Butler Memorial Hospital opened their doors for children 5-11 years old Tuesday as they hosted their first pediatric COVID vaccination clinic.
The hospital’s former chief nursing officer Mabel Gray returned to help administer shots—and she was extremely happy to be on site for the first day of the clinic for children.
“It’s something we’ve waited for, for a very long time,” Gray said. “Parents have waited forever, they’re so happy to have this available.”
The clinic had toys, movies, and even iPads to help make it easier on the kids. Overall, the hospital has seen about 500 children sign up for a vaccine.
This is the latest vaccine clinic that the Butler Health System has done. The first for adults began in the hospital’s auditorium, before switching to the former Sears location at the Clearview Mall, and then eventually landing at the BHS Crossroads Campus. Gray and current Chief Nursing Officer Karen Allen said it’s not easy to plan for all of these clinics, and praised the work of X-Ray technician Karen Gagen, who has been very important in the organizing process.
“I’m just trying to make sure we get as many people vaccinated as we can,” Gagen said.
Gray also hopes that number continues to grow, especially with the children.
“This is our first and we’re hoping to get settled in, and as time moves on we’re hoping to get as many kids [vaccinated] as we possibly can,” Gray said.
Hospital officials say to continually check their vaccine scheduling page to see when appointments become available.
