As I watched military leaders share their vaccine experiences to alleviate fears and underscore its importance, I felt like I needed to do the same for military spouses.
I will start by stating that I have no concerning risk factors that would make me a poor candidate for any of the current COVID-19 vaccines on the market. My family is not considered at risk for serious complications should we contract COVID-19, either. But I know this is not the case for everyone. This is one of the main reasons I immediately signed up to receive my vaccination. If I can save one life by being one of the 70% of our American citizens hopefully vaccinated by summer, then I’ll do it. Gladly.
Currently stationed in the Midwest, I was able to get the vaccination during my state’s second round of distribution because I work for a veteran’s homeless shelter. On Friday, Jan. 22, I arrived at the health clinic with my co-workers for my first dose of Moderna. The clinic’s staff members were friendly, and the building was bustling with police and firefighters there to get their vaccines, too.
When it was my turn to sit in the chair to receive my shot, there was absolutely zero trepidation in my mind. I asked one of the healthcare workers to videotape it for this article and truthfully didn’t even feel the needle go in. It was over and done before I realized it! Amazing, considering I am an absolute baby when it comes to flu shots. I was required to stay for 15 minutes to be observed before I could leave. Those who have a history of reactions were asked to stay longer.
My post-COVID vaccine experience: Days 1 through 3
Day 1
Thirty minutes after the first dose of the vaccine was administered, I felt a slight tingling in my arm that received the shot. It subsided quickly and didn’t return. Around six hours later I began experiencing a slight headache, and my arm was definitely feeling sore. I took Tylenol, which helped tremendously. The only thing abnormal was that I was tired that evening and went to bed earlier than normal.
Day 2
When I woke up, my arm was sorer than the day before but not so much so that I needed to take anything. Later that afternoon I had a slight headache again, so I did take some Tylenol. I had no issues throughout the day, and I wasn’t tired at all that evening.
Day 3
My arm started off sore when I awoke, but by the time the evening came, it was gone. Everything is back to normal!
I have no concerns and am so glad I made the decision to get it. It is my fervent prayer that those who are safely able to receive this vaccine, do. In the last month, I have lost three family members to this devastating virus. I’ve also watched a host of other friends and family become ill, some critically. Knowing that we are fast approaching 500,000 Americans lost hurts my heart more than I can bear some days. I remain endlessly grateful to the scientists who worked tirelessly to find what I call a light in this endless dark night.
If you asked me what this first COVID-19 vaccine brought to my life, the answer is simple: hope.
