Posted on February 5, 2021
GVSU mail carrier returns to post after rehabilitation aids recovery from COVID-19
When Kevin Howell contracted COVID-19, “I could hear him breathing from across the house,” his wife, Samantha, said.
The virus hit the 57-year-old Grand Valley State University mail carrier in mid-July. He was plagued by a persistent cough and fatigue, then noticed swelling in his ankle and calf. He went to the emergency room where doctors discovered Kevin had developed blood clots in his leg and lung. He was hospitalized four days for treatment before returning home to continue his recovery.
But Kevin didn’t feel better, battling fatigue, sleeplessness and anxiety.
“You just don’t feel right,” he said.
In August, the Howells heard about Mary Free Bed’s outpatient ReCOVery ℠ Program. Specifically designed to help people recovering at home from the virus, rehabilitation is provided by a designated team, including physicians and therapists.
Kevin began meeting twice a week with a physical therapist specially trained to help patients regain strength, balance and endurance. After months of therapy, he graduated in November and recently returned to work at GVSU.
In this video, Kevin shares his story and how rehabilitation provided the tools needed to return to his life.
