Everyone has been shouting at us to "GET BOOSTED". Boris has bawled it, the NHS has bellowed it, and even countless TV ad's with Chris Whitty have gently pleaded with us (above). Our problem was that we desperately wanted it, but those at the 'sharp end' didn't want us to have it.
Because we were both double-jabbed in France, they simply said "No" (non). What a bunch of idiots.
When we returned to Blighty in October, the authorities quite rightly demanded to see proof of our being double-jabbed. That proof was accepted without question by the government, and we travelled as planned. Since then, that same proof seems to have caused a problem for the NHS. Frankly we were getting extremely pissed off by their reluctance to vaccinate two vulnerable natives (with ALL the required paperwork).
So, having been 'pinged' on numerous occasions by the NHS, we decided to ignore the web sites, the 119 number, and our GP's and their non-existent help and promises, and try again. We discovered a newly established one day 'walk-in booster centre' in Hove. All we needed (they said) was proof of being double-jabbed, and our NHS number; absolutely no problem! The opening hours were clearly indicated, so off we went.
Amazingly, having queued for about an hour in the cold, fog, and drizzle (that's me with a plastic shopping bag on my head), I filled-in a form, got ushered into a small cubicle, and the job was done in minutes. All that previous bloody fuss for nothing. I am now 100% invincible. How easy was that NHS?
p.s. I read somewhere that Prof' Chris Whitty (in video) was at Windlesham House, the Sussex Prep' School where I used to teach. I wonder if I ever taught him? He looks about the right age, but I don't remember the name. Any failings in his Art or Latin skills may be my fault.
That's brilliant.
ReplyDeleteWe're very happy. I have a slight soreness in my arm this morning, but otherwise all is well.
DeleteStylish headwear...you could start a trend!
ReplyDeleteMy dear wife took the photo. I have no shame these days!
DeleteYou are the only couple in the world to return to live in England who have been double jabbed overseas and now want a booster. No?
ReplyDeleteWe were boosted today. See tomorrow's post. (Yes, I know today and tomorrow are problematic)
It felt like we were the only ones, we were made to feel like outcasts!
DeleteThat's very good news! We both got boosted just recently and it gives us extra peace of mind.
ReplyDeleteYes, just that little more protection. Now, of course, they are talking of a second booster in a few months time. I suppose we'll have to get used to it.
DeleteWell done. Now you will have the challenge that faces many of us of getting your EU and UK records combined in order to have a pass for travel, hotels etc. Life is never dull but for now feels safer.
ReplyDeleteWhy do they make things so complicated, we're all Europeans, even if we're not a member of the EU any more. It's in everyone's interest to have a common aim.
DeleteWe got boosted here at the beginning of the month. I will never understand the reluctance of people to do that. Here, there, there are no doctors giving the shots. You can't get them at the hospital. We had to make an appointment at a drug store.
ReplyDeleteOur initial first two jabs in France were done by our pharmacist. He was a bit nervous at first, but it doesn't take a genius.
DeleteYou look very dashing in your plastic bag hat. Was it from "Lidl"? I thought you'd go for a "Harrods" bag. Good to hear that you and Madame Magnon have had your rocket boosters fitted.
ReplyDeleteM & S Christmas bag. Middle England. Yes boosters are all go!
DeleteGood to hear you've only experienced a sore arm. Hope it stays that way. x
ReplyDeleteI feel a bit as if someone's punched my arm, but I'm not complaining.
DeleteHold an icepack to your arm ... it definitely helps relieve the soreness. Been there, done that!
DeleteI've taken a dose of Champagne instead.
DeleteVery resourceful head attire. I've been known to wear a Kwik Save carrier bag on my head when required.
ReplyDeleteAny port in a storm. At my age I no longer bother about what I look like.
DeleteWell done Cro! Peace of mind for the New Year.
ReplyDeleteGood to have it done!
DeleteWhat a delightful headpiece you're sporting. LOVE it. I am so glad you got your booster. Here only the medical frontliners have had their boosters so far. Happy New Year to you and Lady Magnon. Jo
ReplyDeleteThe authorities have been very insistent that we all have our boosters, which is why we were so frustrated at being rejected. All done now; thank goodness.
DeleteWhen I had my first two jabs I had no after effects ….. didn’t think he’d even given it but, the booster really made my arm ache. Many people I know said the same ! It was better by the following day. Glad you sorted your boosters. XXXX
ReplyDeleteMy arm has been aching today, but not enough to complain about.
DeleteAs it was likely you would have to queue and the weather was known to you I am surprised you ended up having to use a carrier bag to shelter you. At least you found a walk-in centre that worked as a walk-in centre and you got jabbed.
ReplyDeleteWhen we set off from home, about 30 mins before, the weather was fine. I had no problem with wearing a bag on my head.
DeleteWell done. My arm felt as though it had been punched the third time too. Hopefully that's the only reaction.
ReplyDeleteYou must feel relieved
Very much so, the waiting went on too long.
DeleteI am utterly mesmerised by the headgear - I fear you may start a fashion.
ReplyDeleteMy wife said the whole queue was laughing. I can't imagine why; I'd rather look foolish and be dry.
DeleteFantastic sophisticated bag! Fortnum & Mason or Harrods? Or do they not do plastic bags? It is not Aldi or Lidl by the look of it.
ReplyDeleteYou probably don't realize (realise?) that you are an influencer now.
Mind you my husband was wearing a similar bag on his head walking in the p...... rain in Verona near the Romeo and Juliet house. His daughter didn't want to be seen with him and she was amazed that I did.
Anyway, happy New Year already to you. (busy busy tomorrow) and thanks for all your enjoyable blogs this year.
Just an M & S Christmas bag I'm afraid. Our Fortnum's hamper would have looked too silly. Happy new year Guusje.
DeleteBoosted and stylish! Bravo!
ReplyDeleteThat's me; down to a tee! Boosted and Stylish.
DeleteHappy New Year to you; you are closer than I am. And, the first of many following jabs to you; more and more invincible.
ReplyDeleteIf only that was true. I see it simply as part of a very long journey.
DeleteGetting your “jab” is a good way to start the new year.
ReplyDeleteI hope it's a good omen.
DeleteYou improvise very well! The inventive headgear did the job and despite the process you found a way to get your booster. Sometimes we have to work the system to ultimately make it effective.
ReplyDeleteAnd all we wanted to do, was to do what they wanted us to do.
DeleteI do have to tell you. I once new an elderly man, extremely well to do. His wife was the daughter of the man who was handpicked by Henry Ford to start the Henry Ford Hsopital in Detroit. She was very high society, and really took great pains to make sure that everyone was aware of her social status. 'Mike' was also the son of a rich industrialist. He was very much the opposite. He horrified his family. He was a birder, and would spend hours in the woods. Mrs. W confided in me once that he embarrassed her so badly by not caring one whit about how he was dressed. He once returned home in front of her friends in his ragged canvas pants and flannel shirt and (gasp!) his belt had broken, so he had tied a rope around his waist. When you count your blessings, Lady M needs to be at the top of your list~
ReplyDeleteAt least she laughs with me, not at me.
DeleteI love the headwear. I have my booster booked at my local chemist in two weeks time and if there is a further booster to be had later I will line up for that as well. Far better than to die from something needlessly when a few jabs could save me.
ReplyDelete