Negative is Positive

Summary

Dennett shares the latest developments in their ongoing dialysis journey, including a Covid scare and the challenges of home quarantine.

Abstract

In "Negative is Positive," Dennett recounts the 38th chapter of their dialysis story, where Benito tests positive for Covid, likely contracted from the dialysis center. Despite Dennett's negative test result, they experience symptoms such as swollen glands and a sore throat, leading to a subsequent negative Covid/Flu test. The narrative touches on the discomfort of sleeping in a mask, the precautions taken at the dialysis center, and the hope of overcoming the current challenges by the week's end. Dennett expresses a complex emotional landscape, from the relief of a negative test result to the ironic wish for a positive one to simplify the situation, and the ongoing vigilance required to protect themselves and Benito.

Opinions

Dennett believes Benito contracted Covid at the dialysis center, indicating a concern about the safety of the facility.
Wearing a mask at all times, including while sleeping, is described as extremely uncomfortable, likened to sleeping facedown in a sandbox.
There is a sense of resignation and routine in dealing with the medical challenges, as Dennett prepares for another test if symptoms persist.
The author expresses a paradoxical sentiment, almost wishing for a positive Covid result to alleviate the burden of mask-wearing at home.
Despite the difficulties, there is an underlying optimism that if they can endure this week, they will be able to manage the situation.

Our dialysis story — chapter 38

Another day, another test.

Saturday, Benito tested positive for Covid while my test was negative. I believe he contracted the virus at the dialysis center.

Since he tested positive, I’ve been wearing a mask at all times in our home, even when I sleep.

As I prepared for bed last night, I noticed swollen glands in my neck. I woke up with a sore and hoarse throat, so I scheduled a Covid/Flu test for this morning.

I tested negative for Covid and both Flu strains.

Not sure why I have swollen glands or a sore and hoarse throat, so I’ll return for another test on Wednesday if my symptoms don’t subside.

If it weren’t for work, I’d almost be relieved to have Covid, so I don’t have to keep wearing a mask while I’m home, in addition to all the other places I always wear a mask.

Sleeping in a mask is like sleeping facedown in a sandbox.

Ben is still very congested, but his face looks brighter and less tired. I called the dialysis center early this morning, and as expected, he’ll have dialysis in the isolation room.

If we can get through this week, we should be okay.

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