In 2020, Shelley contracted COVID-19 while working as a nurse in St.Louis. Unfortunately, she did not recover quickly, her symptoms worsened & developed new onset of cardiac symptoms, that was then complicated with a pulmonary embolism. For months she continued to have daily cardiac symptoms & extreme fatigue, she was then diagnosed with post covid syndrome (daily symptoms of chronic fatigue, chronic chest pain & palpitations). She learned to live her normal life while dealing with symptoms daily while under the care of cardiology and her primary care in St. Louis. While she was in Mattoon in between travel nursing assignments in January 2025, Shelley became ill with fevers and other flu like symptoms that were not resolving. She presented to ER, and was diagnosed with disseminated histoplasmosis. She was immediately started on first line anti-fungal treatment, which quickly exacerbated her long COVID syndrome & cardiac symptoms. She was referred to Barnes Jewish infectious disease for further management of histoplasmosis treatment. Her medication was then changed from first line treatment due to her pre-existing cardiac history. Because she is unable to take first line treatment, getting rid of Histoplasmosis is going to be a much more lengthy process. While she is on the treatment, they suspect her to continue to have side effects of the medication & symptoms from Histoplasmosis. She will need treatment for at least another year, with close follow up with Infectious Disease and cardiology in St. Louis. Shelley was recently admitted at Barnes Jewish Hospital due to low heart rate, shortness of breath, & weakness/fatigue. She has been diagnosed with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction and left ventricle hypertrophy. Unfortunately, they do suspect the Covid syndrome & cardiac diagnosis is something that Shelley will deal lifelong. She has been advised to not work full time or as a floor nurse, they are hopeful that once the histoplasmosis is treated, that the majority of her symptoms caused from it & anti fungal will resolve. Since she is unable to work due to her condition, she is having difficulty making ends meet to cover travel and other expenses associated with her treatment. Shelley is an amazing person and is always willing to help others. She has been through the wringer these last few years. Do not feel obligated, but if you can help out at all it will be greatly appreciated!