Julie describes her first foray into town for a long time. She also has some excellent advice on the safety of the covid vaccine.
Hello. This is Julie Hayden.
About three weeks ago, I received my COVID vaccine, and was relieved to do so. I planned to visit the Boots store for my dad, and take the opportunity of being in town after so long, to walk around and enjoy some freedom, although I knew only essential shops would be open.
Receiving the jab went fine, although I do wish the nurse had bothered to stand in front of me instead of talking to the back of my head. I did use the occasion as a teaching point though. I signified my lanyard and explained my dementia, pointing out that some of my dementia friends, had experienced additional symptoms of increased brain fogging and disorientation for a couple of days afterwards. He thanked me, informing me that he would pass this back to his team, who were due to meet the next day.
My planned walk didn’t happen unfortunately. The shop had been set out well, with a one way system, but with the constant overheating caused by wearing a mask, I found myself desperate to get outside as soon as possible so I could temporarily remove my mask and breathe in some cooler air. Although the streets were quieter, I still found it disorientating to be around traffic again, and to navigate my way between people along the pavement. I came straight back home.
Since my vaccine, I’ve felt well, but initially with increased tiredness. Over the last week, stories have begun to emerge that some people who have also been given the AstraZeneca vaccine, have developed blood clots. However, given the commonality of blood clots in the general population, I choose not to fall prey to the scaremongering of certain sections of the media. Even if there is a slightly increased risk of this side effect with the vaccine, the benefits far outweigh the negatives of being exposed to the deadly coronavirus.
Please, whatever vaccine you are offered, take it. For your, and everyone’s, sake.
Thank you.
