‘I jumped at the chance’ – Patients at Sheffield doctors’ surgery become among first in city to get coronavirus vaccine
It wasn’t delivered by Santa, but patients at one Sheffield doctors’ surgery received an early Christmas present to cherish today.
Hundreds of elderly and vulnerable patients at Manor Park Medical Centre on Harborough Avenue were among the first in the city to receive the Pfizer vaccine against Covid-19.
The surgery had informed them last week by text or letter, and they duly came in their droves on Wednesday, all keen to play their part in the national vaccination effort.
Brian Jenkinson, 81, from Manor, said he was ‘very happy’ to be one of the first to get the vaccine.
He said: “We go shopping and take the dog for a walk but you can’t do anything else can you. The pubs are all shut.
“I just hope everything gets back to normal so we can get back to living.”
Michael Concreve, aged 83, from Arbourthorne, said he ‘couldn't wait’ to have the jab.
He said: “We have 17 grandchildren and great-grandchildren. They are growing up and we are not seeing them.
“The young lass Charlotte who gave me my injection was brilliant. I couldn't believe how easy it was - I never even felt it.”
Patricia Warburton, 81, from Arbourthorne, said she ‘jumped at the chance’ of the jab.
“I live on my own and so it has not been good,” she said.
“I am looking forward to getting out again and feeling a bit more free. People shouldn’t worry about it at all.”
And Audrey Heeley, 84, from Gleadless, said she had ‘no concerns whatsoever’ about having the vaccine.
She said: “It has been an awful year for everybody, not just us golden oldies.
“I understand why the restrictions have been in place but I am still fed up of them. I am looking forward to going to the theatre again.”
Alun Windle, Chief Nurse at NHS Sheffield Clinical Commissioning Group, said: “I know this will be welcome news to everyone in the city, we’re asking people to be patient. It will take time before everyone can be vaccinated.
“We’ll contact you when it's the right time to get your jab so please don’t contact your practice or drop in.”
In these confusing and worrying times, local journalism is more vital than ever. Thanks to everyone who helps us ask the questions that matter by taking out a digital subscription or buying a paper. We stand together. Nancy Fielder, editor.
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