This is my 12-year-old daughter, Mia. Recently, vaccines became available for her age group, and I thought I had time to prioritize it. To be honest, I was also scared. With life feeling somewhat normal again, I believed I could afford to wait.
I sent her to a youth camp, and she returned home on July 1st with a stuffy nose. Initially, I dismissed it as allergy-related due to the campground. However, when her symptoms persisted on July 5th, I decided it was best to consult a doctor just to rule out a sinus infection before I went back to work. During that visit, they performed a PCR COVID test, and while waiting for the results, I learned that the camp had recently canceled future sessions due to a COVID outbreak. My heart sank. Just 45 minutes later, I found out Mia tested positive for COVID.
Her symptoms were mostly mild at first, with a lack of appetite, nasal congestion, and fatigue. However, on July 9th, she developed a high fever of 104.6°F, which led us to urgent care. She was extremely unwell, vomiting, and nearly fainting multiple times. The diagnosis was pneumonia in her lower left lung, along with reactive airway disease. We were prescribed antibiotics, an albuterol inhaler, and steroids. I believed her rapid decline was due to bacterial pneumonia stemming from her COVID infection.
Her fever fluctuated between 100-101°F over the next few days. Although she still had a poor appetite and was fatigued, I tried to remain patient, knowing pneumonia can be tough on the body, especially alongside COVID. On July 14th, Mia approached me at the kitchen island, panting and hunched over. She wanted breakfast but could barely breathe. In a moment of panic mixed with frustration, I told her not to be dramatic or I would call an ambulance. Four hours later, I realized how wrong I was.
After a small bite of pancake, we returned to her bed, and I encouraged her to use her inhaler more frequently. She still had a fever, and something felt off. I checked the discharge instructions from July 5th, which mentioned she should be fever-free within 3-4 days of starting antibiotics. We quickly went back to urgent care.
I knew she was in bad shape, but I was unprepared for what I would discover when we checked in. Because I mentioned she had COVID, they initially wanted us to wait in the car, but first, they took her pulse ox reading. Her heart rate was 135 bpm, and her oxygen levels were at 82%. That prompted immediate action: nurses and a physician came rushing in, and Mia received oxygen as EMS was called. I lost it; I cried uncontrollably. She was so brave, and I felt utterly helpless and foolish.
Mia had to ride in the ambulance alone while I drove frantically, tears streaming down my face. When I arrived at the ER, she was already being cared for by two nurses and a doctor. The ER physician made it clear: had Mia been vaccinated, she wouldn’t be struggling to breathe with oxygen support. Her rapid heartbeat and respirations were alarming. I felt the exhaustion and frustration of the healthcare workers around me; suddenly, I understood their emotions.
All my earlier concerns about vaccination were overshadowed by worries about potential complications like a pulmonary embolism. I texted my mom, pleading for prayers, not wanting to disclose just how serious the situation was. Moments later, I learned that they were considering transferring Mia to Omaha, Nebraska, for further treatment.
Fortunately, we received good news when her blood work showed no signs of a clot, and we were able to secure the last PICU room in Springfield. This was a blessing.
I’ve become painfully aware of the realities of COVID. For those who still think the pandemic is over, here are some things to consider from our experience in the PICU:
- In isolation, no visitors or staff will be present. You’ll need to manage your child’s IVs and monitors yourself.
- Nurses wear full PPE every time they enter your room. Be prepared with a list of necessities for when they come in.
- Your child may experience anxiety due to the hospital environment, especially hearing alarms.
- You’ll need to assist with bathing and toileting, as these tasks can be exhausting for them.
- Bring your own bedding and comfort items, as the nurses’ focus is on the patients.
- An eye mask can help block out the constant lights in the room while you try to rest.
- Emotional isolation is real; you may feel overwhelmed but also crave connection.
- Your child may feel bored and frustrated, requiring your patience and support.
- All trash and linens will be handled in a way that maintains isolation.
Mia is a loving child who adores her family. She doesn’t yet have the freedom to vote or belong to a political party; she just wants to enjoy being a kid. On July 14th, none of that mattered. What mattered was that I didn’t vaccinate her, leaving her vulnerable to a serious case of COVID.
My family lives in a region where COVID statistics are alarming. The epidemic isn’t over; it might be just beginning. I worry for the fall semester and the social gatherings that remain unmasked.
Through the prayers and support we received, we were fortunate. I am incredibly grateful for the miraculous recovery of my daughter. I believe that without divine intervention, Mia would still be critically ill, far from home and our support network.
Now, Mia is home but still in isolation for a few more days. That means she’s been cut off from friends and the outside world for 20 days, which is a long time for a 12-year-old. Please, consider masking, vaccinating, and practicing social distancing. Regardless of your beliefs, we are all in this fight against COVID together. Mia appreciates you taking the time to read her story. She is a kind-hearted person who would help anyone if she could.
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In summary, my experience with my daughter’s COVID battle has taught me the importance of vaccination. The pandemic is ongoing, and we must do all we can to protect our loved ones.
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