Coming up for Air

By:  Maura L. Johnson

     That old familiar feeling was there the moment I awoke: the sinus pressure, scratchy throat and overall “blah-ness”.  Having smugly thought I escaped the latest round of illness to hit our house, I clung to the hope (delusion?) that this was simply a case of feeling run down.  Having been sick twice so far since Christmas, it didn’t seem possible I could be coming down with something again.  My daughter had just come through a virus that sidelined her during a family baby shower, followed by my husband receiving a strep throat diagnosis.  Looking back, it likely wasn’t possible for me to come out of this unscathed.  However, it’s been said the one thing stronger than fear is hope, which I seemed to have in spades.  

     If, like me, you’ve found yourself thinking “no way is this happening again” this season, you’re definitely not alone.  According to the CDC, as of March 2026, there have been an estimated 27 million cases of flu, 350,000+ hospitalizations and around 22,000 deaths.  This says nothing of the myriad other infections and illnesses floating around daycares, schools and workplaces every day.  While common sense infection control (hand washing, avoiding public places when ill, etc.) goes a long way, many of us found ourselves knocked over by repeated waves of sickness this season.  

     I’ve noticed many clients using the term “drowning” when they describe trying to navigate life with repeated illness.  Whether it be theirs and/or their child(ren), the disruption to daily routines is very real and can be extremely difficult.  Childcare changes, missing out on planned activities and, at worst, repeated doctor’s visits or hospitalization are often incredibly stressful.  As moms, we may also find it especially difficult to take the time we need to recover, especially as we care for the rest of the family.  Asking for help can seem like admitting defeat when in reality, it is an essential part of avoiding burnout (or“drowning”).  Protecting and prioritizing sleep, hydration, nutrition and setting boundaries on your time are just some ways to help safeguard your health during peak illness seasons.

     So as we make our way into April, hopefully leaving the absolute chaos of March weather behind (that mid-month snowstorm was especially exciting), we find ourselves on the other side of peak illness season.  With the longer, warmer days and ability to be outdoors, a sense of hope returns.  Making it through this winter season was difficult for many of us, however, brighter days are ahead.  Wishing everyone a happy and healthy Spring!