For months I declared, "I won't be a guinea pig. I'll wait to get a vaccine after they have been proven to work safely." In the meantime, I realized that I have lost a year of my life to this virus while avoiding it - a year of interacting in person with my children and grandchildren, being with friends, meeting with my church for worship, and doing normal daily activities. At my age (68,) a year is a big chunk of my remaining years in this world!
I decided to get my doctors' opinions and trust their judgement. Both my gp and my rheumatologist told me to get the vaccine as soon as possible. I scheduled my appointment for the first day the vaccine was made available for my age group, and I received my first injection 4 days ago. I'm looking forward to having the booster and living with less fear and more normalcy. (Bring on the grands!)
For Meirish and others with doubts and/or reaction concerns, I'm not suggesting that everyone should follow my example. I know that some of you will be advised by doctors to wait or decline the vaccine, and you should heed their advice. I wish the best for each of you in reaching the best decision for your situation.
By the way, my vaccine was from Pfizer. I had no side effects except for a little arm soreness the next day and some additional tiredness.
Best wishes!
Cheryl