WALLINGFORD, Conn. — Hartford Healthcare opened a Mega Vaccination clinic at the Oakdale Theatre in Wallingford, with the ability to vaccinate up to 1,000 people per day.
Starting March 1, Connecticut residents aged 55 and older, along with state educators are eligible to receive their Covid-19 vaccine. This includes, teachers, paraprofessionals, custodial staff, food service providers, bus drivers, in-school administrative staff, and childcare providers.
Dr. Camelia Lawrence, Director of Breast Surgery with Hartford Healthcare said "I think the vaccine really offers us hope. It's light at the end of the tunnel. As Healthcare providers, we were first in line to be vaccinated, so now it's our turn to give back and ensure that every American has access to the Covid-19 vaccine.
Patients waited patiently to get their vaccines, bringing themselves one step closer to normalcy. Westbrook resident Joe Boccia is relieved to get his vaccine, so he can continue to visit his 8 year old Grandson, Dominic. "We spend a lot of time with him. He has special needs. It's been a rough road helping bring up our grandson. He had to quarantine twice from school. I can't wait to get through this" says Boccia. "It's a big relief"
Jacqueline Sweeney was at the Oakdale receiving her second dose of the vaccine, a moment she's been anxiously awaiting. "I will have a little bit more freedom even though we're wearing a mask, which is fine. At least I can be in the presence of family and I can go shopping which I like to do. It’s just wonderful to be able to realize that I’m going to be able to have a little more contact with people" said Sweeney.
The planned schedule is as follows:
- March 1, 2021: Expands to age group 55 to 64
- March 22, 2021: Expands to age group 45 to 54
- April 12, 2021: Expands to age group 35 to 44
- May 3, 2021: Expands to age group 16 to 34