Chapter 1: The Reality of Vaccination

Recently, I made a trip to my neighborhood pharmacy for yet another booster shot. Experts, from the president down to local health authorities, have stressed the importance of remaining alert and proactive during these times.

Consequently, I was more than willing to roll up my sleeve and contribute to the collective effort. This marked the fifth time within a little over a year that I had placed my trust in medical science. The first two vaccinations occurred in early 2021, followed by a booster shortly thereafter, another in April when it was recommended, and finally last week, when the latest booster targeting the predominant omicron variant became available.

I have to say, being a senior citizen has its perks. They prioritize our age group, ensuring we receive timely vaccines.

My entire family is fully vaccinated, and even my grandson, D, has had his first two doses. He’s scheduled for a booster in about a month. Interestingly, I think I might hold the family record for the most vaccinations. Did you know that after five COVID inoculations, the nurse has to flip your vaccination card to record the additional dose? There's hardly any space left on my official record for these efforts against the virus.

During my appointment last week, we discussed the future of vaccination. “I hope these boosters will become a routine part of our fall health regimen, alongside the flu shot,” she mentioned. “No need for extensive records; just get it done with your annual flu shot (which I also had). Staying protected annually will soon feel as natural as breathing.”

And honestly, I feel quite invincible at the moment. Fortunately, COVID-19 has yet to affect me personally; perhaps there’s something to this science after all.

But you can probably guess what’s coming next—I might be tempting fate by feeling so secure. Fingers crossed, as the saying goes.

La Familia Nelson has gone to great lengths to remain safe and healthy. So, what are we to make of President Biden’s recent declaration that the “pandemic” is over?

“If you look around, nobody is wearing masks,” Biden remarked during an interview with Scott Pelley on “60 Minutes.” That doesn’t align with my experience, Joe. Just last week at my book club, several members wore face coverings. “Everyone appears to be in good shape. I think it’s changing. This is a prime example,” he added.

I’m neither a scientist nor a political advisor anymore, but it might be wise for Uncle Joe to reconsider those statements.

Let’s examine the facts, as Dr. Anthony Fauci advises.

Hospitalizations due to COVID-19 remain alarmingly high, with over 30,000 individuals admitted nationwide just last week. Additionally, more than 400 Americans continue to die from this relentless virus daily.

If that doesn’t qualify as a pandemic, I’m not sure what does. I’m grateful that my loved ones and I are taking necessary precautions to stay safe.

Let’s not forget that Uncle Joe and Dr. Jill recently contracted the virus themselves, despite being double-vaccinated and triple-boosted—just like me! They also experienced rebound COVID, testing negative after treatment, only to be reinfected later.

It's important to remember that the United States is still under an emergency health order first established in early 2020 and renewed as recently as July. Public health officials confirm that while COVID rates are declining, we still need to stay alert. The World Health Organization echoes this sentiment.

“We are not at the finish line yet, but we can see it,” stated the WHO’s Director-General. “Now is not the time to ease up.”

I may not be a runner, but I definitely understand the sentiment. And pardon my mixed metaphors, Uncle Joe, but I still see the haunting shadows of the past two years in my rearview mirror. I’d prefer to keep them there—no need to invite those troublesome COVID variants back under your watch, Mr. President.

Despite my light-hearted comparisons, I remain cautious. I anticipate we’ll hear soon that the president’s comments were informal and intended to foster a spirit of optimism d