There is life after pandemic
The Eagle published a heartwarming story Easter weekend about a Middlesex Township firefighter who spent 13 days on a ventilator while fighting the COVID-19 virus.
We are happy to report that Greg Vickinovac is recovering nicely.
Many haven't been as fortunate.
As of Tuesday, 30.5 million people have contracted the disease in the United States. Nearly 555,000 of them have died. Just under 10,000 cases have been diagnosed in Butler County.
The good news is that 167 million Americans have been vaccinated, according to the latest figures from the Centers for Disease Control.
In the two weeks Vickinovac, 41, was on a ventilator, his wife, Nicole, said there were times when she wasn't sure she ever would bring him home. Seeing everyday items— such as cheese in the fridge that she bought for him — was enough to bring her to tears.
Nicole and two of the couple's four children also were hit by the virus.
Greg said a major reason why he beat the virus was because “I'm stubborn.”And while support from the community and friends has been overwhelming, Greg still has a long recovery ahead and doesn't know when he'll be able to return to work.The family faces mounting medical bills, loss of wages and other financial setbacks as they struggle to get back on their feet.We need to remain cautious regarding COVID-19.Although more seniors are getting vaccinated, UPMC Passavant ICU medical director Dr. David Rice said the average age of a COVID-19 patient being hospitalized has recently trended younger.If you have the opportunity to get a vaccination, please do so.Although the daily updates on deaths because of the pandemic can be discouraging, Vickinovac's story shows us all that there is life after COVID-19.We assume there are many other positive stories resulting from the worldwide pandemic. Some are right here in Butler County.If you have a story to tell, let us know. We would love to share it with our readers.Send your information to news@butlereagle.com or message us on the Butler Eagle Facebook pageAnd please wear a mask.<i>— JGG</i>
