Look, life is busy. We’ve got places to be, things to do, deadlines to meet. Maybe you’re out at Cobra Cabana scarfing down a burger, or walking through Hollywood Cemetery trying to piece together Richmond’s haunted past. Vaccinations? They’re not exactly at the top of your list.
But here’s the thing—now might be the time to check that box. Not because anyone’s waving a finger at you, but because taking care of yourself, and by extension the people around you, is one of those underrated, unglamorous acts of grace.
Don’t just take our word for it—reach out to your doctor or pharmacist. They’re the ones who are there to guide you and have your back.
Lately, there’s been a lot of noise about vaccines, courtesy of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. He’s been making waves, railing against vaccines and sparking legislation that could make access to them trickier down the road. Whatever your thoughts on him, one thing’s clear: if you’ve been putting off your shots, it might be smart to go ahead and take care of it while it’s simple.
Why Does This Even Matter?
Vaccines are why you don’t see polio lurking in the shadows anymore. Why you can send your kids to school without worrying about measles shutting the place down. They’re not just for you—they’re for your neighbor who’s recovering from chemo, or your friend’s newborn who’s still too young to be vaccinated.
In Virginia, we’ve seen a little dip in vaccination rates lately. Nothing catastrophic, but enough to give you pause. We’re a city built on connection, on shared moments—at the VMFA for an exhibit, in line for a ham and cheese at Joe’s Inn, or pressed up against the stage at The Broadberry. That’s all worth protecting, isn’t it?
Don’t Wait for the Sky to Fall
Getting vaccinated is easy. You’ve got options—pharmacies, clinics, your doctor’s office. It’s quicker than the wait at a food truck on a First Friday. And if you’re not sure what you need, don’t take it from us. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist. You know, the people who are actually there to help you figure it out.
Do It Your Way
Once it’s done, treat yourself. Grab a slice of Proper Pie, a taco from Don’t Look Back, or a drink at your favorite watering hole. It’s not just about the shot—it’s about the peace of mind that comes with knowing you’re doing your part to keep yourself and your community healthy.
Keep Richmond Weird—But Not Sick
This city is too good to let preventable diseases creep back in. We’ve got murals to paint, shows to catch, and stories to share. Don’t let something as small as a shot hold you back. So, if you’ve been meaning to take care of it, just do it. Not for the system, not for some political debate, but for the people in your life—and for yourself.
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