Contrary to expectations, I have remained incredibly healthy since landing in India. I have survived some risky roadside food and questionable glasses of water. Unfortunately, Alexander has not been so lucky.
I blame the air in NID’s Knowledge Management Center (yes, that is a fancy word for library), which is recycled and overly air-conditioned. After several long days researching Rajasthani turbans in the KMC, Alexander complained that he felt dizzy. Hours later his fever spiked and he suffered a severe bout of indigestion. By one a.m. he was clutching our decrepit toilet and crying out that he wanted to go home. “I am done! It’s over!” I stroked his head and made him drink mineral water with a dash of sugar and lime.
It took forty-eight hours for the worst to subside. His teeth chattered with chill while his brow sweated. He was unable to sleep or eat, and could not keep the antibiotics down. It was excruciating to watch, in part because I was convinced that I would be next!
Just when I began to seriously worry, his health improved. Within a day the viral infection mysteriously transformed into a serious cold, complete with congestion and a deep cough. I am happy to say I remain in the pink.
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