Coronavirus (COVID-19) is something everyone has heard about these past seven months. It has been the downfall of 2020, but unfortunately, it doesn't have an expiration date. One thing I know for sure is that it's just as big of a deal as some people are making it out to be.

My experience with having COVID was very memorable. I was struggling with fatigue the entire time that I was in isolation. I can't think of a time I have been more tired than that week of being really sick. Other than fatigue, I struggled with pneumonia — I was diagnosed with pneumonia on my fourth day of isolation. So, not only having COVID-19 but having pneumonia was very concerning to me. I'm a healthy 19-year-old girl, but I have preexisting heart and kidney conditions that I thought would make this harder on me.

I'm not going to lie, I thought I was going to die when I first found out my test was positive.

I was scared for my life, but I worked through it. Other than pneumonia and fatigue, I had lost my taste and smell for three days and didn't have any appetite. I didn't eat anything because it made my stomach hurt. It was hard trying to stay physically strong while not wanting to eat or stay hydrated.

I really don't know how older people have overcome this virus, I felt terrible for eight days and was sincerely concerned for my life — and I'm only 19. COVID-19 is serious, and everyone should take it seriously.

I wouldn't wish this virus on anyone else, and I pray that everyone who has been affected by this virus continues to live their lives in love and peace. I also want to take a moment and pray for the families of those 200,000+ people who have died from COVID. You're in my prayers.

The main thing I want everyone to know? Wear a mask and wash your hands.