Tell Me Why

To the Editor:

These words, “Tell Me Why,” from a Bobby Vinton 1950s song, keep playing in my head as I once again try to get on a list for the Phase 1B COVID-19 vaccine. If you are 65+, it may be playing in your head also. I know I am frustrated that here in Fayette County and especially in La Grange the feeling of no coordination to get the shot to 65+ is overwhelming. When I call to get on a list, this is the response: St. Mark’s asks that you leave your name, birthdate, and phone number; however, there is no confirmation that you are actually on the list or how you will be contacted when the vaccine arrives. HEB has no list and tells you they won’t start a list until the vaccine arrives and to just keep checking the website. When that happens, a huge number of folks will be trying to get on. What happens if you are lucky enough to get on? Do you just show up and wait in line, will you be called, and will they start with the oldest and work down the list?

There are many more “Tell Me Why “ questions:

1. Do we need an appoint ment after we are on the list?

2. Why don’t our doctors get the vaccine and help with the inoculation?

3. How do those with no access to computers or just aren’t familiar with how to go online get on the list?

4. Who orders the vaccine and decides how much is needed?

5. Why do seniors have to travel out of their county to wait in a long line to get the shot?

6. Here is the most disturbing information I have learned. Some citizens, not in Phase 1B, were called and offered the vaccine. I’m not blaming the ones who got that shot, but for our 65+ who do qualify and are desperately waiting for the shot, this is what they are dealing with. It is another example of lack of coordination.

Every time I call to get on that elusive list, these words from that song are vibrating in my head:

“I keep fooling my heart.” “Tell Me Why,” please, “Tell Me Why.”

Patty Reid

La Grange