COVID-19 Vaccine Clinic Held At Alden Estates of Orland Park

ORLAND PARK, IL — Alden Estates of Orland Park Rehabilitation and Health Care Center held its first COVID-19 vaccine clinic for residents and staff Monday. In partnership with Walgreens, the clinic vaccinated more than 90 staff and residents with the first dose of the Pfizer vaccine, according to the center.

The health care center sent out a survey to residents, caretakers and staff to ask who would like to get the new vaccine. Although the vaccine was not mandatory for staff members, the majority of staff and residents were in favor of getting it, according to representative Ajah Polk.

“We are pleased to be able to offer the COVID-19 vaccine to our residents and staff,” said Robert Molitor, Chief Executive Officer. “Our residents have a much higher risk for getting sick, being hospitalized, or dying from COVID-19. Our caregivers live in the community where the virus continues to spread, and yet despite the circumstances, they continue to risk their lives caring for our most vulnerable. This vaccine has been shown to provide a great deal of protection against the virus and will save many lives.”

Ajah told Patch that Walgreens was "great to work with" when administering the vaccine. She said most recipients were excited to receive the shot.

“I felt great getting the vaccine,” said Daryl Chappell, Building Manager. “It eases my mind and I feel a lot safer going into residents’ rooms. I already used PPE, but the vaccine makes me feel a lot safer in terms of caring for the residents.”

Following the vaccine clinic, Alden Estates said it will continue to follow all necessary precautions, including wearing personal protective equipment and conducting regular testing, to ensure the utmost safety.

“We are grateful that federal and state officials designated long term care residents and staff as a priority for the first phase of distribution for the vaccine,” Molitor said. “This has been a very challenging year for our staff, our residents and their loved ones. With COVID-19 cases continuing to rise within our community, we know there is still a long road ahead. However, we are encouraged that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has found the vaccine to be safe and effective. We are hopeful that we can begin to put this pandemic behind us and look ahead to brighter days.”

Ajah said those who received the vaccine will be getting their second round in 3-4 weeks, and that there were no complications this first round.

To learn more about Alden Estates of Orland Park, visit its website here.

Like what you're reading? Invite a friend to subscribe to free Orland Park Patch newsletters and real-time email alerts.