Life Care Center of Elkhorn resident shares her COVID-19 story

Jackie Greene, a 63-year-old resident at Life Care Center of Elkhorn in Omaha, Nebraska, was one of 72 residents diagnosed with COVID-19 at the facility from May to June.

There are multiple signs and symptoms of COVID-19, but each case varies. Jackie noticed something was off when she felt extremely fatigued and had a sore throat, as well as other flu-like symptoms. She was then admitted to the hospital and spent one week there. Following her discharge from the hospital, Jackie was placed on the facility’s COVID unit to be monitored for another two weeks. Altogether, she spent a total of three weeks recovering from the virus. While recovering, Jackie felt the stress and worry that accompanies the virus.

“After a while, I felt trapped and worried about my friends and everyone as to how they were doing,” said Jackie.

Residents living in skilled nursing facilities during the pandemic have felt the isolation that follows the virus. At one time or another, we have all worried about our loved ones this year, especially those who live in skilled nursing facilities, where remaining quarantined is key in order to stop the spread of the virus.

“I felt edgy and worried about people around me and how they were,” said Jackie. “I had a friend die during the shutdown, and it was hard because I felt like I couldn't cope and talk to others about her.”

Through the difficulties of having COVID, Jackie believes that the power of private prayer helped her through the process. She feels more aware of herself now and considers herself lucky to be alive.

Jackie impels everyone to, “Wear your mask! It’s just like wearing your seatbelt; it saves lives. Just wear your mask.”

Jackie has fully recovered from COVID-19 and spends her time resting and coloring with colored pencils and pens. We are grateful for Jackie and her success story. Every day during this pandemic is a journey. It has brought heartache and affliction, but we also recognize the victories that have taken place in the past nine months. We are looking forward to the day where we can embrace our loved ones in skilled nursing facilities once again, without fear of COVID-19 harming them.