Epilepsy Talk
“Vaccine Angels” Make it Easier to Find COVID-19 Vaccination Appointments | March 2, 2021
They’re here…they’re there…they’re nowhere.
Anyone stay up to till midnight, trying to get a slot on the Rite Aid spot?
Arthur has three times. Yes, hope springs eternal.
Here’s how it works:
Applications for the next day begin at midnight. So, at the opening gong, you get on the phone.
Eureka! there’s a spot available. Fill out the necessary information. Submit it. The slot is gone.
Try tomorrow night sucker.
But wait. There’s an angel among us...
His name is Nick Muerdter and he launched a page two weeks ago, to help people find open COVID-19 vaccine appointments at nearby pharmacies. So far, there are 2.4 million hits on the page.
“I just wanted to simplify it, so you didn’t have to click a dozen times to find out there are no appointments available,” the Colorado programmer said.
“I have plenty of neighbors who are driving hours to get to other counties where they can get vaccinated, but not everybody can do that,” said Melissa McPheeters, a professor of health policy and biomedical informatics at Vanderbilt University Medical Center.
And then there are those of us who can’t drive.
Even for those with options, sometimes the system doesn’t work at all.
In Washington, D.C., the city’s vaccination portal was down over the weekend, unable to handle a surge as more than 36,000 people tried to get access to 4,300 appointments, according to a tweet by Lindsey Parker, chief technology officer for the D.C. government.
“Appointment scheduling has become a big issue,” said Tinglong Dai, a professor of operations management at the Johns Hopkins University school of business who has written about the problem. “It’s cruel when people have to suffer through this because the government isn’t doing the hard work.”
In a news conference Monday, White House COVID-19 response coordinator Jeff Zients acknowledged the problem.
“I am trying to help someone who lives in a FEMA designated zip code in Dallas and has severe underlying conditions to get an appointment for a vaccine. I put his name on the Dallas County list. Is there anything else I can do? Should I go ahead and register him everywhere else?” read one from Texas.
Tracking COVID-19 vaccine distribution by state: How many people have been vaccinated in the US?
Looking for a COVID-19 vaccination appointment? Try these websites:
vaccinespotter.org, if you’re trying to get a spot at a pharmacy chain.
Better yet, this site, vaccinefinder.org, gives users current vaccine eligibility for their ZIP code and shows what appointments are available at nearby national pharmacy chain stores.
Yes, the system is broken. How much? Let me count the ways. But there are “vaccine angels” out there to help you get that life-changing jab.
To read the whole article, go to: https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/health/2021/03/02/covid-19-vaccination-appointment-system-coronavirus/6838918002/?utm_medium=10today.media.tue.20210302.436.1&utm_source=email&utm_content=article&utm_campaign=10-for-today—4.0-styling
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Tags: COVID-19 appointments, eligibility, government, national, pharmacy chain, state, vaccine finder, vaccine spotter, zip code
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My church helped me! They would give me a ride outside my county! My county is slow as molasses! When my husband saw this he changed his mind and he is getting shot 4 days later! The group was fantastic! My county were 75yrs and above. The other counties were more advanced.
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Comment by Toni Robison — March 2, 2021 @ 5:22 PM
Good for them! Good for you!
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Comment by Phylis Feiner Johnson — March 2, 2021 @ 6:26 PM
NO. NO. NO. Deadly Vaccine 💉 💉 Changes DNA. DRA. Genes. Sterilization in women. Kills babies. Pregnant women LOST baby.
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Comment by Rita McDonald — March 2, 2021 @ 5:52 PM
Sometimes it is more about getting vaccinated for the love of those that are alive here and now, their caregivers, ourselves, every sector the medical professionals, nurses, technicians, emt’s, and cleaners and the ones who we may not know that have loved ones, family and friends in all of the world!! I got my first jab for the love of myself, my husband and children, family, friends, all forms of medical staff and society here and now 🙏🏼🦅🦬❤️🦬🦅🙏🏼😘😘😘😘😘. I would just like to know how others did and which vaccine was given to them as well as how they responded? GOOD FOR THEM, YOURSELF AND EVERYONE WHO HAD GOT IT AS WELL!!!!!!! 😃🙏🏼🦬🦅🙏🏼❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️. Plus I would sure LOVE TO FINALLY MEET FRIENDS IN OTHER PARTS OF THE WORLD ONE DAY!!!!!!! 😃😃😃😃😃🙏🏼🦅🦬❤️
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Comment by Kathy S.B — March 2, 2021 @ 8:02 PM
Changes Developmental Reading Assessment (DRA) ?
Kills babies? Those are very serious accusations, and should not be made lightly on a reputable web site like this Rita. In which scientific journal were these incidents reported?
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Comment by MICHAEL H — March 2, 2021 @ 8:10 PM
I have to agree with Michael, Rita. I have never heard of DRA. The virus mutates but the vaccination has been changed to help with even that. All of these viruses, even the flu virus mutate. What are your sources or are you trying to start new conspiracy theories? We don’t need that right now. We need positivity, hope and looking towards the future and protecting ourselves and all of those around us against this horrible virus. Have you tested positive with it? I have and I’m still dealing with the lingering effects from it. I have to be very honest that it makes me incredibly angry and upset when anyone says things as you just did and does not back them up with actual facts. Those of us who are immune compromised and have underlying conditions live day to day at risk. The anxiety alone is paralyzing. So please, think before you write or speak!! Kill babies?? Seriously? The vaccination would not get approval if that happened. In rare cases an allergic reaction may occur and that is very unfortunate. I have heard of that and those cases are reported along with side effects. I know of people who will also NOT be given the vaccination because they most likely will have a serious reaction as determined by a doctor. But nothing of what you are saying has any truth to it. Do us all a favor and please try to think and stay positive. It will help everyone. Just having the Covid virus has been no walk in the park. The thought of protection against getting it again and keeping people safe is relief and a huge sign of hope for the future.🙏🏻🙏🏻😷♥️
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Comment by Janet R. — March 3, 2021 @ 2:38 AM
Thank you for your input Janet and your continuing common sense.
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Comment by Phylis Feiner Johnson — March 3, 2021 @ 9:16 AM
Thank you too Phylis!
It’s very true that there much we still need to learn about this awful virus but we are learning new things everyday. What surprises me is amount of humans who can’t, won’t or refuse to look at this situation with even an ounce of common sense. Not wearing a mask is just selfish. I wear 2 masks now and gloves and still wash my hands often! I’m still fighting symptoms and it’s over 2 months ago that I tested positive. Wearing a mask is not a lot to ask and neither is social distancing if it means keeping others safe.
Mask up and stay safe everyone😷♥️🍀
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Comment by Janet R. — March 3, 2021 @ 1:40 PM
I completely agree with you Janet!!!!! I am SO SORRY YOU CAUGHT COVID-19!!!!!!! I personally have lost 5 people alone in my own family to COVID-19 so I can say that. It is the hardest most difficult helpless feeling in the whole universe!!!!! I got vaccinated for the love of my husband (has diabetes and high blood pressure), mother inlaw (cancer), children (sever asthmatics), the medical community, my family, friends and society!!!!!!! And so NOBODY GETS SICK IF AND WHEN I EVER LEAVE MY HOUSE AND YARD BECAUSE OF ME NOT KNOWING I HAD IT AND SPREAD IT (IF I EVER DID, which I haven’t THANK CREATOR, GOD, MY GRANDMA AND ANGELS) please take care of yourself Janet and PLEASE GET BETTER 🙏🏼🦬🦅❤️😘😘😘😘😘
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Comment by Kathy S.B — March 3, 2021 @ 10:06 PM
Reblogged this on Disablities & Mental Health Issues.
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Comment by Kenneth — March 3, 2021 @ 6:23 AM
If EVERY NEUROLOGIST knows what I KNOW how that vaccines & shots with MSG’s, ASPARTAME’s, METALS like ALUMINUM, MERCURY, TALC, & other toxins as ”magnesium stearate” weakens seizure thresholds alone, then NOBODY with ANY BRAIN CONDITION NEEDS TO HAVE 1 VACCINE OR FLU SHOT. !st of all those toxins & chemicals, while they ACTIVATE & EXCITES BRAIN CHEMISTRY & GLUTAMATE in the brain making MORE seizures, headaches, MS & parkinson’s attacks to happen just to name a FEW THINGS that goes wrong with ALL brain chemistry. So do your HOMEWORK for YOUR BRAIN 1st, & not to please someone elses PEACE OF MIND that you had a vaccine or flu shot, that you may not get any virus or flu, BUT you can or will have MORE SEIZURES ? It’s not rocket science to know that if you take the Vitamins B’s .C, D, ZINC & ECHINEACEA, that a persons immune system is STRINGER than the average persons immune system. LIMIT the B-6 & never OD with that., just know what is TOO MUCH B-6, while B-12 has no limits from all I have been told. as is VITAMIN C, and there are a few different C vitamins.
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Comment by James D — March 3, 2021 @ 11:38 AM
James,
What you say is fine…for you. However, do you know what constitutes the Covid 19 vaccine and how it is cultured and produced? For many, many years my Dr would not give me a Flu vaccine because it was cultured in an egg medium and I am allergic to eggs. About 3 years ago that all changed and the Flu vaccine has become more refined than ever and I can have it. Thank goodness because I hate the Flu!!
I believe technology has advanced enough that harmful ingredients such as the ones you mentioned are used with caution. Those of us with neurological issues who are at risk of catching this horrible virus are in far more danger than the possible risks the side effects may present and that is also why you have a trusted Dr you can ask. They, too don’t want anything to happen to you.🍀
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Comment by Janet R. — March 3, 2021 @ 1:23 PM
Janet, I think “TRUSTED” Dr is the operative word!
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Comment by Phylis Feiner Johnson — March 3, 2021 @ 1:41 PM
THANK YOU JANET 😘🙏🏼🦬🦅❤️😘. PLEASE PLEASE GET BETTER AND HEAL UP MY FRIEND!! 😘🙏🏼🦬🦅🙏🏼❤️😘
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Comment by Kathy S.B — March 4, 2021 @ 11:22 AM
The “Angel of Death is more appropriate. Y’all need to do some reading and research. If you’re relying on what the TeeVee news says, without doing YOUR OWN fact checking, you’re going to be very sad. Loo up how many people have been injured or killed by the “vaccine” already. If that doesn’t make an impression on you, then read the ingredients. Then, think: why do we need a vaccine for a “virus” that has a 99+% cure rate? What a shame this site has been ruined by ignorance. Sorry Phyllis, you really should do some research.
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Comment by Holly — March 4, 2021 @ 7:24 AM
Could you please cite your resources, Holly?
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Comment by Phylis Feiner Johnson — March 4, 2021 @ 8:56 AM
Holly,
Why are you under the misguided impression that anyone here has not done their own research or spoken to their own physicians? Please don’t doubt our intelligence that would be a grave mistake on your part.
In addition, if there is one person among us who does a tremendous amount of research it is Phylis! She cites her resources all the time whereas you have not. Your comment regarding the vaccine and it’s 99.99% effectiveness makes no sense. A vaccine is not a cure it is a prevention method. You need to get your facts straight before you rip others apart. I will say it again, the FDA would not approve the use of any vaccine or it’s ingredients that would cause more harm than good. The truth is when you have a pandemic the magnitude such as this one there will always be death. We hate that but it’s true. The fact that a vaccine can be made as quickly as this one is, is miraculous. In the broader picture, yes there have been deaths and reactions which have been reported but the lives protected far outweigh the lives lost by the brave souls willing to take the vaccine.
So where are you sources? I’m sticking with Phylis and my sources who happen to be the CDC, Dr. Fauci, my own Drs including my neurologist and many other research sources. I read a lot!
In case you missed this fact it is possible to get COVID-19 again, hence there is no cure. The vaccine is the prevention of getting it. Since I have gotten Covid and have been suffering from its effects I will get the vaccine. Honestly, it still is your choice whether or not you want to get it. However, it is not your right to bully or spout misguided information at the expense of other people. Angel of Death? Really? I don’t think so. This is a support page and it’s nice to have such informative knowledge. I’ve learned a ton of information from Phylis’ work here. If you don’t agree, I’m sorry for you. You have the choice to unsubscribe or be nice.
BTW….thank you Kathy and everyone else for the well wishes , I’m slowly getting better . I had to get tested again and I’m waiting on my results. Mask up😷 and stay safe everyone ♥️
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Comment by Janet R. — March 4, 2021 @ 11:14 PM
Oh THANK YOU JANET!! 😘. You WILL GET BETTER I PROMISE AND PRAY YOU HEAL UP MY FRIEND!! 😘🙏🏼🦬🦅❤️
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Comment by Kathy S.B — March 6, 2021 @ 3:16 PM
Thank you!!!!!!! TRUST ME WE HAVE ALL KINDS OF DOCTORS AND NURSES AND NEUROLOGISTS AND EPITOLOGISTS I HAVE GONE TO PRIOR TO GETTING VACCINATED!!!!!!! AND THEY ALL SAID “GET IT NOW!!!!!!! YOUR TOO HIGH RISK!!!!!!!”. That’s where I got my information and guidance from aside from my pharmacist and YES READING UP ON IT TOO!!
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Comment by Kathy S.B — March 4, 2021 @ 11:26 AM
I will admit however “YES THERE ARE A FEW REACTIONS, but they DO PASS!! And at least OUR FUNERAL COUNT IS GOING DOWN TOO NOW!!!!!!! But YES AGAIN “FOR THE LOVE OF LIFE AND SAFETY FOR OURSELVES, FAMILY, FRIENDS AND THE WORLD POPULATION!! 🙏🏼🦬🦅😇❤️”. I just LOVE MY HUSBAND, CHILDREN, FAMILY, FRIENDS AND SOCIETY TOO MUCH TO NOT TRY!!!!!!! AND I WILL NEVER REGRET IT!! But I do agree TALK TO YOUR DOCTOR, EPITOLOGISTS, NURSES, AND EPILEPSY SOCIETY TOO!!!!!!! Then make up your mind. 😊🙏🏼🦬🦅🙏🏼❤️
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Comment by Kathy S.B — March 4, 2021 @ 11:33 AM
Kathy,
I am so sorry for all the loss you and your family has suffered.
You seem to be a very strong and positive person by nature with a lot of Faith and that is wonderful. We all need that. I, for one do not look at death as an ending but rather as a new beginning, life after life. Me and my family share a background in hospice care. I have a very different viewpoint than most and it’s a positive one based on my experience and research.
Epilepsy is hard enough to deal with by itself and I’m glad you have such a great support system. Thank you for sharing your positivity with the rest of us. I know I really need it!🙏🏻♥️🥰
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Comment by Janet R. — March 5, 2021 @ 12:09 AM
Thank you for your compassion and caring, loving words Janet 🙏🏼🦅🦬😰😘. I have to do my part too to try and help everyone in any way I can because we’re all still here now 😘. I am so sorry from the bottom of my heart that you caught Covid-19 🥲🥲, but we will all overcome this!! I am due for my second vaccine on March 23rd (it’s Moderna) and I must admit I am a little nervous 😟, but someone has to go or nobody else will ever know or learn anything for the betterment of epileptics and humanity as a whole. In my culture “epilepsy” translates into “we quickly pass away, but also come back.” Therefore for those of us with epilepsy are kind of “special” in a weird way and are also very protected to the point of suffocation sometimes, but they mean well 😊❤️. Plus Covid-19 seems to be taking a huge toll on my people all over North America!! So some of us just have to be BIGGER and help bring about a positive change for this world and for eachother that we all live in!! Ironically (not very many are aware), but I took my first vaccine just just after I had a tooth removed then turn into an infection too. But I’m still here and will get the second vaccine!! I promise!! Have faith my friend and we will one day get to all hopefully meet one day!! Please get better my friend and please take care of yourself and thank you so much for sharing with me 🙏🏼🦬🦅😘😘😘😘😘.
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Comment by Kathy S.B — March 5, 2021 @ 1:05 AM
Phylis. I hate to mention it but some of our more enthusiastic contributors do not seem to know the etiquette of using upper case when writing e-mails. The occasional use of upper case in order to emphasize a word or a phrase is accepted practice …however, excessive use is regarded as the equivalent of shouting (bullying?) and is not acceptable. Furthermore the use of excessive upper case on this web site seems to be loosely associated with people promoting “conspiracy theories” concerning Vaccination and to a lesser extent promoting dubious claims relating to additives, nutraceuticals and pharmaceuticals.
This is a wonderful website (thanks to you Phylis) for the interchange of ideas, experiences and scientific data relating to “epilepsy.” I hope that I am not the only one that is concerned with the intrusion of pseudo science, “shouting” and off topic comments relating to vaccination and other matters.
And I managed to express these views without upper case” shouting!”
Best wishes to all.
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Comment by MICHAEL H HAMILTON — March 4, 2021 @ 1:32 PM
Michael, it’s just that Kathy has her own style, difficult as it may be. She means absolutely no harm and emails/texts me the same way. It’s her own brand of enthusiasm.
(I have asked her privately to please stay on topic.)
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Comment by Phylis Feiner Johnson — March 4, 2021 @ 1:49 PM
If I must be personal, I had James in mind not Kathy. I enjoy Kathy’s enthusiasm and avoidance of conspiracy theories. Sorry for any confusion Kathy!
And I am not trying to shame James (I admire his willingness to get involved) I was just trying to encourage all to stay on topic, to stop spreading consiracy theories and to avoid “shouting.”
It was probably not my place to have attempted to moderate but I confess shouting, conspiracy theories and alternative facts raise my blood pressure. But what else would do you expect from an opinionated former science teacher who later worked in the research based pharmaceutical industry?!
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Comment by Michael H — March 4, 2021 @ 4:23 PM
Thank you Michael 😉 that’s quite alright. Yes Phylis has mentioned that to me as well before so I sincerely apologize. That was never my intention. Funny how my problem is low blood pressure lol.
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Comment by Kathy S.B — March 4, 2021 @ 7:26 PM
Oh a man from BIG PHARMA. You MUST be the enemy in disguise! 🙂
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Comment by Phylis Feiner Johnson — March 4, 2021 @ 4:28 PM
I went back to the very beginning of this post. (That seems like a long time ago.) I think what I saw there was the creator and facilitator of this fine and reputable site giving resources to those of us who need options when it comes to the Covid-19 vaccine. Plainly listing the other websites and medical sources that we could access in order to make getting vaccinated a little easier makes the journey with epilepsy just a little less painless. Also, giving the acknowledgement that there are plenty of us with epilepsy who cannot drive – which makes it even harder to maintain our health – was healing on an emotional level. Asking those who have posted here with opinions that drastically differ from yours (and most of ours), where they are getting their medical information from is just so reasonable. My local Primary Care Physician, a world-renowned Epileptologist from Vanderbilt, and Medicare have all instructed me to do the same thing – get vaccinated. I can name names. Yes, I do have faith in their medical instructions to me. Additionally, I have done my own research; it bears out what my doctors and Medicare have said. Finally, the personal experiences I have heard about from family members and friends are that aside from a sore spot on the arm from the jab in some, as well as feelings of queasiness and weakness for a day or so in a very few of others, the vast majority came away from the experience with a sigh of relief, even with celebration, and with the ultimate goal of being immune from Covid-19. Personally, I have particularly enjoyed watching those in their more mature years simply get creative and celebrate on their back porch with a glass of wine, enjoying nature, and relishing being alive.
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Comment by George Choyce — March 4, 2021 @ 5:57 PM
I’m getting my vaccine tomorrow. And that’s what I’m going to do. Say “Hooray” and kick back with a nice glass of chardonnay.
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Comment by Phylis Feiner Johnson — March 4, 2021 @ 8:26 PM
Let us know how it goes. I would love to hear of other good experiences. It might encourage those of us who are sitting on the fence about getting the vaccine. Your opinion does carry integrity. Besides, that glass of chardonnay sounds wonderful, especially to those who gave up alcohol due to our other meds. Cheers
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Comment by George Choyce — March 4, 2021 @ 9:43 PM
Lol 😂. I don’t have Chardonnay, but I am here still 😘
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Comment by Kathy S.B — March 5, 2021 @ 12:43 AM
Good luck tomorrow Phylis🍀🌈♥️
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Comment by Janet R. — March 4, 2021 @ 11:19 PM
Oh you make me SO PROUD of you Phylis!! 😊🙏🏼🦬🦅❤️😘. If I can do it and go through everything I did to get it (lol and went through) and still survived then so can you!! 😘. I made sure to mention to the fine lady who gave me my jab “this is what I get for jumping off the bridge first!! Lol 😂”. Then she said “we’re all done now”. I had to thank the nurses, doctors and everyone who made that possible 😘. Especially for caring for us enough to help protect us so we could love and protect our loved ones and giving up an opportunity to be able to have a life outside of a house with a fence. 😊🙏🏼🦬🦅❤️😘
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Comment by Kathy S.B — March 5, 2021 @ 12:42 AM
Thank you George! You have a way of simply keeping it real. Today, especially, we need that. There is far too much anger and not enough people appreciating what they still have. We have all lost a lot with some having lost more than others and yet, some who have lost the most are still willing to give more. The human spirit hasn’t died and I am so grateful for that. I read what you say and I always get reminded of that so thank you for that.😁♥️
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Comment by Janet R. — March 4, 2021 @ 11:36 PM
George, I’m right here in the waiting room, feeling slightly victorious. A little early for Chardonnay, but soon! 😉
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Comment by Phylis Feiner Johnson — March 5, 2021 @ 11:10 AM
“A little early for Chardonnay.” Depends on the time zone. For all of our European sisters and brothers with epilepsy, indulge when you get home safely. But for now, we’re right there with you in spirit in that waiting room. Please let us know how it goes. Thanks for all you do.
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Comment by George Choyce — March 5, 2021 @ 11:45 AM
Good for you Phylis!! 😊🎊🎉😘. Maybe one day we will all be able to meet in person and actually get have a celebration of all being here together safely 😘. Lol 😂 it may end being me and my husband’s 26th anniversary but we still have our champagne from our wedding you can all have 😉💕.
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Comment by Kathy S.B — March 5, 2021 @ 10:10 PM
Yea I sure miss going out even for a simple walk around the block or to town and oh the barbque’s. I have my second vaccine coming up second last week of March, but yes i was totally different case. However I can’t wait to finally maybe see a friend in the United States this year 😉💗. Please take care of yourself and please be well and stay safe.
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Comment by Kathy S.B — March 4, 2021 @ 7:33 PM
Depending on which vaccine you could be getting (if you get it) they vary. I had already broke a tooth a week prior so I can’t really say I’m sorry. However other really never had any problem yet that I am aware of other than a sore arm and a bit of a fever that did go away. Only lasted 1-2 days for them.
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Comment by Kathy S.B — March 4, 2021 @ 7:49 PM
Hey everyone!
My results just came back ftom my 2nd Covid test and it was negative!! Yea!!! Bring on the vaccine😁🙏🏻🍀♥️
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Comment by Janet R. — March 4, 2021 @ 11:39 PM
YOU ROCK GIRL!!!
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Comment by Phylis Feiner Johnson — March 5, 2021 @ 8:10 AM
You rock too Phylis!!🌹Celebrate, rest and be well🌷🍀
All the best to you and Arthur!!
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Comment by Janet R. — March 5, 2021 @ 12:09 PM
YAYYYYY!!!!!!!! 😃🎊🎉🎊❤️❤️. Good for you Janet!! You make me a VERY PROUD HOPEFUL lady 🙏🏼🦬🦅❤️😘
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Comment by Kathy S.B — March 5, 2021 @ 10:13 PM
You may have a sore arm tomorrow, but it will pass. Just be a bit mindful for a day or two and keep a Tylenol available for yourself “Phylis” and Arthur tomorrow 😊💕. Some get just a sore arm others feel a bit fluish, but it will pass 😘.
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Comment by Kathy S.B — March 5, 2021 @ 10:19 PM
It helps me to go back to the very beginning, especially with the title of the post: “Vaccine Angels.” I am not being naive here but hopeful. Covid has already affected three of my siblings’ families and also one member of my family. My son had to come back from college, because the school had to close down due to the infection rate. It really was that bad. He then had to get a test here in Tennessee and had to test negative in order to return to school. Guess what? He was positive and then had to be isolated for two weeks and then be tested again with a negative result. So did the rest of his family; yes, that would include me. We all tested negative. Whew. He’s back in school and quite happy being off on his own. You know, when we are honest and step back a little further about how epilepsy has changed our lives, most of us would accurately write that it has been bad. And that puts the PG rating to our conditions. Some have found some good in it, I know. However, when I participate virtually in the Epilepsy Support Group from the Epilepsy Foundation, the stories of what Covid does to individuals, to couples, to families is heartbreaking. They would have gotten the vaccine had they known how difficult and so very real this virus is. When you step back even further and combine Covid with epilepsy, it is an awful combination. So if there are some of you who read this and disagree, write back. Write why you disagree. If it is due to medical studies, then cite your sources. That is reasonable. That’s one of the aspects of this website that is refreshing. We can disagree. When Phylis simply tries to make it easier for us, we can be grateful. The world is a difficult place. There is enough negativity right now in the world; “Vaccine Angels” is one descriptive step to turn us around into a direction of hope. Literally, “hope” your vaccine went well, Phylis. And have a sip of chardonnay for me. Again, cheers. Cheers to all of us.
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Comment by George Choyce — March 5, 2021 @ 10:58 AM
The of courageous sincerity is true integrity 😊🦅🙏🏼🦬❤️. Hope is in the process I believe. I come from a very huge family I try my best to hide from because they are all so protective of me!! But as you know (I hope) I am a Indigenous First Nation Lady. I was the first one from my whole family who stepped up for the vaccine. It actually never bothered me until the day after when I got a sore arm and a bit of a temperature that passed after a Tylenol and me and my husband rested for a few days afterwards (my husband has diabetes and high blood pressure). But for the love of my extended family so they can get vaccinated as well I sucked it up when we got all the inquiring phone calls the next day. So they can get vaccinated as well. But then it should pass after a day or two. We just took an extra day for safety 😊🙏🏼🦬🦅💗. Thank you George and Janet for being “incredibly sincere courageous people with all the integrity possible 😘🙏🏼🦬🦅❤️”.
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Comment by Kathy S.B — March 5, 2021 @ 10:34 PM
But what clearly nice to see George is that without hesitation everyone in you family put their big boy pants on together , created the best plan they could for helping everyone out the best way they could and somehow it worked. It wasn’t always perfect and needed some modifications here and there but all plans need adjustments. In the end it worked and you should be extremely proud of the way it went down.
When I have take over in some capacity I usually have to do it by myself. It’s the biggest I’m looking to move closer to my son now. Covid knocked the crap out of me and scared too very much because I am alone.
What I would like to know if Phylis doesn’t mind a new direction is how all of you handle the anxiety and depression that’s goes along with this horrible illness? It’s knocked me way down several time where I was no longer functioning and the thought of going outside brought on an anxiety attack. It’s gotten better but it’s still there. Anybody thoughts ♥️😘🙏🏻
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Comment by Janet R. — March 6, 2021 @ 10:14 PM
I think anxiety is a natural reaction when you’re in the “fight or flight” mode.
Or just a simple response to life’s vicissitudes. There are so many things and ways to feel anxious. And it rears its head at the most unexpected times.
Janet, I think the idea for an article about anxiety is a good one and I will work on it.
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Comment by Phylis Feiner Johnson — March 7, 2021 @ 9:19 AM
George, always optimistic in the face of heartbreak. That’s one of the many things that make you so special.
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Comment by Phylis Feiner Johnson — March 5, 2021 @ 12:54 PM
Thank you Phylis! Feeling anxious is new for me or maybe I just never paid enough attention before. How others deal with it would be helpful especially if they have had Covid that seems to be the catalyst.
Thank you♥️
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Comment by Janet R. — March 7, 2021 @ 1:22 PM
Janet, I was thinking of an article about anxieties of all sorts. The very concept of anxiety. What causes it and what you can do about it.
I hope that would work for you…
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Comment by Phylis Feiner Johnson — March 7, 2021 @ 1:29 PM
Janet, I found some stuff. A little lame. There didn’t seem to be anyone who went into the psychological effects, in depth.
Top Ten COVID-19 Anxiety Reduction Strategies: https://adaa.org/learn-from-us/from-the-experts/blog-posts/consumer/top-ten-covid-19-anxiety-reduction-strategies
Coronavirus Anxiety: Coping with Stress, Fear, and Worry https://www.helpguide.org/articles/anxiety/coronavirus-anxiety.htm
COVID-19 and Anxiety: https://www.heretohelp.bc.ca/infosheet/covid-19-and-anxiety
The Psychological and Social Impact of Covid-19: New Perspectives of Well-Being: https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fpsyg.2020.577684/full
This isn’t even the tip of the iceberg as you know. But look for a more in-depth article on anxiety that’s coming. (I had more time to do it, because I started it some time ago.)
I hope this helps a smigeon!
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Comment by Phylis Feiner Johnson — March 7, 2021 @ 2:23 PM
Thank you so much Phylis! I will check these out🌹♥️😘
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Comment by Janet R. — March 7, 2021 @ 4:07 PM
Oh George I could not agree with you more! I am glad you and your son and other family members are free from Covid 😁 I am hopefully on my way to recovery as well but it has been very difficult. Having Epilepsy and getting COVID has been explained to me a couple of different ways. A few professionals have said, “It is often very difficult to understand that which one can not see.” That’s true! It depends on the type of Epilepsy you have and how mild a case of Covid you might have. My sister happens to be a nurse and before it was determined that this type of Covid happens to attack the nervous system, she didn’t believe I would be effected at all. Well, I was very effected. Then she and her entire family got it. Needless to say, she is singing a different tune now. All the side effects are pretty much neurologically involved… it’s wicked. Yes, George you are correct in how heartbreaking this illness truly can be. We need to be very in touch with our own bodies and have faith, trust and lots of hope in our Drs. I haven’t been able to see my own Drs. which has made it even more difficult. To be fair, my Dr also goes into nursing homes and is just extra careful and I understand. I will be seeing him tomorrow because I have a negative test now.
Thank you George for always being positive and encouraging hope!
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Comment by Janet R. — March 5, 2021 @ 2:31 PM
You know Janet I wholeheartedly agree with you!!!!! I am SO GREATFUL YOU ARE HEALING NOW!! Albeit VERY SLOWLY, but at least you still with us 😘. It’s TOO BAD SOME MEDICAL PROFESSIONALS choose to ignore and not believe what they see every work day!! I think it has something to do with the ignorance some people feel because of their intelligence and education. Even now my family doctor still would rather me meet with him over the phone. The same holds true for you my friend “George” 😊💕. My son works on a “fly in-fly out workcamp in the boonies! And he pays to get tested two nights before he comes home and if he tests negative he stays away from everyone in the camp in his room until he flys home. Even then he gets tested one more time before he leaves the airport to make sure he’s negative. My oldest daughter (who lives with us) works in a “high risk job” and also gets “quick tested” before she comes home at night and changes her clothes in our porch and instantly showers then sprays our house down like crazy!! But the pain of all sort left us completely numb and dumbfounding!! My youngest daughter one day went to her bubble friends house and ended up getting stuck there for 2 weeks because someone there tested positive while she was there. I swear we literally drove to the road besides where she was and looked at her through the window and visited on the phones every night. Then I would come home and cry myself to sleep, but I swear I NEVER EVER PRAYED SO HARD AND SO MANY TIMES that my Baby would please be okay and not catch Covid-19!! NOW our children and families and most friends have realized their not invincible and should be more careful. My oldest daughter quit her job because she said “I couldn’t live with myself if anyone got COVID-19 on account of my job or me!!”. I told her “that’s quite okay. Just concentrate on school and your turn for vaccination is coming up. Just please get vaccinated 🙏🏼🦬🦅❤️😘”. She agreed.
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Comment by Kathy S.B — March 5, 2021 @ 11:10 PM
Oh Janet, what hell. And what faith you had to have to get through all the many problems presented.
It surely is a time when strength and fortitude are tested. And clearly, you’ve got the goods.
I admire you. Not just for what you went through, but also for who you are.
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Comment by Phylis Feiner Johnson — March 5, 2021 @ 2:39 PM
Thank you Phylis😘 what feels strange and uncharacteristically weird to me is that this virus left me feeling disabled and having Epilepsy my entire life never did.
I always managed to figure out a way to cope with times of not being able to drive, people who suddenly unfriended me for real not on Facebook, a divorce, raising my son on my own…
You all get the picture. Life hands us lemons and crabapples sometimes. I still don’t know what it means when someone says, “You don’t look like an Epileptic.” What are we supposed to look like anyway?? I get it our meds can change our affect but mine hasn’t changed, lucky me😁 but I digress…
In truth, I had strong parents who taught me to accept who I am and whatever is placed in my path. It got harder as I have gotten older but I still believe in myself, I’m just a bit slower now😉 I like to think we Epileptics are gifted in a very special way. I haven’t met one yet that isn’t special in their own unique way and by that I mean we are extremely creative and charming. We are mostly positive and full of hope and positive energy. I think that was done on purpose because most of us are incredibly intuitive as well. So that being said, my dad always told me never to let anyone belittle me and never let anyone doubt my intelligence, they would be making a mistake if they did. LOL♥️ Thanks Dad! If we have nothing else we have each other and a lot of hope for the future, we all need that.🙏🏻♥️
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Comment by Janet R. — March 5, 2021 @ 6:25 PM
Almost forgot….yes, we all have “Vaccine Angels” I absolutely believe in angels. They are always around me, guiding and protecting. We all have them. No doubt about it!! ♥️
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Comment by Janet R. — March 5, 2021 @ 6:41 PM
YES WE DO JANET!! 😘. I chuckled when everyone first had to stay home. After awhile they all began to climb the walls and you name it lol 😂. Finally they asked me “MOM!! Howcome your alright?”. I chuckled and told them “Welcome to my life 😉. Now you have laptops. FaceTime your friends and our family and talk and look at them that way. I do (kind of). Or let’s get busy and fix this house!! My grandma used to tell me anything anyone can do show them you can do it better😉”. So that’s what I did 😘🙏🏼🦅🦬😇❤️😘. Now if anything you know you all can too 😃😘😘😘😘😘. As long as we all have eachother even though some of us go missing every once in awhile 😘. And you know we do have angels I promise!!!!! Because you a very right Janet THANK YOU ALL 🙏🏼🦬🦅😇❤️
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Comment by Kathy S.B — March 5, 2021 @ 11:24 PM
As for growing up and growing strong – I have to admit, mine was a very different experience than yours.
My parents treated me like a pariah – even though my step father was a surgeon and my step mother was a psychologist – to them I was damaged goods.
Epilepsy was my dirty secret, because it had to be. No one would acknowledge it – so despite the walking into walls and falling down the stairs what was I to do?
My father finally took me to a renowned neurologist who confirmed the truth. I had the plague.
It wasn’t until 20 years later that I came out of the closet. Despite the seizures and subsequent accidents, I had somehow managed to push it away.
I never met anyone who had epilepsy until I was 29!
But I digress. All I’m trying to say is grab every living person, every happy moment, every healthy outcome and take authorship of it. You deserve it and it should be yours.
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Comment by Phylis Feiner Johnson — March 5, 2021 @ 8:20 PM
I’m so sorry Phylis but WOW!!! Look what you have done with your life and all that you have had to overcome to get where you are! You are magnificent and I am so proud to be one of the many who get to benefit from your accomplishments. Thank you for all of them🥰
I believe we are always evolving and as such, hopefully, we are also always learning and figuring out what works for us and what doesn’t. In the end, it becomes very important that we become very in touch with what makes our body feel and work best. The feedback we provide to our Drs is all they have to help us the best they know how. I think in my case I had a very estute mother who was also a nurse. She realized what was happening with me and trained me well. Growing up I began to see that as an advantage and still do. I can understand now after being with others who did not grow up as I did how different the experience was for them and you. What is also hard is that in my occupation I have tried often to intervene on the behalf of a child who I believe is having seizures ( absent or petit mal) and I have usually been met with a lot of resistance which not only has angered me but frustrates me. I no longer want any part in today’s education system, it’s horrendous. Common Core is the worst thing that ever happened. There is no creativity anymore. It’s all politics now. I don’t play those games because they aren’t child oriented. My background is Elem. Ed./ Special Ed. and Speech Lang Pathology.
I have a more clinical type experience having started my career in a hospital setting with babies and young children. I saw a lot of things that are not seen in schools that come under the category of hospice care. It was the best experience of my life! I use that experience to keep learning everyday. It was all about life not disability or death. It was about smiling and happiness and what will we accomplish today. What are we grateful for today? When I think about those kids I realize they left little footprints on my heart and they are the gifts no one can ever take away. I dare say Phylis you have many, many such footprints as well and you have more than earned them. Have another glass of wine my dear friend🌹
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Comment by Janet R. — March 5, 2021 @ 9:35 PM
I saw a wonderful lecture last week about the power of smiling and laughter. The power it has over your body, mind and soul. Especially if you are hurting.
I think being able to pass along that gift, along with advocacy is a goal to aspire to. One that you are blessed with.
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Comment by Phylis Feiner Johnson — March 6, 2021 @ 9:54 AM
It is a new day. Well, obviously you made it! Amen, sister. Even with that combination of Covid vaccine and chardonnay and epilepsy, you still made it. Would you please tell us about your experience to encourage those of us who have not received their vaccine yet to go ahead and do it? It is kinda where this all started – the process of getting the vaccine.
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Comment by George Choyce — March 6, 2021 @ 10:10 AM
I’m doing terrifically. I had the Pfizer vaccine with no side-effects. Not even a sore or tender arm. I feel great and grateful.
I wish the same for everyone. Along with a positive outcome.
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Comment by Phylis Feiner Johnson — March 6, 2021 @ 10:17 AM
Awe that reminds me SO MUCH of my great grandparents, great aunties and great uncles, and grandma 🙏🏼🦬🦅😇❤️🙏🏼😘😘😘😘😘. I was all of their baby and they used to tell me ALL THE TIME “You know My girl, BABIES ARE ANGELS!!!!! 😘🙏🏼🦬🦅😇❤️”. Lol 😂 without quite realizing it at the time (in a bit of a bratty manner) I would tell them all “I KNOW 😘😘😘😘😘”. Good thing I was the baby lol 😂
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Comment by Kathy S.B — March 5, 2021 @ 11:34 PM
How you’ll know the COVID-19 vaccines are safe
https://mashable.com/article/covid-19-vaccine-safety-coronavirus/
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Comment by Phylis Feiner Johnson — March 6, 2021 @ 12:48 PM
Thanks for the video on the Covid-19 vaccines. It is promising that there are even more versions of the vaccine on the way. Unfortunately, I had built myself up to go and get the vaccine, and then found out that for now I am still ineligible due to the age qualification in my state. Perhaps others reading this are in the same situation and can take some solace in it. Perhaps some others will know how to legally get around the hurdles so that I can go and get my vaccine. Your example, however, gives encouragement to so many of the rest of us who are on that fence of whether or not to get the vaccine when eligible.
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Comment by George Choyce — March 6, 2021 @ 1:54 PM
I know here in Canada if we immediate family in the high risk category we also get vaccinated due to the fact that we all live together or are caregivers to someone who is high risk. Maybe that will help 🤞🏽💕
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Comment by Kathy S.B — March 6, 2021 @ 3:38 PM
Thank you once again Phylis and ALL who have spoke up 😘. I know I was apprehensive too! Which is another reason I made sure to look all over and ask all types of questions to the neurologist, family doctor, nurses and on and on. But nobody in my family would get it until I did lol 😂 “chickens” lol. But we’re still here my friend and hopefully always will be as long as we can 😊🙏🏼🦬🦅❤️
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Comment by Kathy S.B — March 6, 2021 @ 3:35 PM
We finally got to “1b” status which qualifies those 65 or older for the COVID vaccine. Many states, hospitals and drugstores are still at the 75+ level.
We registered with the county health department and every hospital and drug store in our county.
Ultimately, it was our county health department that came through, after a 6 week wait.
One thought is to apply to your county or hospital, citing a pre-existing condition. Some places will take that into account and some will turn a deaf ear.
For us, like many, it was a simple (and frustrating) waiting game.
But it was worth it.
P,S. Still no side-effects, 26 hours later.
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Comment by Phylis Feiner Johnson — March 6, 2021 @ 2:07 PM
Lol 😂 I must be too sensitive and not strong enough. Oh gees I better work on that summer is coming YAY 😃
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Comment by Kathy S.B — March 6, 2021 @ 3:40 PM
Having just read what all of you have written. I’m like George, I need to go back to the beginning sometimes as a refresher. As a New Yorker, I have found the vaccine information to be incomplete and often conflicting. The first time I filled out a questionnaire about my eligibility I was told I was ineligible but was never asked about underlying conditions! I’m not over 65 so naturally that would make me ineligible and so I waited. Now I see there are questions about underlying conditions and I do qualify but there are no appts available yet! I’m not willing to travel all over the globe either. I’m trying to keep positive that those in charge of this roll out are doing their best and this is is a huge undertaking. I just need to be patient and keep checking the vaccine sites closest to me. I don’t know of anything else to do. Congratulations to all of you who have received your vaccine🙏🏻 May it serve you well and keep you and those around safe and free from harm♥️
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Comment by Janet R. — March 6, 2021 @ 7:54 PM
Having just read what all of you have written. I’m like George, I need to go back to the beginning sometimes as a refresher. As a New Yorker, I have found the vaccine information to be incomplete and often conflicting. The first time I filled out a questionnaire about my eligibility I was told I was ineligible but was never asked about underlying conditions! I’m not over 65 so naturally that would make me ineligible and so I waited. Now I see there are questions about underlying conditions and I do qualify but there are no appts available yet! I’m not willing to travel all over the globe either. I’m trying to keep positive that those in charge of this roll out are doing their best and this is is a huge undertaking. I just need to be patient and keep checking the vaccine sites closest to me. I don’t know of anything else to do. Congratulations to all of you who have received your vaccine🙏🏻 May it serve you well and keep you and those around safe and free from harm♥️
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Comment by Janet R. — March 6, 2021 @ 7:54 PM
Come to Pennsylvania! I’m just a stone’s throw away! 😃
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Comment by Phylis Feiner Johnson — March 6, 2021 @ 8:36 PM
Goodmorning Phylis 😃. Oh thank you for making me feel so welcome and belonged too 🙏🏼🦬🦅😘. Let me get the last vaccine first and then we’ll see if the boarders start to open up 😘🤞🏽. Then we’ll work on the next step 😘😘. Thank you and WE WILL MAKE IT SOME DAY I PROMISE!! 😊🙏🏼🦬🦅❤️😘
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Comment by Kathy S.B — March 7, 2021 @ 9:41 AM
This I’m passing along in the way of trying to be helpful to anyone who wishes to go ahead and get their Covid vaccine: I finally called the Covid hotline to find out if I qualified to get a vaccine due to a certain medical condition (AKA Epilepsy). The woman on the other end of the line responded that I did qualify under the category of “1c”. I am now on a list and they will call me back to get me officially scheduled. Here is the link to the different medical categories that will help you get a vaccine if you would like to go ahead and do so – https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/need-extra-precautions/people-with-medical-conditions.html#serious-heart-conditions
Also, I pass the following informational link along with the understanding that “we’re all in this together.” It is a lot, and kind of dry in some parts, but it gives the most recent information on the Covid vaccine. Here it is – https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/69/wr/mm6950e2.htm?s_cid=mm6950e2_e&ACSTrackingID=USCDC_921-DM44546&ACSTrackingLabel=MMWR%20Early%20Release%20-%20Vol.%2069%2C%20December%2013%2C%202020&deliveryName=USCDC_921-DM44546
Enjoy the rest of the weekend and the upcoming week.
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Comment by George Choyce — March 7, 2021 @ 5:51 PM
George, thank you for thinking of all of us and your generosity in sharing. You’re the best!
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Comment by Phylis Feiner Johnson — March 7, 2021 @ 7:28 PM
Just got my shot, I am a 1c waited, had friend get me the reservation! Not much pain! If you have allergies post shot they make you stay in one area! I just had headache! 20 min later I was fine! I had Jansen shot! Yea! One shot!
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Comment by Toni Robison — March 7, 2021 @ 8:17 PM
The persistence is paying off. I went from the waiting list to an actual appointment on Saturday but can call Thursday or Friday afternoons to see if there were any cancellations. Again, if you have Epilepsy you qualify under the medical category of 1c for an early vaccine. Bring ID, show medical bracelet, and insurance card. No cost to you.
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Comment by George Choyce — March 9, 2021 @ 11:04 AM
GO GEORGE!!!
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Comment by Phylis Feiner Johnson — March 9, 2021 @ 11:45 AM
“One and done.” It really was that easy when it came to getting the Janssen (Johnson and Johnson) Covid-19 Vaccine. The only decision I had to make was which arm I preferred the shot in. The medical person cleaned the spot with rubbing alcohol and said, “You might feel a little stick.” And I swear in two or three seconds it was over with. I was then given a card to confirm my vaccination. It was done in a drive through setting. So I drove in my car to the parking lot for 15 minutes of observation. I finished the paperwork, and turned it over a volunteer. She looked it over and waived me out into the street. That was it – “One and done.” Since I don’t drink anymore, someone have a chardonnay for me, please. Volunteers?
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Comment by George Choyce — March 13, 2021 @ 6:04 PM
I have a bad bout of colitis right now. But I’m rooting for you and real pleased for you. Chardonnay to follow! 😊
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Comment by Phylis Feiner Johnson — March 13, 2021 @ 8:57 PM
Way to go George!!
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Comment by Janet R. — March 13, 2021 @ 9:17 PM
People with epilepsy or disabilities must have a parent in bed with with them or tge disabilities
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Comment by Dr gina Bartlett — June 26, 2022 @ 12:20 AM
May I ask why that is? I’ve had 3 shots and about to go for the 4th. No one has ever said this before. What is tge disabilities if I may ask that as well? I’m unfamiliar with that . Thank you Dr. Bartlett
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Comment by Janet R. — June 26, 2022 @ 6:33 PM