A Little Lift Over the Long Haul

Meet Itezelle, a Humana associate who courageously fought COVID-19 not once, but twice. Her story is one of resilience and strength during extremely challenging times.​

Itezelle contracted COVID in July 2020. Her symptoms began on a run, with pain shooting up her leg. Within days, she was struggling to breathe and had a 102 degree fever. She spent 26 days in the hospital, and, even after her discharge, she continued to deal with lingering COVID symptoms, including shortness of breath, brain fog and other mental health side effects.

For Itezelle, recovery took a long time, both physically and mentally. She continues to struggle with the trauma of being suddenly admitted to the hospital as a young, healthy person and the weight of surviving an illness many others didn’t – especially after contracting COVID a second time in early 2022, despite being fully vaccinated.

The well being of our associates, both mental and physical, drives our mission to provide a workplace where our associates feel welcome, safe and like they belong. The COVID-19 pandemic challenged that mission, but our commitment held strong to our associates and their safety.

Learn more about Humana’s commitment to associate well-being, value and work culture at careers.humana.com. 

Itezelle spent 26 days in the hospital when she contracted COVID in July 2020.

Itezelle’s physical and mental recovery took a long time. She continues to struggle with the trauma of being suddenly admitted to the hospital and surviving an illness many others didn’t.