THERE are a lot of issues and debates in people’s minds about whether or not to get vaccinated. Is your decision founded on faith, personal will, science, or myth?
Indeed, I am so grateful to have been vaccinated. There is a feeling of being less anxious. I feel more secure. However, protocols/health measures should still be observed, due to the possibility of being infected with a new variant.
Days before my vaccination, I prepared myself mentally and physically. I prayed and had a positive outlook as much as possible. At the age of almost 88, I was hoping that there would be no serious side effects. I ate healthy food, took vitamins, and had enough sleep.
On the day of my first dose of the vaccine, I went early to avoid waiting in line. Everything went smoothly. My blood pressure and oxygen level were normal. The medical personnel were very efficient and accommodating. Kudos to the brave frontliners, doctors, nurses, etc. who dutifully and willingly administered the process of vaccination. Thank God I had only mild side effects, like slight headache and sleepiness. It was the same with my second dose.
It is sad that I have close friends and acquaintances who were not able to make it, much younger than I am, who succumbed to the deadly virus.
A year ago, before I was vaccinated, I got sick. Before the hospital admitted me, they first subjected me to a swab test. I was placed in an isolation room for two days without visitors, with only the assigned nurse to administer my medicine. It was a heart-rending experience, being alone in that isolation room, away from my family, and not knowing what the result of my swab test would be. I was exceedingly happy when my doctor told me that my swab result turned out negative. What if it turned out positive? It was dreadful to think about it. I came to realize that my anxiety level with the thought of contracting COVID is way higher than my worry of the side effects. Contracting COVID would involve not only me but my family, and that is unthinkable.
At this point, I would like to encourage my friends and other acquaintances to avail themselves of the vaccination program of our government. I salute our LGU for opening many vaccination sites in our City: UB, SLU, St. Vincent, BCC, and SM.
I hope that your decision will not be influenced by misinformation like stories of personal bad experiences which sometimes are blown out of proportion. Before I got vaccinated, hearing a rumor without proof increased my worries especially because of my underlying conditions due to my old age. But I am blessed that I have a doctor, whom I trust, and who knows my medical history.
I cannot overemphasize the importance of being vaccinated. Case in point, I have watched on the news that there was a COVID outbreak in a particular government office building, and it was learned that those who were not infected were those who were vaccinated. I am thankful that all of us in my household have been vaccinated.
Though it is still a personal choice it’s worth going for – for health reasons, and for peace of mind.
Thanking God for His favor, safety, and protection. Let us pray and trust the Almighty! We owe not only to ourselves but to others to follow, take care, be considerate, and be good citizens!
It’s a thumbs up for Mr. Josue Caasi, 87 years old, retired DepEd School Principal.
