“There is no better reward than protecting our family, loved ones, and community.” – Guylene Faustin
Collectively, Victorians have millions of reasons for taking the fight to COVID-19 this year and getting vaccinated. While travel often gets mentioned, many of us want to protect what we love that’s a little closer to home – like our family and friends, going out for dinner and drinks, or inviting people to ours. We caught up with Guylene Faustin, Patient Services Assistant at Jessie McPherson Private Hospital, to find out some of her reasons for protecting herself and those she loves against COVID-19.
Thinking back, what made you decide to be vaccinated against COVID-19?
I have a husband who is prone to illnesses, and as he is vulnerable, I needed to make sure that I am not a carrier of COVID-19.
What type of information did you rely on to decide to be vaccinated?
I relied on the education and information provided by Monash Health as to the benefits of obtaining the vaccine.
What was your experience like during the COVID-19 vaccination process?
I was well supported during the process and was provided with outstanding assistance regarding my queries.
How did you feel, physically or emotionally, as you progressed through the process, and how do you feel now?
I felt confident during the process as my concerns were appeased by the wealth of information provided by Monash Health. As a result, I currently feel fine and healthy.
Given your experience with COVID-19 vaccination, what would you like anyone who may be hesitant or concerned about vaccination to know?
I want them to know that the vaccine is safe and that there is no better reward than protecting our family, loved ones, and community.
What does getting protected against COVID-19 represent to you?
I feel responsible as a health care worker to protect the community and my family. So getting the vaccine was a no brainer for me.
What types of questions have your family, friends and colleagues asked you about COVID-19 vaccination?
Are you okay? Did it hurt? Aren’t you worried about blood clots? So, they have questions, but they really just want to hear from someone vaccinated that it is okay.
What are you most looking forward to doing once the community can return to a more familiar way of life?
I look forward to travelling back to my homeland Mauritius Island to introduce my family there to my grandson.
If you’re not vaccinated, it’s not too late. All Monash Health employees aged 16 years and over are eligible. Find out more here.
Everyone can spread the word to our patients about how to book into our vaccination centres. Download the flyer or direct them to the South East Public Health Unit website for more details. We also have patient-facing posters on eligibility with helpful QR codes for wards and waiting areas you can download here.
Approved by: Thinesh Chandraratne, Chief Executive Officer, Jessie McPherson Private Hospital