I finally received my first COVID shot.

As I’ve mentioned before, I’m sixty-five years old and have a compromised immune system. Since I have a strong desire to live and want to be part of society once again, the COVID vaccine is rather important to me.

For weeks I’ve been searching but not finding the vaccine. However, when the subject arose in conversation, I’ve told friends and family about my vexing search.

Kyle gets a shot in the arm (Click to enlarge)

When the local health department scheduled a mass vaccination clinic near my home, I had several people phone and email me. My grousing and a letter to the editor probably helped with that. Without help, I would not have found the webpage to make appointments. Even as I filled out the forms for my wife and me, the available times were decreasing.

Two days later, we arrived about fifteen minutes early for the drive-through clinic. The line of cars already stretched several blocks down the road. We inched forward in our car for nearly an hour. Then, a masked woman walked down the line talking with those in each vehicle. She asked if we had an appointment and then told us not to be concerned about being late.

That was not my worry. I feared she would say that the vaccine supply was running low and we might not get the shot.

We were in line for nearly two hours before we received the shots. Don’t get me wrong, I’m not complaining—at least not about that. I now have the first shot and an appointment for the second, but without computer skills and a network of friends, I wouldn’t have been so fortunate. I know many people who lack the requisite skills or circle of friends. I’m trying to stay in touch with these people, but there has to be a better way for them to schedule an appointment.

A Shot in the Arm