I am terrified of needles and have been dreading having my vaccine. I had it this morning and thought it might help some people in the same situation a little bit if I shared my experience.
I originally booked my vaccine through the NHS website and was supposed to be going to one of the vaccination centres. I then got a text from my GP and changed it to one of the local centres.
DH took me this morning as and when we got there he explained to the staff on the door about my phobia. One lady went off to alert the booking in team that I was in a state and she came back and took me through. I was asked if I wanted DH with me but said no, I'd be ok, and I went through to give my details. Another lovely lady came over and stayed with me the rest of the time. She took me through to the hall where they were doing the actual vaccinations and I was told to sit down and that I would be at the front of the queue.
As soon as a vaccinator became free I was led over and we sat down while they checked my details. I was asked if I'd like to lie down for the injection and thought it would be a good idea so I was taken to a screened off area and I laid down. My chaperone and the vaccinator kept talking to me and next thing, it was done. I had a drink (I'd taken a bottle of Coke with me just in case) and sat there for a while and I was then taken back to DH.
I'm so glad I had it done. I'm not going to say I'll be fine next time as I won't but at least I know what to expect. My lovely chaperone told me not to worry, they'll look after me next time as well so at least she isn't expecting a miracle!