Arijit Sen

A story of recovery and optimism by Arijit Sen, Creative/Content Strategy Lead, MACS (Marketing and Creative Services), Capgemini India

“Pessimism never won any battle.”  

– Dwight D. Eisenhower

My Story:

In these trying times, it’s important that we stay positive and not get sucked into the vortex of negativity around us. I contracted the virus in early April, at a time when we didn’t know how severe the second wave would be.

My early assumption was that I’d heal easily since I don’t smoke – I walk regularly and maintain a moderately healthy lifestyle. However, the virus doesn’t really discriminate. My condition got worse, and I was advised to seek admission to a hospital immediately.

The scarcity of beds was just about to hit media headlines – and I managed to get admitted to a super speciality hospital based on a recommendation from a known doctor. After 14 gruelling days in the ITU, I was finally shifted to a cabin and taken off oxygen. The two weeks in the ITU were a blur and I needed to stay positive since the atmosphere was very morbid. What kept me going? – staying positive. It’s very easy to give up and have negative thoughts based on what’s happening in such proximity, but the key is to believe things are going to get better and healthy life awaits outside those doors.

Eventually, coming home seemed like a huge win. Even in my weak state (13 kgs lighter), I felt my homecoming was the most effective healing technique. Since then, with the support of my amazing team at MACS and my family – I have taken baby steps to heal. There’s a long road ahead, but it’s heartening to know that I have a strong support system to guide and help me through it.

Experiences like this make you value the little things -the comfort of your bed, the taste of (solid) home-cooked food, the warmth of a familiar hug or even the ability to walk away and drown out the noise. And all of this makes you realize how blessed we truly are: for the strength, courage and love from family, friends and colleagues.

This virus is unpredictable, unforgiving and cruel. Appreciate and nurture the little things. They’re far bigger than we realize. Let’s stay home, stay safe and pledge to help everyone breathe easy.