As a pediatrician, I’ve witnessed how children react to vaccinations before starting kindergarten. Each child’s response can vary based on their temperament. My daughter cried out for a wheelchair after her shot, while my son, teary-eyed, expressed his dismay by saying, “Why did you let her do that to me?” My other son stormed out, shouting, “I didn’t like that!”
Every child leaves with a band-aid on their thigh, a reminder of their experience and the protection it offers. They sometimes leave cradled in their parents’ arms or walk out proudly, often keeping their band-aids on for days as proof of their bravery.
This week, I received my first COVID vaccine. As I approached the entrance, I was surrounded by hospital staff who have tirelessly worked throughout this pandemic. When I rounded the corner, they erupted in cheers, donned festive hats, and celebrated with balloons, while Johnny Mathis’s voice filled the air with “The Most Wonderful Time of the Year.”
To my surprise, I found myself tearing up as I walked in. After receiving my shot and my bright yellow band-aid, I sat down to wait and reflected on my emotions, wondering if I was the only one feeling this way.
In the medical field, we are trained to manage emergencies and remain composed amidst chaos. We learn to compartmentalize our feelings, moving from one patient in distress to the next, often without taking a moment to process each situation. Navigating this pressure for a single shift is challenging, but sustaining it for months can be overwhelming. We have seen doctors passionately urging the public to recognize the seriousness of the pandemic as hospital beds filled and hope dwindled. Nurses have faced the emotional toll of caring for dying patients, often unable to set aside their feelings any longer.
One of my colleagues also shed tears after her vaccine. She expressed, “A weight is lifted. It feels exhilarating and groundbreaking. In that moment, I realized how much stress we’ve all been under.”
I left the vaccination site with my neon yellow band-aid, joined by countless colleagues sporting the same symbol. The next day, much like a child, I hesitated to remove my band-aid. It stood for everything we’ve endured, a sign of relief at being vaccinated and a beacon of hope for the end of this pandemic.
During the spring, my husband and I listened to Dr. Fauci speak, which moved us deeply. Despite the division and misinformation surrounding us, hearing a respected physician reminded us of the many brilliant minds working tirelessly for the greater good.
My tears reflected grief for the countless lives lost to COVID-19. They were also tears of gratitude for the goodness that persists in our world. I felt thankful for the cheering staff at my hospital, marking what we hope is the beginning of the end. I am grateful for the scientists who developed the vaccine so swiftly and for everyone involved in the process—from researchers to nurses, transportation workers to teachers, and beyond. Their dedication has kept our society functioning during these trying times.
So yes, I cried when I received my COVID vaccine. Unlike the tears of fear and anger I’ve seen in my pediatric office, mine were filled with relief, gratitude, and respect for all those who rise each day to fulfill their roles. My band-aid is a symbol of protection for myself and my loved ones against COVID in the future, and perhaps, next year will bring an end to the isolation and fear we’ve faced.
For more insights, you can check out this blog post that discusses related topics. If you’re interested in exploring more about the journey of couples looking to conceive, visit Make a Mom’s site. Additionally, Science Daily offers a wealth of information on health and fertility issues.
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Summary:
Receiving my COVID vaccine stirred unexpected emotions, reminiscent of the children’s reactions I observe in my pediatric practice. Surrounded by cheering staff and a sense of hope, I reflected on the collective stress endured by healthcare professionals throughout the pandemic. My tears symbolized grief for lives lost, gratitude for those who worked tirelessly to bring the vaccine to life, and relief for the protection it offers. My bright yellow band-aid serves as a reminder of this journey, encapsulating hope for the future.