Ryan Lythall
On April 27, I received my first dose of the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine.
For the most part, everything went smoothly. However, there were a few hiccups, particularly affecting those with disabilities who are planning to get vaccinated at a community centre or related space.
My appointment was at Routhier Community Centre, which is located in the ByWard Market. I don’t remember ever being there before and had no idea how well my wheelchair would fit. My chair is considered to be one of the bigger models at least in Centretown.
My appointment was for 4:35 p.m., Para Transpo picked me up around 4:10 p.m. and I arrived early. When I got there, I was asked to get in line outside. Luckily, it was warm and sunny.
What if it had been raining or snowing or was very cold out? What would have happened? Would I have been allowed to wait inside or would I have had to reschedule? I know many people with disabilities who can’t be outside if it’s cold or raining, myself included.
When it was my turn, I easily entered the building. But I quickly encountered problems making myself understood. I was asked to identify myself and answer questions by two different people, both of whom were behind a glass or plastic barrier. For those using a wheelchair, or with a disability affecting communication, the barrier makes it more difficult for the staff to hear or understand responses, especially when spoken through a mask. Luckily, I never travel alone.
My advice to others with disabilities is to bring someone with you or write down your information before you arrive. In this case, write your name, address, phone number, date of birth, name of your doctor, your emergency contact information, as well as answers to the COVID-19-related questions. Remember to bring your health card and your appointment notification.
When my number was called, I rolled up to the nurse, who asked me a few questions, told me about the shot and asked if I had questions. I said no. We waited a few minutes due to a tech issue on their end. Then she told me to take a deep breath and administered the shot.
After you get the shot, you’re asked to wait for 15 minutes in a waiting area to make sure you’re okay. After 15 minutes, you raise your hand and one of the staff will come over to sign you out.
I have some issues with the sign-out procedure. What if you can’t raise your hand or you’re non-verbal? Do they have a system in place to make sure that they can come to you at the end of your waiting period?
When my 15 minutes ended, a staff member went directly to my caregiver and asked if I was okay. They should have asked me directly. I’m the one who got the vaccine, not my caregiver. I would suggest that more education of the staff at city-run events needs to be done to ensure that people with disabilities are respected, especially if it’s medically related.
My only side effect was a sore arm for a few days. My second dose is scheduled for August. Please get vaccinated when you’re able to and if you can.
Follow Ryan on Twitter: @rolling_enigma