There is Only One Way Out...
On 1 September, I will return to the Austin Hospital to have my second dose of the AstraZeneca vaccine. So, joining the many millions of Australians who have both doses of a vaccine to combat COVID-19. I am confident that it will greatly reduce the chances of infection and falling ill, and more importantly by not becoming a positive case, I will not transmit the disease to others.
We were despondent when we heard of the extension to the lockdown, I am sure many felt a heavy heart, something experienced by most. However, there were a number of things I did feel positive about - that I have around me a loving family, dedicated colleagues, supportive parents and courageous students. Also, I took great comfort I had already taken the first step in playing my part in stopping the spread and was only a few weeks away from that next and final step. Yes, there is much that I can still do, need to do, and will do - but getting vaccinated is singularly the most important personal act towards ending the pandemic.
At Hume we talk of, and indeed teach, what it means to be community-minded. One way to achieve this is by fulfilling civic duty or meet one’s responsibilities for the collective good. I know most in our School community share my beliefs and are getting vaccinated. I know there are also others who, for a myriad of different reasons, are not.
What we are seeing around the world right now confirms that which history has taught us, there is only one way out… and that’s vaccination.