Getting the COVID-19 Vaccine and Giving Back as a Volunteer

I can’t believe COVID-19 is still here. I don’t know what I expected back in March 2020, but I never imagined it would grow to such a threat and become so devastating to the world.

I frequently will remark to my grandkids about the pandemic and how I’ve never seen anything quite like it. I remind them of past pandemics, and they do care and listen to me, but they are quickly diverted to work, school and probably social media. I’m fine with it as long as they are safe and taking care of themselves.

Getting Our COVID Vaccines

Last month, my husband and I received our second Pfizer vaccine. It’s funny, I felt such a relief and an overwhelming joy. We took selfies and sent them out to our kids and grandkids. Everyone sent well wishes and their excitement for our achievement. We did joke about our pictures. They said “I knew you were old, but I didn’t realize you’d be in THAT group!” and “Do they give you suckers after you got your shot?”

“Your bandaid is pretty small. Either your arm is buff or the shot is really little.” It was the usual banter we have with each other.

I will frequently check in with the grandkids to see how they’re doing and if they have made plans for getting their vaccines. Their responses vary, but certainly they’re moving in the right direction. Earlier this spring, their focus was on school and sports. None of their schools were offering vaccines to students, but it’s slowly changing. Slowly changing and just in time for summer vacation.

The grandkids run the gambit of where and when they’re getting their vaccines. The oldest will receive her second dose next week, while another grandkid was in sports and tested three times a week. Team members didn’t get their vaccines because of possible reactions. Now that volleyball is over for the year, she’ll decide if she’ll stay a few weeks longer in Kansas City to receive her shot or wait until she comes home for summer vacation. The youngest will wait until summer vacation. It sounds like everyone has a plan, and I hope everything works out accordingly. I think I’ve said the same thing about a grandkid’s plan when I don’t want to get too nosy but still want to know. Yep, I’m a grandma!

Volunteering at a Vaccine Clinic

Last week I volunteered at Pinnacle Bank Area (PBA) on the day that first and second doses were being given. After my personal experience, I wanted to give back to the Lancaster County Health Department. I was assigned a spot near the entrance of PBA. My group of volunteers decided to trade off duties throughout the day, which was a delight! I first provided directions to the clients with my green flags. Next, I handed out clipboards and pens to those getting their first dose, and I ended the day cleaning off the clipboards and pens.

I told the grandkids about my volunteering, and they told me “congratulations, good job,” but they also thought my tasks sounded a bit boring. I told them that it could be boring if you let it be boring, or it could be hilarious if you put some effort into it.

Handing out clipboards and saying good luck was important as I knew the gesture would be calming. Big smiles can work wonders. And I had a great time waving the green flags in the manner of the flag person at a NASCAR race! It was probably too much fun, as I laughed the whole time. Some of the clients enjoyed my enthusiastic performance, but I quickly changed to a more somber routine when I detected a bit of confusion or fear on some faces.

The grandkids understood my need to keep smiling and laugh because it’s the same thing I do with them. Laughter, positive thoughts and family will get us through this pandemic and future national and world crises. Keep on smiling and carry on. The grandkids said they would carry on the tradition!