When I launched Mighty Littles, sharing a story about my child’s hospitalization was never part of my plan. I aimed to focus on the strength I witnessed in NICU parents, the evolution of parenting, and how significant events shape us as caregivers. However, the COVID-19 pandemic has dramatically impacted my family, and it demands to be addressed. My thoughts and fears have revolved around this virus for the past week, and I know I’m not alone in this struggle.
As a healthcare professional, I meticulously tracked the COVID-19 outbreak in regions like China and Italy. Even before any official mandates, we made the decision to withdraw our kids from Jiujitsu and swimming lessons, recognizing the potential danger of the virus long before it became a widespread concern. The children continued attending preschool and kindergarten until March 12th, their last day before the state of Colorado shut down schools on March 16th. Since that day, my kids have remained indoors. My husband ventured to Costco once, and I made a single trip to Target. Playdates were off-limits, and I wouldn’t allow them to interact with friends across the street. We embraced the stay-at-home recommendations early on and adhered to them. We did everything right.
However, Lincoln fell ill. On March 21st, he sneezed a few times, which I attributed to allergies. The next day, he developed a stuffy nose and slight cough. Without a fever, my worries were minimal, assuming it was just a common cold. Then, on March 27th, he spiked a high fever of 104.5 degrees, and I began to feel anxious.
On March 28th, we saw the pediatrician first thing in the morning and received a diagnosis of pneumonia following a viral infection, which seemed reasonable. We were prescribed oral antibiotics and used oxygen at home for the following 48 hours. There were moments when he appeared fine, but overall, I believed he was managing. By Monday, March 30th, he required more oxygen support and was admitted to the hospital.
Entering the hospital, I braced myself for a stay of a few days—three or four, I thought. I understood he would be placed under a “COVID rule out” protocol, meaning he would be treated as if infected until the test results came back negative. Being familiar with hospital policies, I knew I couldn’t leave his room until we received confirmation of his status. So, I walked into the hospital carrying one sick 4-year-old, two nearly-empty oxygen tanks, and three bags—one for clothing, another for comfort items and snacks, and my computer bag. Anxiety about my son’s rapidly declining condition consumed my thoughts.
The admission process was seamless, and we settled into our room with the help of the amazing staff. Initially, he required 2 liters of oxygen, but that night it escalated to 4 liters. By the following day, he was on 6 liters, then 9 liters. He was working hard to breathe, engaging all the muscles in his chest, abdomen, and neck. As a doctor, I recognized the signs of respiratory distress—seesaw breathing, nasal flaring, grunting, retracting, and tachypnea—he exhibited them all.
As a mother, witnessing his struggle was excruciating.
During our first two days at the hospital, test results began to arrive. His Complete Blood Count (CBC) did not indicate classic COVID infection signs. Other infection markers—CRP and Procalcitonin—were not significantly elevated. His chest X-ray appeared relatively normal. He was switched to two IV antibiotics—Ampicillin and Azithromycin—and began receiving Albuterol treatments while we awaited viral testing. Throughout these two days, however, he continued to decline. Despite his lab results and X-ray not aligning with COVID symptoms, his condition worsened swiftly.
Around 7 PM on our second night, the doctor entered to discuss Lincoln’s case. After examining him, she delivered the news: Lincoln had tested positive for COVID-19. I broke down in tears. His rapid decline didn’t make sense; the results didn’t fit our expectations. How did this happen? Why us?
I felt I had failed to protect my family. Yes, I knew I hadn’t, but those thoughts are hard to suppress when your little boy is battling a terrifying virus.
We were confined to his room, and all staff members entered wearing full PPE. My husband remained at home with our daughters, and we couldn’t embrace one another. The family was split, and the distance felt overwhelming.
Despite this isolation, our community rallied around us. Both our employers showed incredible support, and our school community organized a meal train to provide dinner for my husband and daughters nightly—a true lifesaver since they couldn’t leave home. Neighbors dropped off fresh berries and sent care packages to me filled with shower wipes and dry shampoo. Did I mention I couldn’t shower?
I always recognized how he felt by looking into his eyes.
After five days in the hospital, Lincoln began to show signs of improvement. He briefly displayed moments of his cheerful self and, for the first time, ate something—a banana and a pouch of applesauce. This was a stark contrast to his usual chocolate cravings.
We gradually reduced his oxygen support to 4 liters, although he still had a severe cough that left him gasping for air. As he expressed, “Mama, this isn’t worth it,” I felt his frustration deeply.
Being in the hospital has felt isolating. I couldn’t step outside his room, nor could anyone visit. The healthcare workers minimized their visits to conserve gear, adding to the loneliness.
Despite everything, the overwhelming support from our community has been humbling. People we barely knew and even strangers reached out to offer help. We are eternally grateful, and thankfully, no one blamed us for Lincoln’s diagnosis. I hope this sense of unity continues long after COVID-19 recedes.
Please stay safe, stay healthy, and take this virus seriously—it’s no joke. Check in on your friends and neighbors who may be struggling during these challenging times. For more insights, consider reading this related blog post.
Update: After a week of hospitalization, Lincoln was discharged to continue recovery at home, requiring oxygen for the next two to four weeks.
Summary:
In this heartfelt account, Rachel shares her family’s harrowing experience as her 4-year-old son, Lincoln, was hospitalized due to COVID-19 despite following all safety protocols. Initially believing he had a mere cold, his condition rapidly deteriorated, leading to a positive COVID-19 diagnosis. The story highlights the emotional toll of isolation and fear, while also showcasing the incredible support from the community during this challenging time.