Imagine being in the best shape of your life and thinking you were less likely to get a deadly virus only to get it and suddenly be fighting for your life? That’s exactly what happened to fitness expert Tamika Harden during her battle with COVID-19. Thankfully, Harden would be among those who survived her encounter with the virus. Here’s her story.
1. When you discovered you had the virus, were you shocked given the initial reports of who was likely vulnerable and who wasn’t?
Yes, I was! Many of us, were led to believe that the coronavirus affected only older people, and people with pre-existing medical conditions. However, we quickly learned that this virus doesn’t discriminate and that people of all ages should take steps to protect themselves.
2. What were some challenges you faced early on after learning you had COVID-19?
I experienced challenges both before and after, knowing I had the virus. When I first felt symptoms, I assumed it was the flu. As my symptoms progressed, I began my quest to get tested. Due to a lack of testing sites and medical equipment in my area, I was denied twice for testing. I was successful after the 3rd attempt, which was about 10 days after the onset of symptoms. One can only imagine what could have happened during those 10 days if my body wasn’t fit to fight COVID-19. After learning I tested positive, the challenge was to protect my 2 children and nanny. I had to monitor my family daily for symptoms, all while trying to stay six-feet apart from each other while in the home, as instructed by the CDC. Keeping my family safe was a challenge but by God’s grace, we are all well now. Quarantining for 14 days after testing positive was also a challenge. I couldn’t leave my home even for essential items.
3. As more reports come out about people having different symptoms, what were some of your own?
I felt as if a truck had hit me. I couldn’t get out of bed, I had no appetite, I couldn’t smell nor taste, and I experienced a heavy and rapidly recurring cough. The cough was so frequent and powerful, that it felt as if my chest was vibrating when I coughed, a very uncomfortable feeling.
4. What was the first thing you did to begin fighting the infection?
I used over-the-counter medication to help reduce fever and cough. I stayed hydrated, increased my vitamin consumption, and juiced fruits and vegetables when I felt well enough. I rested as much as I needed to. As soon as my body felt well enough I resumed all lifestyle practices that have kept me healthy for the past 15+ years. I resumed light physical movement the moment my body felt well enough. My physical health helped my body fight COVID-19, and now more than ever is the time to practice a healthy lifestyle and to help others with the process.
5. Were anyone close to you also affected by the virus? If so, how? Any fatalities?
No fatalities that were directly related to me but yes there were fatalities from extended friends and acquaintances.
6. How did you cope worrying about your recovery as well as loved ones and being isolated (assuming you were)?
Immediately all I could do was thank God that I was surviving COVID-19. When I received my test results I had already been sick for 10 days. I was grateful I didn’t need to be hospitalized or worse. My body was giving COVID-19 an aggressive fight and I won. I felt gratitude that COVID-19 didn’t take my life like it took many others. Quarantining was tough but I kept my spirits high and used virtual tools such as Zoom and FaceTime to stay connected with family and friends. I immediately shifted my business to virtual platforms; providing online fitness services to clients. The doors of my business were forced to close due to COVID-19. I had to think quickly. I knew my clients and community would need my help and support now more than ever.
7. Do you still have some residual effects of the virus? If so, what are they?
No, I don’t have residual effects of the virus.
8. What has surviving COVID-19 taught you and what do you want others to know should they become infected or those still struggling?
I felt as if a truck had hit me. I couldn’t get out of bed, I had no appetite, I couldn’t smell nor taste, and I experienced a heavy and rapidly recurring. Mentally, I had to remain strong. This pandemic has not only impacted my family, but it has also impacted my finances and my business. Even on my hardest days, I knew I had to wipe my tears and fight. I also had something to fight for, My life and my children’s lives were spared. We were safe and for this, I was extremely grateful. Financial gains can come and go, but you only get one life. Spiritually I’ve gained more gratitude and a deeper understanding of my purpose. I feel as if I’ve survived COVID-19 because I am here to help people. My purpose is to help people, and now more than ever I want to do everything in my power to fulfill my purpose. My advice to others is if one becomes infected with the virus or feels symptoms I recommend seeking testing and medical help immediately. Following precautionary measures and staying proactive is also essential. It’s important to focus more on the things we can control and less on the things we can’t. We can choose to take action and begin to live a healthier lifestyle. You never know how strong you are until strong is the only choice you have.
Tamika Harden is a Lifestyle Coach and Personal Trainer and Owner of Get Sculpted Med Spa. You may follow and engage with her on her Instagram account @bodybytamika.
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