In speaking with Father Ashley about the pandemic and the Covid19 Vaccine, I shared how I couldn’t wait for my turn to be vaccinated, since I did not make it to the Polio vaccine in 1954. I am sharing my pre-polio vaccine story because of the importance of being vaccinated for COVID19.
Wanda Ferrauiola
Children began to be vaccinated in February 1954 with mass distribution in 1955. I contracted both forms of the virus in October of 1953 at the end of the polio season. These were the dreaded summer months especially in cities. I lived in the Bronx. I suffered complete paralysis, but was fortunate that I still could breathe on my own, not needing the iron lung. I was only five years old.
This Covid19 pandemic has brought up many difficult memories. Back in 1953, children and adults with communicable diseases were isolated at Willard Parker Hospital in New York City. Parents were unable to visit their children. I remember the spinal tap and what felt like many injections, only to awaken paralyzed in an old, dark room with chips of dried paint falling off the ceilings onto my body. I could not even wipe the vomit from my face.
I was such a small child who could not see her parents, or find comfort anywhere except in prayer. I remember seeing black covered stretchers passing in front of my room on which lay those who didn’t survive. Months in the hospital, hearing iron lungs, getting physical therapy, I was finally released to go home. I regained the use of all of my limbs with the exception of my right leg. I left the hospital wearing a leg brace and crutches. My mother brought me to school everyday to my first grade class, in a baby carriage. She could not emotionally handle a wheelchair.
I had three corrective surgeries at Bellevue Hospital. I had the last unsuccessful surgery at 13. I was told that I would once again become paralyzed by the time I was 25. It has a name now, post-polio syndrome. Some of those afflicted with polio suffer the same kind of pain and loss of movement, sadly being returned to braces and wheelchairs later in life. Just when you thought you were free of this disease, the effects of the disease rear their ugly heads. I am grateful to be okay.
Life was challenging, but having polio did give me a gift. Every day that I wake up and can move is a miracle. I celebrate each day of movement. Polio had lasting effects. We don’t know what long-term effects COVID19 will have on those infected. It, like polio, is a nasty enemy, which is why I feel that the vaccine is so important.
I just have to make it this time.