Bouquet: I just received my COVID-19 vaccination, the first, and I’m so very grateful.

The site of the Dickinson County Fairgrounds was run like a well-oiled machine, with kind and helpful individuals answering questions and guiding everyone through.

The shot itself was painlessly administered by a retired nurse. When I thanked her, I felt very emotional to know I was one step closer to a life without fear. Having many underlying health conditions, this past year has been very frightening and isolating.

The nurse was wonderful … she said it felt good to be able to give back this way. She said many people felt emotional when they received their vaccination, as well as feeling hopeful for the first time in a long time.

I want to thank all who volunteered at and organized this vaccination site. You are deeply appreciated and an important part of our community and country moving into a future of hope, hugs, and families being together again.

I encourage everyone to take this painless and important step so that we may all live without fear of COVID-19 taking our loved ones from us or suffering with long-term effects of the disease.