278 Hunt for Vaccine

On the hunt for a vaccine!

In this most unusual of times, we found ourselves going after something we never imagined--a vaccine for Covid-19. There we were lining up not for concert tickets or hot commodities but for a shot in the arm.

As soon as the first distribution was announced, those who qualified started a texting and calling chain to let others know. It was like the hottest gossip in town. We sent the information to all our friends who met the criteria. They were excited and ready to embark on a vaccination hunt.

The first eligible group was 75 and over. Would you believe I turned 75 on the actual day of the first distribution in the community – Jan. 11. My husband lacked two months of reaching the coveted 75, but since he lives with me, he was eligible. How lucky he was.

I never thought I would spend my 75th birthday in line waiting for my first vaccine shot. It takes two to be completely vaccinated so this was the start of the expedition.

At first, we weren’t sure we would stay. We drove by the first time that morning and thought the line was too long. But then when we turned around and came back by, we decided to do it. What else did we have to do as the pandemic had curtailed all activities!

The only car parking we could find was about a half a mile away, but we were prepared with comfortable, warm clothes. It was a typical January-type day but luckily no precipitation or wind.

The line snaked around the parking lot of the fire hall and most everyone had on a mask. A friend who had arrived before us gave us the lay of the land. Numbers were being distributed at the door for entry into the hall where vaccinations were being given.

After standing in line for at least an hour, one of the health department officials started giving out numbers to those in line before reaching the door. That way once we got the number we could move around and stay warm. Our number was in the 500s and the 300s were being served. That day more than 900 were given, and the officials kept saying that they had plenty for everyone. That was such a relief!

As I said before, where else did we have to go since the pandemic had stalled almost all activities, so it was not an imposition. Time went by slowly but we were determined. Finally, we arrived at the door and entered the hall to be shot. 

The staff was amazing. We both got our vaccinations from the same nurse who was very kind and considerate. Then we waited for 15 minutes to make sure we had no side effects.

Those that got vaccinated that day made vows to each other to share information when we got word of the second shot. We would be eligible Feb. 8.

So happy birthday to me!! Never could I have imagined that the best gift I could get was a Covid-19 vaccination. Also, we had no side effects except sore arms where the shot was given.

More and more distributions were scheduled in the area. We kept waiting to hear about our second. Another friend found out the location had been changed, but the date was the same. Then another friend was called for an appointment and was told to tell others, so the vaccination hotline began again to make sure everyone knew. Waiting for the call was nerve-wracking so some of us called and got through, and others kept trying until successful. We stayed vigilant and appointments for the second shot were made at the new location at the health department in our area.

I can’t tell you the relief when we went through those doors and got the second shot. It was like old home week as we saw friends and acquaintances. Again, we had sore arms, but this time we were a little tired for a couple of hours but nothing major.

As the weeks have unfolded, many friends have had trouble getting appointments so we have all shared information as best we can. Conversations throughout the elderly population continue to be laced with vaccination comments, such as how to get an appointment, where to get a shot, are there side effects, etc.

My sisters in other states have had similar experiences and are close to getting the second shot. One of them recently exclaimed how nice it will be when all of us old vaccinated folks can get together!

We are cautioned to continue wearing masks, social distance, and avoid large gatherings. We could still get the virus, but it shouldn’t be as severe. So please get vaccinated when it is your turn to help stop the spread. It will help us all to live in a safer, vaccinated country and world. This pandemic can’t end soon enough!

                                  Vaccine-Savvy Frances