I have been luckily enough to receive both doses of the COVID vaccine. What a a feeling! It's crazy how much has gone into the COVID vaccine process. I know some people are unsure about the vaccine but I was happy to get in line. Why did I do it you ask? I did it because I could, because I believe in science, because I want to protect my peers and family, because I want to see live music, because I want my kids in school and because I want date night again. I want life to return to what we knew it was with out worry every time we come to a crowd of people. I know it's not there yet but this is the beginning. I had minimal side affects from the 2nd vaccine. I got it early on a Friday morning. About 6 hours later I feel super tired and almost like I was in a fog. I was also super nauseous all day. I woke up the next day and felt normal. I kept waiting for more symptoms but kept busy that day and nothing happened. I know that this doesn't mean that I can be less vigilant with mask wearing and hand washing but again it's a start!
I have been helping in extra spots at work lately. I worked on the COVID triage phone line. I took calls from staff members that need to get tested for COVID, helped them make the swab clinic appointment and did follow up calls with staff that have tested positive. I have learned so much. It's been fun to be a part of this crazy time in health care. I also have volunteered to help at work at the vaccine clinics. I have been helping about one shift a week. It has been such a moving experience. I truly know that I am a part of history in the making. It has been an honor to give the vaccine to my peers at Mayo clinic. I have gotten to vaccinate almost 100 people! I have met so many wonderful people that are also excited to get their vaccines. I have met other nurses, doctors, scientist, construction workers and my favorite was a 99 year old nun. It was truly an honor to vaccine one of the Franciscan sisters. She was so sweet and had the tiniest arms! I said a little prayer that I didn't hurt her or leave a bruise.
So here we are almost a full year into this unprecedented time of my life but I finally feel like we might see the light at the end of the tunnel. We have gone through so much in the last year. I'm hopeful that things are going to get better. I try to not get anxious when I watch the news and learn about the new COVID strains. I guess some days I'm hopeful and others I'm anxious. I think that is where most of us are? One day at a time. Today I'm grateful that I get to help and feel like I can control something. Even if it's little- it's some thing. Hope you all are being safe and staying healthy. We will get through this!
