The Event

The décor was a simple outdoor tent and a directional sign, the dress code was more parka and boots than black tie, but in my book, it was the premier event of the season. I’ve been managing events -- some featuring Senators and future presidents -- since my early 20s (so, a long time), but earlier this month, a vaccine clinic for 200 people with developmental disabilities became the most important event I’ve ever organized. 

The novel Coronavirus is dangerous, but people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) face an increased risk; they are three times more likely to die of COVID-19 than others, according to a study cited by Disability Scoop newsletter (Nov. 16, 2020). Before the pandemic, many adults with IDD were active members of their community, working at grocery stores, volunteering at schools, running their own small businesses, and enjoying all their local communities have to offer. But that all changed when the world shut down. Many were furloughed, their outings were curtailed, and their support personnel became barely recognizable under layers of PPE.

The vaccine was a ray of hope, and under Maryland’s guidelines, people with IDD were counted as group 1B. Families quickly signed up and despite the fact that the pharmacist bringing the vaccine was 45 minutes late, it all went smoothly. There was excitement and some trepidation, one young man asking that his dad stay with him through the process. But the smiles of those proudly wearing their “VacSeen” bracelets, posing in front of “I got my vaccine!” posters after their shots said it all. As did the grateful messages from parents received that day, including one whose subject line was simply THANK YOU FOR THE VACCINE. It was the event of the season and I’m so grateful I was a part of it.