By Gabriella Payne
Waking up in the morning on Thursday 9 September, I could tell it was going to be a good day.
The sun was shining, the birds were chirping and I could hardly contain my excitement – today was the big day I’d been waiting for, my first Covid jab!
To say I’ve been itching to get vaccinated would be a huge understatement.
Like many of us, I’ve struggled to keep my anxiety at bay over the past 12 months, going about daily life as best I could with the ever present threat of Covid looming in the air.
Being in my 20s, I ummed and ahhed as to what the right decision for me would be – should I hold out for Pfizer, which is recommended for my age group, or should I ignore the federal government’s confusing advice and just book in for the AstraZeneca?
There were many factors to consider, but there was never any doubt in my mind that vaccination was the way to go and I couldn’t wait to roll up my sleeve.
After chatting with my doctor, I decided to go for the option that seemed right for me and booked in for my Pfizer appointment as soon as I could, and after waiting patiently for my turn in line, the day finally arrived.
As I walked into the little vaccination booth at one of the state’s mass vaccination hubs that morning, I could feel a huge weight being lifted off my shoulders.
It was like a wave of relief washing over me; I was half way there.
Half way to getting back to normality, to seeing my friends for a pint at the pub, to going on an overseas holiday with my partner, to giving my Mum a huge hug.
The process was smooth, easy and I now feel better than ever.
The amazing staff at the vaccination hub ensured I felt safe, comfortable and looked after the entire time – they are the real heroes, working tirelessly day in and day out to get us to where we need to be to get out of lockdowns for good.
Getting vaccinated is a small thing we can all do to protect ourselves, our loved ones and our communities from this vicious virus – and I’m already counting down the days to my next jab.
