Kate Kennedy

Kate Kennedy, 44, Post Viral Fatigue Syndrome 

How would you explain Post Viral Fatigue Syndrome to a child?

You know how when you get a good night's sleep, you can feel rested and ready for a good day at school or camp? Well, when you have this disease, many times you feel exhausted, confused, achy, dizzy, and out of breath, even after many solid hours of sleep! 

If you are too active; like playing too many sports, taking on big adventures, or doing too much work, you may need to lay down and rest for several days afterwards! 

What would you want the world to know about Post Viral Fatigue Syndrome?

Some people’s body’s get sick and their immune system (our good fighters in the body) get confused and can’t fight the sickness well. 

So the symptoms they felt when they first got really sick, don’t go away like other people’s do.  Many symptoms come back over and over again like the bumps and drops of a roller coaster! They are like a song you can’t get out of your head, only you can’t get the symptoms out of your body from that stinky virus! 

What does it feel like to live with Post Viral Fatigue Syndrome?

This disease is invisible and sneaky! You can start to feel better and then poof, the yucky symptoms pop up again. Sometimes it’s so uncomfortable you need more medicines, lots of rest, and special movement aids or people to help you walk.

What brings you joy?

Keeping my body as healthy as I can with fresh organic foods and doing yoga, and meditation. Playing in the yard my daughter, our dog, and of course FAMILY GAME NIGHT!!