The Perfect Storm
I was diagnosed with Long COVID in August 2025.
In October 2025, I underwent an eight-hour surgery for Chiari Malformation — an experience that ultimately improved my quality of life.
However, about a week and a half after returning home, I developed a pulmonary embolism in my right lung — something that could have cost me my life.
Dismissed as a Flare-Up
At first, I dismissed the symptoms, assuming they were part of my ongoing long COVID flare-ups.
I had shortness of breath with the smallest amount of exertion: brushing my teeth, making coffee, getting up out of bed, taking a shower, and anything related to daily living.
Thankfully, my husband urged me to contact my neurosurgeon to report the changes I was experiencing.
I sent a message to the medical team, and they attempted to reach me throughout the day to instruct me to go to the ER immediately.
Unfortunately, I keep my phone on silent — so I had no idea they, or my husband, were trying to reach me.
The Call That Saved My Life
When they couldn’t get in touch with me, the doctor’s office called my husband at work.
Around 4:00 PM, we finally connected.
He told me to go to the ER right away and not wait for him to get home.
By God’s grace, my neighbor and close friend had taken the day off — by chance — and was able to drive me to the hospital much faster than my husband could have made it home.
The Perfect Storm
I never imagined I would experience a pulmonary embolism.
Looking back, I had several risk factors: major surgery, a 5+ hour car ride home afterward, a genetic predisposition — Factor V Leiden, homozygous — and chronic inflammation from other underlying conditions.
It truly was the perfect storm.
I thank God every single day that I am still here.
Life feels different now — more precious.
Each day is a gift, and one I don’t take for granted.
Find the Right Team
I started having shortness of breath in 2022, shortly after my second time getting COVID.
The pulmonologist I was seeing at the time did send me to get different tests — but I felt like each time I’d go for follow-up visits, he didn’t know what to do with me.
Even after I had not seen him in a while and I got this blood clot recently in October 2025, it was suggested that I make an appointment with him shortly after I got released from the hospital.
When I met with him, I felt like he completely blew me off after I shared my new diagnosis with him.
I eventually came to the conclusion that it was time to move on and find a new pulmonary team that was going to find me answers.
I believe I have finally found that team of doctors and we are working closely to find out why I continue to have shortness of breath.
I have five tests upcoming over the next couple of months that will hopefully give us some answers.
The pulmonary embolism has dissolved — but I still have shortness of breath.
How This Changed My Life
Having a pulmonary embolism has completely changed my life.
I wake up every day feeling more grateful for every little moment of each day of my life — interactions with friends, coworkers, family, neighbors, and my pets.
What I’ve Learned
I have learned that I should always be my own advocate.
No one else is going to advocate for you like you can for yourself.
You know your body best — so don’t ever ignore your symptoms or dismiss the way you feel.
Follow your gut and take care of yourself.
You matter!
About My Genetic Testing
I don’t have a clotting disorder, but I do have one of the two Factor V Leiden gene markers for clots.
What I Want Others to Know
Don’t let anyone ever make you feel like your feelings don’t matter.
