Coronavirus nearly killed Joe Alvarez of Junior’s Auto Upholstery.
After being diagnosed with Covid-19 in July, he was hospitalized for 32 days, put on a ventilator for two weeks, received 145 doses of antibiotics, and lost nearly 80 pounds.
But surviving was only half the battle. After being released from the hospital and returning home, Joe’s body was too weak to stand. He even developed neuropathy in his muscles and was later setback with sepsis.
It was a wakeup call for the 53-year-old trimmer, who had spent a lifetime working hard to create s successful business and raise a loving family in Conroe, Texas.
“I learned that you can be done in a split second,” he told the Houston Chronicle. “Live life to the fullest. Be with your family all you can. That’s my goal from now on.”
To that end, Joe has been working with a dedicated personal trainer to get back into shape.
It wasn’t easy — and his recovery is still ongoing. But by September 12, Joe was well enough to stand for photos with his daughter on her wedding day.
His next goal is to complete a 5K on Thanksgiving. “I might have to roll through it with a wheelchair, but we’re going to make it through that 5K,” he said.
Joe’s story is a reminder to other trimmers to take coronavirus seriously.
Like many of us, Joe had to keep his shop open through the pandemic. And although he’s not sure where he contracted the virus, it wouldn’t surprise him to learn that he caught it from a contaminated vehicle or customer.
Fortunately, there are many steps that trimmers can take to protect themselves, coworkers and clients from the virus.
To anyone doubting coronavirus’ severity, Joe says: “Have them call me and I’ll tell them how real it is.”
Thankfully, Joe’s story has a happy ending. We wish him and his wife Sarah, who also contracted the virus, many years of happiness, good health and success.
To read the full story, see: “Conroe Man Recovering from Covid-19 has 5K on Thanksgiving.”
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