Some Thoughts After Losing Sleep Over the COVID-19 Vaccine

I'm writing this because I'm sure I'm not the only person who has lost sleep, one way or another, over getting the COVID-19 vaccine.

Several weeks ago, I managed to get an appointment to get the vaccine at the Atlantic City Convention Center (that happened today -- more on that in a moment). While very happy to have a place in line, I did have some reservations about getting it but since it was many weeks away, I didn't give much thought about it. And then as last weekend approached, it started to sink-in.

Now, I'm not an anti-vax'er. I'm not one to think COVID-19 is a big scam. I am, however, someone who likes to overthink just about everything.

My debates were this (usually all at the same time): I've never had a flu shot, so why should I get this shot? Is one vaccine better than another? If I don't go to my appointment, I know I won't be able to get another one anytime soon. But Murphy says more vaccines will be coming out and it'll be easier to get one soon. Should I wait? But these vaccines were rushed - are they safe? There's gotta be a ton of checks and balances in place to make sure they're safe... blah, blah, blah. You get the idea.

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If you're like me, you may have or are currently losing sleep over it all. Try not to.

The process itself this morning, like many have said, was one of the most efficient things I have ever been a part of. My appointment was at 8:45 -- they tell you to show-up 15 minutes early, which I did. I was done and driving away by 9:05. 35 minutes, in and out -- done. I waited in three lines this morning and none of them ever stopped moving. Even the part where you sit there for 15 minutes to make sure you feel OK was excellently managed.

So, I write this in case you are stressed about the vaccine -- take a deep breath, relax, and do what you feel is right. We've all been through a lot over the past year. One year ago, none of us could have imagined that we would be happy to go to a mass-vaccination site.

And a note to everyone who is working to keep the vaccines flowing at the convention center: job well done. Thank you.