Meningitis in your words

Christopher Sellers's story

Categories: Bacterial meningitis
Age: Baby 0-1
Relationship: Self
Outcome: Recovery with after effects
After effects: Learning difficulties

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Meningitis in your words
Christopher Sellers

In 1968, at six weeks old, I contracted bacterial meningitis in Columbus, Georgia.

I was so hot to touch that my mother had to wrap me in multiple towels just to carry me to the hospital! I was immediately tested and placed in an isolation chamber where I stayed for more than a week. My mother has long told the story that I had so many shots, I looked like a little pin cushion.

"I was not expected to even survive, especially at SIX weeks old, yet here I am 47 years later!"

There were many challenges as the medical team struggled to care for me. I was not expected to survive, especially at SIX weeks old, yet here I am 47 years later!

Miraculously, overall motor skills and childhood development was normal, except for a few things such as - I stuttered REALLY badly and I always had a hard time doing homework as a young boy. But I could sing fine, and most boys also struggle with wanting to do homework. Taking tests has always been a challenge for me.

Although my memory is pretty good (somehow), I have always struggled with tests. I failed the test to become a programmer four times and had to pass it twice! But I never gave up! I started wearing glasses in the fifth grade but I always thought that was genetic. And now that I'm getting older I am beginning to feel more joint pain than before, but I don't know if that is due to Meningitis or just getting older.

Today I am married with two wonderful 'normal' boys. I have a professional career spanning more than 25 years with TSYS, a leading technology processing company; and, recently graduated with a Master’s degree in Computer Science. I am a professional IT computer programmer and IT trainer and I am also an Adjunct Professor for a University! I have also delivered many speeches as member of Toastmasters International. I’m also an author of a book series and a fairly good cook.

Overall, when I look back at what I've accomplished, I do not think it would have been possible without my mom always telling me "Chris, you can do whatever you set in your mind to do. Nothing is impossible!” She watched a real miracle grow in front of her; literally from six weeks old to today! My story - is a story of overcoming - a story of a miracle - Me... Chris.

Christopher Sellers
September 2015