That Time a Summer Cold Took Me Out

That Time a Summer Cold Took Me Out. Yes, in the middle of Rosé season.

One minute I’m living my best life, breezy sundress on, sipping something cold under the Sag Harbor sun. The next? I’m in bed, lights off, hoodie up, wrapped in a blanket like it’s January. Summer cold? Try summer KO’d.

I don’t know where this cold came from, but when I tell you it snatched my edges, I’m not exaggerating. It came in strong and fast, and before I knew it, I was dealing with:

• Sneezing that wouldn’t quit
• A dry, hacking cough that left my chest in knots
• Body aches from head to toe
• A stuffed-up nose that made breathing feel like a chore
• Sleepless nights (because apparently coughing never clocks out)
• And real, scary chest pain

This wasn’t some little sniffle. This cold had me down bad — and honestly, I kept thinking how dangerous this could be for someone with asthma or any type of heart or lung condition. If you’ve got underlying issues, something like this could land you in the ER.

So what did I do? I dragged myself over to Sag Harbor Pharmacy, because sometimes you just need that neighborhood spot where they know your name, actually care, and carry more than just the basics. They had everything I needed — cough drops, elderberry, tea, Tylenol, and even a little compassion. That place is a gem.

And listen — I tried to fight through it at first. Big mistake. Eventually, I had to cancel plans, shut the laptop, and just be sick. I hydrated, I slept (finally), and I let my body do what it needed to do.

Here’s what I learned (so you don’t have to):

1. Don’t downplay it. A summer cold can feel just as brutal as the flu. If you’re coughing your lungs out, that’s not “just allergies.”
2. Take your butt to bed. Rest is not a luxury; it’s a requirement.
3. Support local. Sag Harbor Pharmacy came through for me — quick, easy, and personal.
4. Listen to your body. If your chest hurts or you feel short of breath, don’t play. Call your doctor.
5. Give yourself grace. You don’t have to push through everything. Summer colds don’t care about your calendar.

The truth? Being sick in the summer feels unfair. But your health doesn’t follow the seasons — it follows how well you take care of yourself.

Take it from me: Don’t ignore the signs. Don’t skip the pharmacy. Don’t feel bad for resting. You can’t pour from an empty cup, even if it’s full of iced tea and sunshine.

Real talk. Real people.