Experiential stories that revolve around the importance of being authentic to not only yourself but to those around you. After years of never finding the time to ‘stop and smell the roses,’ Jeannette is unearthing many of her passions including writing, fashion, and thrifting through her online blog ‘My Authentic Journey’ (formerly called ‘The Vineyard Life’) – a creative outlet that allows her to share, learn, and grow with others. You can explore more of her stories at @jeannettepdardenne on Instagram or www.myauthenticjourney.com.

By Jeannette Dardenne

I’m sad

I’m angry.

And today it was confirmed that I have COVID.

It’s strange how the test results gave me an initial reminder about the time many years ago when I saw two little pink lines … and felt such joy.

This time, I had real confirmation that I too … just became another statistic.

So many times I have watched the ticker on the news climb to uncomfortable heights. Now I was part of that count – I had tested positive for COVID-19.

I have actually been feeling off for quite a few days. First it was a sniffle, then sneezing, a few coughs here and there. BUT, it was manageable and slightly confusing. Was this JUST my typical winter allergies? Did the runny nose seem more than just a cold?

When I received the diagnosis, more than just additional fatigue set in. An uncomfortable amount of depression followed suit. The best way to explain it is, a complete feeling of isolation.

I have had to quarantine myself in the past because of potential exposure, but this time, I am, I have to, I have COVID.

As a human, I would consider myself quite active. It’s often hard for me to sit down, stop moving, sit and just be. It’s not part of my DNA. I do not rest well.

And that need to REST, seems different from past experiences when I was sick. I believe it may be attributed to this feeling of sadness, disbelief, desolation.

BUT, I recognize how fortunate I am right now.

Instead of sitting in a sterile, noisy, potentially scary space, I am within the warm comforts of home. I can read my books, drink my tea, and wear my comfy clothes. I have options that allow me to comfort myself with relative ease. This IS NOT the case for others with the same diagnosis.

So as I write this, I am going to mentally lift myself up. I am going to put on that smile and remind myself how lucky I am. I will take this experience as a reminder on how precious life really is.

Stay safe everyone, both mentally and physically.

Jeannette Punsoni Dardenne is an entrepreneur who started the popular Facebook group @eatinconnecticut – a community forum that connects foodies and the food and beverage industry for delicious conversations. She and her business partner now together run @eatinconnecticut and INGroup Creative – a public relations and marketing company that helps small businesses thrive. Jeannette is also a business advisor at the University of Hartford Entrepreneur Center & Women’s Business Center. When she isn’t helping others, she enjoys exploring the state and beyond with her husband and two children.

Like what you see here? Click here to subscribe to We-Ha’s newsletter so you’ll always be in the know about what’s happening in West Hartford! Click the blue button below to become a supporter of We-Ha.com and our efforts to continue producing quality journalism.