Renee Seginowich

Before the vaccine, I was an active, vibrant, full-time working mom. I was physically independent, enjoyed daily exercise, and lived a full life with energy and purpose. I worked part-time at job I loved for 20 years. I had no significant health issues and was managing normal challenges of life like any healthy adult. Now, I am not working because of my injury.

Two days after my first shot, I had shooting pain down my leg. It persisted for 1 month, but I was assured by the hospital that nothing was wrong, and I was cleared to take my second shot. Shortly after my second dose, I developed severe neurological symptoms. It began with burning and tingling sensations in my limbs and quickly progressed to muscle fasciculations, debilitating fatigue, exercise intolerance, brain fog, and widespread nerve pain. My arms burn/feel heavy doing basic tasks like brushing my hair or holding my phone.

Over time, I was diagnosed with small fiber neuropathy, central sensitization, benign fasciculation syndrome. Recent blood tests revealed abnormal immune markers, including low monocyte subsets. 4 years later, I still experience post exertional malaise, lactic acid like muscle burning from minimal activity, and cognitive issues, like brain fog. Still trying to get answers but it's hard to find medical help and acknowledgment in Canada. I was told I might have to go to the USA to get appropriate blood work to diagnose some of my ongoing symptoms. Today, my injury continues to significantly impact my quality of life and family.

Pacing/energy management have been essential to avoiding flare. Gentle bodywork and nervous system regulation (breathwork, mindfulness) help with autonomic symptoms.

-Most conventional doctors dismissed my symptoms or told me it was anxiety.

-SSRIs/pain medications did not improve symptoms and sometimes made things worse.

-Overexertion/attempts to “push through it” often led to severe crashes/symptom flares.

This injury changed my life in ways I never imagined. It is real, devastating, and deserves recognition and support. I urge the medical community and the public to listen to those of us suffering, validate our experiences, and pursue answers. I want others who are injured to know: you are not alone, you are not imagining this, and your life matters.