Joe Chille Shares His Covid-19 Vaccination Experience

Many of us have been waiting for what seems like an eternity for an appointment to get the COVID-19 vaccine.

We have the dispensing locations saved on our computer or phone, visiting them numerous times a day only to get the message "there are no appointments available within 50 miles of your location".

Then it happens it allows you to request a schedule an appointment.  Instructs you on what materials to bring when to arrive, the basics.

I oddly enough felt like I had won the lottery, but rather than getting a prize I actually wanted, I got one I needed.

When Covid vaccines originally came out I was apprehensive.  I, probably like many of you said...I'll wait till others get it, people I know, see what they experience.  Not the bravest or most commendable way to do it, but we all have a certain fear of the unknown.

I discussed it with my brother and sisters, my brother and I decided it was something we needed to do.

Once the appointment was scheduled, I googled about the vaccine, side effects, what you should and shouldn't do the day of the appointment.

One respected site advised not to take a hot shower 2 hours before or after the vaccine to lessen the chance of interactions.  That same site said to limit exercise the day of your appointment.  I followed both recommendations.  Sites also advised NOT taking allergy meds or things like Tylenol or Ibuprofen before receiving the injection. Again, I thought sound advice.

The day of my scheduled appointment arrived so, rather than dressing for the weather I wore a shirt that could be easily rolled-up for the injection.  I arrived at the location 15 minutes early, was asked to fill out a questionnaire, and take a seat.  There were a few other people waiting as well, all socially distanced, all friendly, and very talkative (nervousness will do that).

One person recognized my voice and asked if I was the morning guy on "The Breeze" which then circulated quickly, and we all engaged in discussion before being called in to receive the vaccine.

Once in the private vaccination room, Jen (the attendant) and an observer from a local college greeted me, explained the procedure, that I would be receiving the Moderna vaccine, and what to expect.

The injection was painless, I was given some paperwork to bring home, scheduled for my second vaccine to be given within 28 days, and sent out to a waiting area for about 15 minutes to make sure there were no complications or allergic reactions.

Then I was on my way.  I had no reaction, felt no side effects and had no pain, other than a little tenderness around the injection site hours later.

As the day went on I felt a bit tired which I blamed on not exercising that day, I continued to hydrate, which I read was a good idea and headed off to a good night's sleep.

Today, I feel fine, although hungry, but I am always hungry.  28 days will bring my second shot, which I understand may have some more side effects, but I will keep you posted.

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