This past week Indian River County residents came by bicycle, bus, and semi-truck to get their COVID-19 vaccination. While a sense of urgency was in the air, so too was a sense of relief and gratitude. Andrea Brandes, TCCH director of nursing, screened patients for known allergies prior to getting their vaccination, “People loved that TCCH was able to give them the vaccine. They were appreciative and grateful and eager to feel safe again.”
Anders Taranger, a retired Marine and Air Force veteran, rides his bike every day so he paired exercise with his shot. “I spent 26 years in the military and I’ve been vaccinated against everything. I was delighted to get the shot and thankful.” Helen Cortez and Jennie Feathers arrived via the St. Francis Manor of Vero Beach bus. Cortez said, “I decided to have the shot because I don’t want my family to worry about me since I live by myself. It will give them peace of mind that I’m safe.” Feathers, who claimed mosquito bites felt worse than the shot, said, “I’m ecstatic [the vaccine] is available and that TCCH is doing this. You’re wonderful.”
Nekita Rolle, TCCH licensed practical nurse and clinical care coordinator, climbed a few steps to administered the vaccine to a semi-truck driver, “I thought it was cool because we’ve never seen a semi at a vaccination event so that was a little different but I didn’t have a problem with it. He was very nice.”
Snowballs –New Orleans Style owner Brad Cadiere even brought lunch for the crew. “I was by Gifford [the past] weekend and saw TCCH in motion and was impressed because I was watching other vaccinations on TV and it wasn’t all good news. I was so impressed. They work hard. I know your job didn’t just start that weekend.”
Treasure Coast Community Health provided their patients with 462 first dose COVID-19 vaccinations on January 28 at the Intergenerational Center, 352 first doses on January 30 at Operation Hope, and 465 second doses on January 31 at the Indian River County fairgrounds. The staff is working overtime to keep Indian River County safe and healthy, fulfilling our mission of health care for all.
