181,000 vaccines administered at West 5th clinic
181,000 of anything is a lot. 181,000 vaccines administered in 14 months is extraordinary – but our incredible staff at the West 5th vaccine clinic did just that! Before closing our doors on Friday, we’re sending sincere gratitude to everyone who has helped keep our community safe by administering life-saving vaccines since December 2020.
Vaccines are still widely available by appointment or walk-in at clinics across the city: https://www.hamilton.ca/coronavirus/covid-19-vaccination.
Read some reflections from our staff below:
“It has been our pleasure to contribute what we could to the cause of conquering COVID. We have been fortunate to work with so many great, enthusiastic people along the way, which made this very difficult time meaningful. This truly has shown it takes a village!” - Elaine Chiarelli and Linda Mills, Registered Nurses & Vaccine Clinic Leads
“It has been a difficult 2 years but it was also one of the most rewarding experiences collaborating with everyone working in the vaccine clinic that I would have never had the chance to work with otherwise. I have to admit, frustration set in at times with the ever changing rules and demands, but seeing people eager to receive the vaccine and express gratitude for the work that everyone is doing is pure joy! Being a part of this endeavor truly is an experience.” - Nilda Hibionada, Pharmacy Manager & Vaccine Clinic Pharmacy Lead
“Opening the vaccine clinic marked a major shift from playing defense against the COVID-19 virus to offense. Administering the vaccines felt like we were offering hope, especially to the most vulnerable among us, and it was very exciting. Every day that we were open felt like we were one day closer to ending this pandemic and moving forward to resuming ‘regular life’ once again.” - Richard Orlicki, Manager, COVID 19 Vaccination Clinic
“What I find it most meaningful was the patients that I encountered are delightful as they get their vaccines, shared life stories and told corny jokes. Most of all, I admire patient’s strength and unlimited courage in the face of hardships. Working at the vaccine clinic and having to contribute to the community is a privilege. It gave me a sense of ease to know that there are people out there that wants to make a difference and choose to be part of the solution in ending this pandemic. I remember one patient whom I vaccinated pulled me close and said, ‘You are going to go somewhere. Keep it up girl. God is watching you.’ I struggled to hold back my tears. At that moment I knew I was doing the right thing. Helping one another to rise to the higher levels, simply by bandaging and pouring out of love. It is the greatest healing energy a human can provide.” - Leah Joy Hilario, Registered Practical Nurse