My vaccine story: Monday (yesterday), like many others in BC, I found out the AstraZeneca vaccine became available to people aged 40 and older.

Appointments can be made directly through pharmacies - online booking is recommended.

I called my pharmacy first thing this morning. They’re a family owned pharmacy in the DTES: no website or online forms.

A familiar voice answered. When I gave my name she said “I know you” and “you’re DB2 (person with permanent disability recognized by government) come today.”

I requested an appointment for my wife at the same time.

A few hours later we’re getting our first vaccine. My pharmacist did not misgender my wife, and got their name right, even put a note on their name in the immunization database.

She carefully explained the additional (and statistically low) risks I have because of my meds and health conditions.

Then my pharmacist says, “We’re happy you’re here. We want our community to be safe.”

I cried. The extent of her care for me!

I’ve been with this pharmacy for 27 years. Through countless meds. Through times when other DTES pharmacies turned me away for “double dipping” prescriptions. They’ve even helped me appeal to have non-covered meds paid by BC.

My vaccine story is a story of kindness.