Stacy Windon was a recent patient in Sheridan Memorial Hospital. Below is her experience in her own words.
My fiancé and I both work at VA. When the COVID-19 vaccinations became available, I was adamant he receive the vaccine due to his COPD. I was insistent because I thought it was easier for him to get sick and that he could be extremely sick if he contracted COVID.
At the time, I didn’t get vaccinated, I was hesitant because the vaccine had not been FDA approved, I was leery; plus, I was healthy.
In early August (4th & 5th) we both tested positive for COVID. The difference in our experiences is that he was back to work by the 9th due to being vaccinated; I was in the hospital by the end of the week and had to stay for nine (9) days. I was shaking, I couldn’t breathe, I couldn’t move, I was not always coherent; it was the scariest time in my life.
Everyone at the hospital was wonderful; the kitchen staff, housekeepers, nurses, CNAs and the doctors. They treated me with respect, never like I was in danger, and I learned a lot from all of them about this virus.
Now, based on instructions from my physician, I have to wait 60 days until I can get the vaccine. In the meantime, I have to make sure I don’t get sick again.
I’m sitting here at home, I can’t get a good breath, I’m on oxygen, I can’t really get around my house. I tried cleaning house recently and the next day I paid for it. I’m carrying a 50 foot air hose everywhere I go in my house.
My advice to those who are questioning the vaccine, if you’re scared, research it. Listen to other people who have had it. Please, please ask questions and make an informed decision. This is not minor by any means. Stacy Windon