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Ghosts of Fevers Past

By Drew Zandonella-Stannard

I am well practiced in the art of modern convalescing. As someone who frequently struggles to manage two autoimmune diseases, I know that a solid Wi-Fi connection, electric heating pads, safety-capped prescription bottles standing at attention, and a refrigerator stocked with green juices all provide a certain level of comfort. Still, I often find myself fantasizing about recuperating in the Victorian era: Visions of crisp linens, dainty blossoms arranged cheerfully near the bed, and trays of healing foods on the best porcelain dishes float through my head as I attend to myself in my own, servantless household. (Of course, I realize the reality would be somewhat grimmer, most likely beginning with a lack of antibiotics and ending with me being taken out by pneumonia in early childhood.) Keep reading »

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