A holiday miracle that comes in a vial | Opinion – nj.com

By Dennis W. Pullin

It was a year ago this week that the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine arrived at New Jersey hospitals like a much anticipated holiday miracle.

We had visions of finally ending the unsettling pandemic that had gripped us with fear for the better part of 2020.

With awe and respect for the science that ushered in Americas most historic vaccine drive, we stored the early precious vaccine vials in special freezers and referred to them as liquid gold.

I recall that, in the beginning, securing a vaccine appointment was like scoring seats to the hottest concert or sporting event in town. Our call center phone lines crashed at one point, never designed to accommodate so many people wanting a health appointment at once. It was promising and exhilarating.

As we headed into 2021, we were hopeful to be on our way to stopping the spread of this virus and the unconscionable loss of life.

As I reflect on all that has transpired this past year, I find it well worth pausing to celebrate the countless number of lives that have been saved by the courageous efforts of our health care providers and the remarkable impact of these safe and effective vaccines. For this, we truly can be grateful.

Sadly, however, today we face nearly the same daunting surge of hospitalizations as we did a year ago. Only this time, our health care workers are depleted in numbers and wearier in spirit. Many are asking how it is possible that we have a safe and proven solution to the sickness and death, yet, are still in such a state of alarm. Too many Americans remain unvaccinated and, perhaps worse, unfazed by the consequences of their decision.

The future of the COVID-19 pandemic is in our hands, literally. Its not just about whether health care workers keep showing up or whether most people take the right precautions. The future depends on all of us and what we do collectively for ourselves, for our families, for our colleagues and our communities. Its not an either/or moment; its an all-in-together moment.

I have come to learn that the heartlessness of this virus is that there is no real relief. The virus can endure and keep targeting people. It can change and get stronger. Its here to stay until we decide, through our own actions and sense of collective responsibility, to finally stop it. No one is exempt from COVIDs potential devastation and therefore everyone is vulnerable.

The COVID vaccines have undergone the most intensive safety evaluation in U.S. history. The risk vs. benefit equation is clear, and our best path forward to our new normal or next possible is for each of us to be vaccinated.

I know many are looking forward to the holidays and anticipating fun family gatherings and overdue reunions with friends and colleagues. As you think about finding the best gift to bring, I implore you to think beyond what to get and, instead, consider what to do. Perhaps the greatest present we can give those we love is to show up vaccinated a demonstration of an intentional community-centered, life-saving action.

Lets use this season to rewrite the ending of this public health story once and for all. Roll up your sleeves so you can reach out your arms and embrace the new year with renewed hope in humanity.

Dennis W. Pullin is president and CEO of Virtua Health. To date, the South Jersey health care organization has administered almost half a million COVID-19 vaccine doses.

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A holiday miracle that comes in a vial | Opinion - nj.com