By Dr. Barbara Reilly

TLG Sr. Consultant

It started with body aches and a fever.  Then came the inability to move or breathe.  I knew it was Covid before I received my positive PCR results.   And it hit hard.

With great medical care, a handy pulse oximeter (to measure blood oxygen levels), the right medications, and lots of rest, I recovered.    I lost out on a birthday, an anniversary, and Thanksgiving.   I received support, flowers, chicken soup, a tiny Christmas tree, and so many texts I considered a setting up a Caring Bridge account.  I am one of the lucky ones.  I feel better.  My lungs are clear.  I still have no taste or smell, but I am thrilled to be feeling almost normal.

And now, I can help others.  My blood is loaded with antibodies and in a few short few weeks my plasma will make its way to those who need those antibodies.  I have been a lifelong blood and platelet donor with the American Red Cross and they are researching an antibody treatment.

Here is their ask:  Are you fully recovered from a verified COVID-19 diagnosis?  If so, the plasma in your blood may contain COVID-19 antibodies that can attack the virus. This convalescent plasma is being evaluated as a possible treatment for currently ill COVID-19 patients, so your donation could help save the lives of patients battling this disease!

Here’s the link if you want to know more:  Plasma

Dr. Barbara Reilly   BReilly@turknett.com   770-270-1723