t be the virus, but now you’re making me wonder. Very glad you’ve recovered but I feel you should have let the blog go while you were so unwell.
So pleased to hear of your recovery. Your description of the illness is a credit to your fortitude and self-discipline in the face of a frightening event, particularly given you live alone save for the redoubtable Schroeder. It is also a useful guide for those of us who might yet fall prey to the virus. May you outlive many such difficulties!
So thankful that you’ve recovered from the virus and have been able to continue enlightening us with your beautiful blog.
Dear Gentle Author,
I’m so sorry to hear that you have been afflicted, but have read your account with great interest. Thank you for sharing your experience. Very best wishes for a continuing recovery.
Marion
I am glad you have recovered and are still with us
So sorry and shocked to hear of your recent illness. Your daily posting brings comfort to so many people and has brought light to so many over these past months. I hope your recovery is swift and you can rest and recuperate and get back to your old self. Thanks as always for all your hard work.
Thoughts and best regards,
John
Glad you are still with us GA and thank you for sharing the dreadful experience. Take care.
Thank you for telling us so graphically and fully. I wish this could be read by everyone. I live in the US, now run by a hideous monster who refuses to acknowledge what this illness is, and does everything he can that is counterproductive to helping people in the US and the rest of the world. This is courageous, right to do.
I am at the same time so sorry you suffered so. How frightened you must’ve been. Again how courageous and intelligent your response. I am so glad you have recovered and are back. Like the others I did not realize that this blog had been silent — perhaps you had others posting for you.
You must now take care of your self very well.
What eloquent words to describe such an awful experience. Dear GA, I pray for your continued recovery from this terrible virus and give thanks that you are still here to speak to us.
Echoing everyone’s comments. We all draw strength from your words each day and even more so now. It’s the little things in life we can draw on in times of trouble but so hard to believe the virus takes it down to the act of drawing in and out of breath. Well done and thank you.
Keep well. Hope you reach a day that you can treat yourself in some small way for surviving this far…..a hug for Mr Pussy…
With best wishes
from Linda x
So sorry to hear you had the virus. Wishing you a full and speedy recovery. Jane and Paul
Mr Pussy was looking down and praying for you.
That you are still here is part of my joy in this profoundly beautiful spring.
xxx
Oh GA. I’m so glad To read that you’re on the road to recovery, and that you had a kind soup maker as well as beautiful Schrodinger to bring a little comfort. Your blog has continued to give me quiet, contented moments all through this terrible time, as it always has. Take your time to get properly better.
Thank you for sharing this in such a poetic manner. The rythym of the illness so beautifully captured in words; the full horror of what might have been looming behind them, ever present yet kept at bay
. I look forward to each daily missive from you and am thankful that there will be more.
Dear GA, So relieved to know that you are feeling stronger every day. Nature is helping us and is our consolation. Keep well. Best wishes to you and Mr Pussy.
Goodness, this is a chilling account. So glad you are on the mend, but take it slowly. I must admit, I’m having terrible trouble connecting this awful virus with the most amazing spring I’ve ever known.
What a beautifully expressed account of your stoical recovery from this fearful and horrid virus. How you kept your daily contributions to this calming and invigorating journal going is amazing, though I had noticed a greater frequency of “guest “ contributions.
I do hope your mother has stayed free of the virus and wish you all well. Take it gently .
Marcus (retired doctors, so obey the orders!)
Reading your blog, along with a strong cup of tea, is the necessary start to my day. Thank you Gentle Author. But today’s blog shocked me out of my comfortable complacency, I’m so sorry you suffered such a severe attack of this nasty virus, happy that you have fought it off and wish you all the best for your recovery.
I am so sorry that you have been so ill and worried but pleased that you are back up and running now ~~~ well perhaps not running just yet, but walking I hope. I wonder where and how you caught it?
Stay well now GA and give Schrodinger a big hug, he will have been so concerned about you. I hope he is all right?
I have had it also and I live in France. It worries me that you have not been seen by a doctor as it has complications: one of these is hypercoagulation. I have this anyway so I was already on a blood thinner but you are still at risk of embolisms/deep vein thrombosis: you need a blood test for this; also press your legs to see if they are painful. You have had it quite badly. I have had 2 doctors visit and two nurses as the French Health Service is efficient and was well-prepared. Bonne sante!
What flavour soup was it?
I am happy you’ve recovered and grateful you’ve written such a detailed description of what you went through. As much as we all take measures to prevent becoming infected, it is helpful to know what to expect if the worse happens.
I am really sorry to hear that you were unwell with this horrendous virus but happy to hear that you have recovered and are feeling better. Stay safe and look after yourself.
GA, the sheer number and the sentiments behind all these messages are evidence enough (but not needed) of the affection and gratitude of everyone who reads your daily blog.
My profound thanks for helping me to understand this very special part of London that holds so many family connections stretching back for over 150 years. My sincere wishes for a speedy recovery to full health.
I am so glad that you are well and had a milder version. Please stay well. I found you recently and hope to read. Many more of your wonderful communications GA.
Glad to hear you’re feeling better.
Oh good grief. What a nightmare, and none of us had any idea due to your blogs arriving daily. Thank goodness you are now recovering, and long may you stay healthy.
Thank you so much for sharing your experience.
It is a timely reminder of where we still are and of the ongoing risks, especially in the face of the bluster (and the idiocy) that appears to pertain around ‘flattening the curve’ and the idea that we are somehow past the worst of this … especially from those who should know better!
My sincerest best wishes for your continuing recovery from this awful virus.
Well done on recovering and thankfully not feeling any worse than what was already an ordeal.
Greetings from Boston,
GA, oh, thank goodness you survived the coronavirus! What a scary experience. It must have been tough being alone with only Mr. Shroedinger (sp.?). Indeed, he must have been concerned with the change in your daily routines. Thank you for describing the course of the illness in such detail.
I had to look up “paracetamol.” Commonly sold on this side of the pond as Tylenol, a form of acetaminophen. This medication was also in short supply here as the virus approached.
Again, so glad you survived and lived to tell the tale. Whoever thought that the UK and the US would be so profoundly affected by this scourge?
Stay well.
What a terrifying experience, I’m really sorry to hear you have been so ill. Glad that you are on the mend! Stay well! And thank you for keeping the blog going!
What an intense blog entry today!
While reading it I had to remind myself it was you, GA, writing it–not someone from the past so wonderfully captured on your pages.
“Mild” case of the virus? May I continue to never be touched by the Scourge in any way at all! Your description of what you suffered should be read by all who refuse to stay in, and/or wear a mask.
I am sad to read that you went through this terror alone–no friends are mentioned as ministering angels during your dark days. I don’t know how you managed with no one but Schrodinger to provide warmth. But you did.
And how you ever kept your blog going, even with guest writers mixed into the splendid array we’ve come to expect every morning.
May Spring bring you all the peace, beauty, and gusto you need. Take care!
So glad to hear of your recovery. Take things easy though, stay away from others (for your own good as well as your neighbors), and keep drinking that soup! If I weren’t still in lockdown in NYC I’d send you some of my Jewish penicillin (East End style chicken-soup)!
So pleased that you’re on the mend. How on earth did you manage to keep your blog going? We (I, at any rate), had no idea,
I am so glad that you are feeling much better. Your entries on the blog seemed a bit shorter for a while but I usually imagine that one can put that down to the daily/weekly ebb and flow of our lives and didn’t really question it. Your description of symptoms and the arc of the illness make me think that a doctor or health worker would appreciate how clear and precise your observations are, always a feature of your writing whatever the topic or subject.
And the photograph. Is that a curtain or blind with a map of Spitalfields or the East end on it?
Stay well.
I am so,so glad that you are feeling better and have recovered from this awful virus. You must have great strength of character to deal with it so rationally. Please continue to look after yourself and treat yourself as you would a loved best friend. I’m glad Shrodinger has such wonderful healing powers.
I am so very glad you have recovered although the symptoms sound most disorientating and unpleasant. Thank you for taking the time to describe what you experienced: I think this has been lacking from other sources meaning many people just presume that if it isn’t life threatening then its easy and almost symptomless – all grades in between are just ignored and its hard to understand or empathise. Wishing you all the best for a full recovery and thriving plants.
Thank you for this incredibly detailed account. I have shared with many over here across the pond in the USA. Happy to know that you have recovered.
GA, Had your GRs known, we undoubtedly would have sent vats of soup, bushels of homemade and toasted bread, and cases of fresh fruit, along with hugs and good wishes. But, you apparently had help, and I am grateful that you are now well.
A first hand account of your illness and survival, so sorry you had to be one of the COVID victims. Be kind to yourself and I wish you a full recovery. I read in your blogs of the losses around you and good you had the reserve to bring you through.
My admiration for having kept Spitalfields Life going during all this ordeal of yours. How glad I am you won the battle against covid. Very best wishes for your full recovery!
What a frightening experience. Wishing you well in the coming days.
I’m so sorry that you had to suffer through this awful virus, but very glad to hear you’re on the mend. Wishing you a quick recovery!
We are all extremely happy to ‘hear’ you out from the other side.
We wish you safe and well, and thank you for the daily opportunity to engage with our community.
One never would have guessed from the regularity of your blogs. So glad you are recovered. I can’t believe you only took 2 paracetamol…Miraculous. Best wishes.
So happy you have gotten well. Paracetamol is caled Tylenol here in America. Acetaminophen
being its generic name here. I will absolutely take some of that. They have discouraged the use
of Advil (iboprufin) pain medicine as it is an anti inflamatory impeading immune response. We
will continue with our caution and masks.
Another friend of mine muchly credits her cat Tomino for her recovery from another severe illness.
Oh gosh just reading that made me hold my breath for longer than I should.
Poor you GA. If I can only send you a virtual hug it is now.
I’m so glad you have recovered from this truly horrible virus that some think is not true.
I for one know so for the industry I work in I’ve witnessed the effects some mild some not so.
I’m just happy you made it to the other side.
Much love to you <3
Thank goodness that you are safe and well again. Take good care of yourself and thank you so much for your daily posts. I have no idea how you managed these throughout the course of your illness.
Greetings from Ecuador, Gentle Author, where your blog arrives faithfully in my mailbox each morning. I’m so glad you survived and could write so beautifully of your experience. I’m curious to know how you managed to keep the blog going – did you contact colleagues/friends/neighbors and assign days? Did someone take over managing your blog while you were down? In any case, you are amazing and I’m so happy to know I will continue to receive SL each day.
So sad that you caught this dreadful virus. Thank you for such a moving description. Best wishes for
a full recovery soon. Your lovely Spitalfields Life blog is the best read of the day.
So glad to hear you are on the mend. Your daily blog and other activities have given so much pleasure to so many for a long time now, and provide a moving, important record of the times we live in, and the best of people, especially with this latest post. Hope you continue to recover and the blog continues to pop into our inboxes every morning! Look after yourself, be careful with yourself.
Thank you for sharing this experience with us. So sorry you had the virus, but it’s wonderful news that you’ve recovered.
Please take good care; you are a treasure. With best wishes from Chicago.
You have tackled this ruthless enemy with the dignity we have all come to know and love you for. To say we are relieved that you have
recovered is an understatement. Throughout your suffering you kept us entertained. Your ongoing and consistent loyalty to those of us who love your stories is greatly appreciated.
With much love and thanks to you always GA. Take care. X
so grateful you’ve come through this experience whole, and for your having written so clearly about it.
no mention of consultation with a physician — curious about that.
I feel somewhat shame-faced. YOU were going through such a difficult time, and all the while I’ve been chirping away, enjoying your postings, leaving comments. Oh my.
At least now I can lend my words to your many readers, saying — “We’re so glad you have
recovered and are well.”.
Thank you for the optimism you bring to every day.
Stay safe, all.
I wish all the best to you.
You are much loved . Hope you had good people around to help you ? Xx
Oh, my dear friend. I thank God that you are alright. We have lost so much; I am extremely grateful that we did not lose you, too.
Enjoy your garden, and the warmth of the sun and the sounds of life returning to the city, and know that my thoughts and prayers are with you.
So please you have recovered. It was a touching description of the virus.
Oh GA, what a truly awful ordeal but what a wonderful ( if wonderful is the right word to use) description of this nightmare virus. I am so, so glad that you are now on the mend but please take time to look after yourself.
Thank God you are feeling better and have survived the virus. Take care and stay safe.
That is a shocking account of your experience, GA. I’m very glad that you are now through it and hope that there are no significant after-effects. May you enjoy robust health from here on.
I’ve treasured your blog for years and am so glad to read you’re on the mend. Well wishes from across the pond!
So sorry you had this terrible experience – and so glad you survived! Here in Mississippi the world is reopening and we fear a second wave. Try to find an N95 mask to wear whenever you have to go out – my son found one at a store that stocks them for workers spraypainting cars or insulating attics and sent it to me when the pandemic started. Too many people are not wearing masks, risking themselves and others. If they could read your eloquent description of the suffering Covid causes they might change their ways. God bless and stay safe!
I’m so sad that you had to suffer that illness alone and surprised that none of your friends missed you and thought to call to see why you were missing. Very glad to hear that you are not a covid19 statistic. Keep well.
I am very glad you are feeling better as you would be greatly missed.Clearly you have in fact been very ill and should have been in hospital .Look after yourself and take it easy
Best wishes for a full recovery.
Thanks for taking the time to furnish us with details of your experience. Wishing you ongoing recovery as each day passes and the strength to continue with your writing.
So glad to hear that you are better. Thankyou so much for the wonderful blog, it makes my day. Take care of yourself
Jane Vancouver
Oh, oh, oh. GA you fought a war and won.
We are all so grateful you are with us.
Be gentle with yourself.
Warm embraces.
So very many people have been moved by your ordeal.
I am so very pleased that you are recovering, because every morning I and countless other fans eagerly open your blog and thoroughly look forward to read what you have to write about.
Like another reader I was interested in your blind, which looks like it is a map. Is it a map of the East End and where can we buy it from please?
I do hope that your health improves and I send my very best wishes to you.
Thank you for the harrowing account. I’m going to share this. I have friends here in So Cal that are corona virus deniers. I’m glad you recovered. Take it easy and rest well.
I am so glad to hear that you are recovering and hope that many more Spitalfields Life blogs continue to brighten my morning. You paint a very frightening picture of a “mild” case.
Shocked to read that you had the virus but more than relieved that you have seen it off and didn’t have to go to hospital. Like other readers of Spitalfield’s Life I had no idea you were ill.
Enjoy these sunny days with Mr. S that we have been promised. Best wishes for a full recovery.
So pleased to hear you made it through – it would have been too much to wake up and read ” So Long Gentle Author”! No doubt that all those walks contributed to your stamina. Take Care and warmest wishes of health and full recovery to you from all of us.
I wish you and your cat all the best.
Dear GA,
Such a beautifully written account of a frightening and very unpleasant experience with this horrible virus.
Thank you for this insight.
What a desperate and frightening time you’ve had…thank goodness you’ve come through it. (Please do make sure to keep getting enough rest; post-viral fatigue must be accommodated, not fought, or it can settle in for the long haul. Voice of experience here!) Sending warmest good wishes for the continuing return of your health and strength. You are held in such high regard and affection by so many.
Dear Gentle Author, dear friend, I am so glad that you are feeling better now! You stayed at home, when you were feeling so poorly (to say the least)! I think you showed a lot of resilience and courage.
In Santiago de Chile, where I live, we are now starting a phase of complete lockdown, and it isn’t easy, but we know it is certainly necessary at this point.
With all best wishes,
María Eugenia Góngora
Grateful for the work you have done, more grateful that you have been spared what others have not- comfort in knowing that you will appreciate every moment moving forward.
Thank you for sharing your experience of the virus, it’s good for others to have some idea of what to expect. I am very pleased to hear that you have now recovered but hope that you will continue to take things easy for a while.
Wish you joy of your recovery!
O my. Every doctor and literature lover needs to read this magnificent account of the experience of a COVID 19 plague survivor.
Thank you, Gentle Author! May your days and your pen continue to be blessed
Dear Gentle Author-
I’m relieved to hear you are recovering! Thanks to you and to those who were keeping the blog running during your illness. My best wishes to you for a full return to health, and a pat for Schroedinger!
So surprised to hear that you have been so sick ! The daily blog post has continued to arrive in my inbox — amazing! I am relieved to hear that you have recovered and can now build up your strength. Yes, it is amazing how we take our daily lives for granted; the smallest thing like being able to get yourself a cup of tea, or to venture out into the garden to listen to the birdsong.
You have had quite an ordeal. I wish you health and enjoyment from now onward!
Thank you for this account. Beautifully written, as ever. Very happy that you have recovered. We can’t lose you just yet. You still have work to do!
Thanks for sharing your experience. Very encouraging that you have come through it. Stay well.
– thank you for keeping the whole thing going inspite of your illness.
Now part of Spitalfields History …..
I am so grateful for your recovery. I am devoted to your blog.
Thank you.
Whew! A sobering scare. Got past it but take it slow & easy to repair its damage so no secondary issue trips you up! Big hugs…
Goodness, what a frightening experience to go through. Happy to hear you are on the mend. May we all be as grateful for the beauty and kindness around us as you are on your return to health. I’m glad Schrodinger was there with you. Please take care of yourself.
Welcome back to the land of the living! I’m happy for two reasons: for your sake as a good, decent and generous person; for the sake of followers of your superb blog like myself. Live long and prosper!
Dear Gentle Author, so very delighted to hear you are still with us. Thank you for your super-vivid account: your own life-and-death story of returning to life from the shadows. That sense of heightened appreciation is palpable!
I am so sorry that you succumbed to the virus, Gentle Author, but so pleased you are recoverd. You will need to take it easy for some time to come.
Get fully well as soon as possible, very best wishes to you & your cat!
So glad you are now recovering from such a dreadful experience. Your daily blogs are a daily joy and a constant in such a weird time.
I am sorry but glad you are well. I have not had it but my daughter, son in law and 2 year old granddaughter did. All are all right now they were sick back in April.
So lovely to see how many people love you and what you do. and I am one of those
Keep warm and well. xx
Dear GA–
Let me add my voice to the chorus of those who are grateful for your recovery and wishing you well. Thank you for sharing your experience with us–as many have said, if that was a mild case . . .! Please continue to heal day by day, warmly enveloped in the concern of so many who have only met you through your blog.
Today’s blog…wow…
Thank you for everything you do for us humble readers, dear GA….
Stay well now!
Glad to hear you’ve recovered. Stay safe.
I am So Happy You are Getting Better! God Bless You!!?????
So glad you are better. How scary to read of its effects. Makes me renew my promise to be careful.
Just read this… What a time you had… and as several have noted, if yours was a ‘mild’ case, how horrific a severe one must be. Your account really conveys your experience so well, not only the physical sensations, but that dream-like landscape one enters in a fevered state. So happy you are on the mend! Please take very good care. Looking forward, along with many I’m sure, to reading your eloquent and wise words for a very long time to come. XX
..
Such an evocative description of what it was like to have the virus! I’m so glad that you are better. I hope that Schrodinger didn’t suffer too much either.
Best wishes
Allison
Very happy to know you are well now and have beaten the virus, it sounds ghastly. Love your blogs!
It sounds like a horrifying experience. Thank goodness you survived. I hope you have someone who can look in on you while you recover completely. Please wear a mask if you go out-it does provide some protection. I hope you are able to continue your blog as your health improves.
Take good care.
Dear GA, like most, I can’t express how grateful I am for your recovery. The comments posted here are testament to how significant you are to so many. Stay safe
.. 2037 is still a long way off!
Thank you so much for writing of your experience with Covid. I think it was the first time I have fully understood what people are facing. Also, agree, if yours was a mild case, understand how hard those with it have to fight to survive.
Do love your blog and especially the beautiful imagery you post. Take care, and best wishes for a full recovery and immunity!
I’m so glad you are on the mend GA. Being ill and in that strange place for all those days must have made your thoughts of those who didn’t survive, about whom you’ve written so movingly, all the more poignant. Enjoy your garden; it’s a wonderful way of reconnecting with life after illness, a reaffirmation of life as it renews itself with new growth each day.
And thank you for being here every day with all your wonderful stories! Stay well and safe.
I was shocked to read your post and so relieved that you are okay. I believe your post is very important as your wrote about your illness so well, it was riveting. Blessings to to and your wee cat from me and my cat in Canada ??
I wept for you as I have wept for all the Thousands who have died. I am so glad to learn that you survived…. How many of your nine lives have now gone?
Jonathan.
Thank you so much for sharing your awful experience. I personally haven’t heard much about survivors’ experiences and although it sounds scary it is good to know and such a blessing you survived. My dear darling mum wasnt so lucky.
So glad that you are still with us, still drinking in the sunlight and the gifts of the season. Wishing peace and continued recovery of strength and spirit.
Hello Gentle Author from Canada!
Thank you for telling us about how you successfully handled your Covid challenge.
This post and your others are very well written. I am so happy that you have recovered.
I look forward to receiving your posts each morning.
My sisters and I met you in 2011 at the Rondeau family reunion and plaque ceremony
at Christ Church Spitalfields that you wrote about in your post.
Best wishes from Whitby, Ontario.
Rondeau
So sorry to read of your illness, wishing you a full and speedy recovery!
So glad to hear you’ve recovered. Please look after yourself.
Best wishes from Devon
Lesley 🙂
So sorry that you have been ill, but you came through, thank goodness. Take it easy. Best wishes.
Dear Gentle Author
Thank you for telling us about your Covid 19 experiences, it was so helpful. You seem such a kind caring person, please take care and look after yourself now, take time with your recovery.
I so look forward to your posts, as I am sure many of us do.
Thank you for all the pleasure you give.
Dear GA
So gladden of your recovery
Please do take it easy
Sending you a nourishing chicken soup through the ethers from waiheke island New Zealand
Thank you for your Written mediations in timelessness grace
Leonie
A harrowing but beautifully written account of this awful virus..
Wishing you a full recovery and thank you for the daily posts – I always look forward to them and they’re the first thing I read.
Thank you for this honest account of your C19 experience – chilling and compelling! Thank God you have survived to tell the tale that is so compelling and fills us all with fear and dread. Take care to full recovery – like everyone I really look forward to you posts and reconnecting to East London life.
Merci d’être toujours la. Prenez bien soin de vous.
To think that in spite of it all you made sure there was something for us to read here each and every day. Like all who have commented before, I am so glad you are recovering. May you feel a little stronger each morning that you step out into the garden. Stay well.
My best wishes to the GA, may you fully recover from that all.
Love & Peace
ACHIM
Immensely thankful for your recovery, like many many others who have already posted. We all congratulate Dr. Schroedinger on his therapeutic powers. Long life to you both.
I can only thank God you have survived and comiserate as I too have had this virus and, like you, was not sure I would survive and kept trying to do things as I felt it had gone on long enough only to find I just did not have the strength to do them nor the ability to stay awake. It has taken me 8 weeks and I still have some pain in my right lung. I was even sent to A&E last week for a chest x-ray and they found I still had inflamed bronchia. Like you my prayer is that I have an immunity and I have asked for an antibody test as soon as these are rolled out to the public. I had plurisy 11 years ago so suspect weakened lungs from that allowed the virus a better chance of getting in and wreaking havoc.
Take care, stay safe
Very glad you are better!
My very best wishes for a hopefully short time to a full recovery!
What a shocking and worrying ordeal you have been through. So glad you are recovering now, but do continue to take care and take things slowly until you are back to your full strength. Wonderful to hear your joy in the small pleasures of life again. We take so much for granted. Best wishes to you GA.
Philip
So sorry to hear this GA – but great that you are feeling better. That was a vivid and alarming account – thank you for sharing it. Hope you are now properly well. X
Almost a mirror of my own experience. I feel curiously comforted by that – I will not hide from you that I felt a moment of real fear when I realised that it was between me, my immune system and fate.
I am very glad to hear that you survived, and have returned to your enjoyable blog.
Jennifer
Mr Cat was never going to let you go, don’t you worry. Thank you for sharing your ordeal.
I am so glad that you are better. Your account of a relatively mild case should be shared widely — too many people still do not take this virus seriously, at least in the U.S. Please take it easy. And I am very glad that you have a dedicated feline nurse!
Thank Big Mama you’re back and recovering.
Thank you for sharing.
Thank Cat for keeping you company.
Dear GA,
Thank you for that stunning piece of writing.
So thankful that you’ve pulled through.
Made me realise that you are my favourite author.
Best wishes from Dorset.
David
I am so sorry you had to battle this dreadful virus. So many of us live with the fear that we may fall victim to it and it seems that even when one battles what is termed a mild bout, it is beastly. GA, while I have not ever had the pleasure of meeting you or hearing you speak in person, I think of you as a friend who has enriched my life with your lovely stories of the East End and in particular, Spitalfields. I am so thankful you are on the road to recovery. I wish you the best.
Paul, good to know you have recovered from this Virus, your description reads like it really is been told, take care,and look to the future with even more enjoyable benefits to come, Good Luck.
God bless you as you are indeed a gentle soul. Take care and thank you for the comfort and pleasure you have given me with your Blog, simple pleasures
Kind thoughts
Annie
Glad you recovered. Sounds similar to what I had. 8 weeks, and I still haven’t got my strength back.
I am so relieved that my parents are not around to go through this.
Rejoicing on your recovery. Your work is an inspiration, a fascination and a joy arriving everyday in my inbox. I am so glad you had the comfort of Schrodinger through your ordeal. Take it easy and take your time getting back into it all. Very best wishes from Rathlin Island
Dear Gentle Author, it’s such a relief that you made it through, I wish you a speedy and full recovery. Stay alert!
Thanks for writing that and so pleased you have made a full recovery
If I hadn’t known it was present day it almost sounded like medieval times!
The body certainly is a strange vessel
Best wishes
Esther
Bless your heart,very sorry that you went through this terrible time alone.
By sharing your ordeal you have given a better idea of what to expect should we get it.
It makes the danger of this vile illness very real.Causing me to be even more careful.
Wishing you many happy healthy days ahead.Please enjoy the lovely Spring weather.
God bless and keep you.
Dear Gentle Author ~ Sad that you have had to endure Covid19 but happy and relieved that you are recovering. Please take very good care of your inimitable self and be sure to concentrate on good nourishment and adequate rest for the foreseeable future. With love and wishing you ‘good continuation’ from one of your newest subscribers, Colette.
That was a very close call. I’m glad you were able to care for yourself. I always keep some canned soups and convenience foods stocked in case I get sick and don’t have the energy or strength to cook anything.
I also keep a bottle of Tylenol in the cabinet. Plus a few other cold products. I have small travel sizes too.
You are smart to continue to isolate even though you are recovered. I have read of one person that continue to test positive even 40 days after recovery. They had both the antibodies and the active virus.
I am aggressively isolating as this is one thing I do not want, not even a mild case. I have no reason to think mine would be mild as I am over 65 and overweight. Plus I have the dog who needs me to feed her and make sure the water bowl is filled.
I’m sure Schrodinger kept watch and comforted you.
I join hundreds of others to wish you a full and joyful recovery. Your story-telling will be found during the next pandemic and will bring comfort to new generations, then as now. Thank you.
Glad you are on the mend. No doubt that gorgeous kitty was as good a nursemaid as you could ask for too!!
As with so many others, I am delighted to know you’re safe. Please take care.
So glad to know you’ve recovered and have been able to provide such insight. It’s great to have the company of a cat, isn’t it? I bet you spent a lot of time looking at that window-blind map, too. [Or is it printed net?]
Dear GA..We couldn’t do without you. The last time I saw you in March on that splendid course in the Townhouse who could have predicted what was about to befall us? Writers are the gift to the world in troubled times . Modern technology has never been more important in sharing that. I hope you are well on the mend and we shall meet one day again. London seems so far away from here in Dorking in self isolation. But I look forward to coming back to Spitalfields. Look after yourself.
Dear GA,
What a nightmare! Thank goodness you have managed to recover despite being on your own and seemingly not asking for help. I was more shocked to hear how hard you were hit with this awful virus but not entirely surprised as your work involves communicating with people and therefore making social distancing quite tricky. I hope by now you have had a thorough medical check up and have the all clear. You were looking so fit and well at the Jamboree last year – who would have thought?!! Take care x
I was so sorry to hear that you’d been ill but you missed so few of your daily blogs which was amazing. I hope that you re now completely recovered because it can be a lingering illness from what I’ve heard.
Your blogs have been an even better start to the day than usual in these extraordinary times.
Thank you.
So many International plaudits from round the world show the universal affection and esteem for our wonderful GA, who strives through thick and thin to please and entertain all his readers. Thank you, and thank you again, for your tireless work to which we shall always look forward: so sorry to hear you have suffered from the Covid 19 and so relieved that you are recovering. May that recovery be complete. I am sure Schrodinger is grateful too, even if he may not show it.
When I first learned that the Virus was in Charterhouse I was very fearful.. For you..
I am so glad to learn that you have recovered.. From a Near Death Experience..
From my experience recovery will be long and mindful. But easier for you who like myself, live and work alone in our Ivory Tower of solitary work…
So glad to hear that you recovered. Take care and rest.
Thank God you are better! Now you need to take things slowly.
Thank you for sharing the informative article.