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Mack: My Experience with COVID-19

Mack sits in a high top chair with a face mask on while discussing his experience to a group of parking employees watching from around the breakroom.

Mack spent about an hour with the Bull Runner team during their daily meeting to discuss his experience with COVID-19.

As we approach a full year of Ƶtransitioning to remote learning due to COVID-19, we have become accustomed to the “new normal,” which includes wearing a face covering, practicing physical distancing, and being more mindful of washing your hands regularly.

Richard Mack (“Mack”), with PATS, spent time with the Bull Runner team to remind them why it’s important to not get complacent. Mack tested positive for COVID-19 in November. He had to go to the hospital 3 times due to complications from the virus. With no underlying conditions, the virus was never something that concerned Mack much, however, after contracting the virus he experienced many of the more severe symptoms health experts warn of. Worst of which, according to him, was the difficulty breathing due to lack of oxygen. It’s only recently he got his sense of taste and smell back.

Marie Bowen, Assistant Director of PATS, arranged for Mack to come and discuss the experience with her employees in Bull Runner to reinforce how important it is we still follow the health behaviors outlined by the CDC. As she puts it, “You don’t know what COVID looks like until it’s too late.” Follow the recommended public health behaviors: wear a mask, practice physical distancing, and wash/ sanitize your hands often!

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Every day, the employees of the Office of Administrative Services are contributing to the success of the students, faculty, and staff across USF. We are dedicated to providing excellence in all we do. These stories highlight our successes and showcase our positive impact both at the Ƶ and the larger Tampa Bay Community.