Let’s face it….we are all feeling the anxiety that COVID-19 has introduced to the world. Infection and death rates continue to rise and the next level of protection available are the very new vaccination options. With the newness and uncharted territory of the COVID-19 vaccine, the experience has provoked questions in the minds of many whom have yet had any personal experience. As we consider the option of vaccination for COVID-19 protection, many have no personal frame of reference. We are unable to utilize our common investigative techniques that include surveying friends and family. The reality is that many do not yet know anyone (personally) whom can share their experience to influence decisions and build comfort. Well, September Set is happy to be that much needed friend, as we proceed to share baseline information and personal experience to help inform you in your journey.

COVID Vaccine 101: Approved vaccinations are offered via injection into the muscle (typically in the upper arm) in a series of 2 doses, given 1 month apart. Clinical trials have proven the benefit to vaccine. They have illustrated prevention of COVID-19 after 2 doses (given one month apart) of the vaccine. However, currently, the length of time of protection following vaccination is unknown. Side effects may include injection site reactions like pain, tenderness, swelling and redness, as well as general side effects. The general side effects may include fatigue, headache, muscle pain, joint pain, chills, nausea and vomiting, and fever.

The two themes that are illustrated in my initial experience with the COVID vaccine are equity and friendship. My access to the COVID vaccine included a case of “ it’s who you know” and “friends in high places”, real VIP access. The fact is that I don’t fall in the 1A group (which includes medical professionals, first responders and senior citizens) but am facing the reality of high-exposure as my employer requires in-person return very soon. Concerned about my health and safety with the likelihood that I will be highly exposed in the work place, a friend of mine gave my name to their family member, who could assist. To my surprise, this family member is not only a physician but also runs a medical facility. This connection made a difference. Within a week of my name joining a waitlist, I received a congratulatory email offering an appointment for the next day. In a way, it felt like I won the lottery.

With a high level of excitement, I quickly accepted the appointment option and made arrangements to travel to the identified clinic (1 hour drive away) the following day. I went from feeling a level of hopelessness with the idea that being infected by COVID-19 will be highly likely, to a feeling of optimism knowing that having an extra layer of protection with the vaccine puts me in a better position to remain healthy and COVID free. This uplifting moment boiled down to whom I’m friends with; hence, the question of equity. Although grateful for having thoughtful friends, I couldn’t help but wonder how many people are in a position of having anxiety about COVID but do not have friends with the access to provide the extra layer of protection. Furthermore, is a lack of immediate access to the vaccine likely to contribute to the projected rise in COVID-19 infection and deathrates? It’s extremely concerning to imagine the potential number facing a danger zone in the world of COVID-19 without immediate access to the vaccine. A number hard to imagine but likely high, given the recent statistical data of infection, death and vaccination rates.

Needless to say, I was very happy to call my friend (the plug) with gratitude, immediately following my appointment. This friend didn’t have to consider me, but the fact that they did further illustrated the value of friendship. It’s great to feel like you matter to your friends, especially when health and safety are in question. In these moments, we should be reminded of the significance of community and that our survival through challenges may come down to who we choose to call our friends. In the words of my mother, “pick your friends wisely”. This is not a lesson about “who you know”, but most importantly having friends who care and will consider you. Let’s never forget the importance of looking out for each other.