Vaccine trials

Wednesday 14th October, 2020

What a day. As always the unexpected gets in the way of the expected. Also one's plans are not fool proof. Back to the saying 'to make God laugh, tell him your plans'.

My plans were simple. Go to Edinburgh Royal Infirmary and have a screening for the Oxford Covid vaccine programme.

I will not go in to the personal traumas and comments of various people over my wish to participate. Just suffice it to say that some were very opposed to my enrolling. A variety of arguments...first Edinburgh had a sudden spike in infections and was dangerous to visit and selfish as I might bring the bug back. Second I was endangering and involving others who did not want to be part of the back lash if it happened. Third I shared accommodation with vulnerable people. Fourth it was vainglorious...and on the arguments went. All understandable. Maybe I am just stubborn but I wanted to be of use and I applied and they wanted me, so I was of use. The vaccine is needed and I could help in a tiny way.

Well to cut a long story short I was to go by car to minimise risk of infection as Scottish Transport had recommended only travel if necessary. The Scottish Government advice was similar. Trains and public transport are more potentially infectious than private vehicles.

I ended up going by train. My car is old and unsafe. Trains have a special rate within Fife for bus card carriers. I dislike driving a long way and finding the Royal Infirmary would not be a doddle.

So by car to railway station. First joy was a free car parking ticket. I went to pay for the privilege and found a ticket for the day sitting in the machine. Train on time and no one on it. Arrived Edinburgh two hours before appointment so walked. I did not realise it was over three and a half miles. I am glad I did because I saw some fabulous sights of Edinburgh. It is the most beautiful, interesting and intriguing City with fascinating alleyways and buildings. Also I had to ask people directions. I think I asked six in all. Everyone was charming and helpful. Only one was 'new to the City' so could not help.

Royal Infirmary itself impressive in many ways. Their history, written on a long corridor wall, is amazing. There were few people about but always an NHS worker to give a mask, a sanitiser, directions etc....

I found the Research Centre. Kind and efficient receptionist. I filled in a form and then he put on a video explaining all. During the video, which was excellent, I noted two points which troubled me. When called to the nurse and doctor I mentioned these worries. After some time and the appearance of another doctor and a longer discussion it was agreed that I should withdraw. I insisted on staying on their list if they needed any more people to fill their quota of volunteers. They agreed and were grateful. I am saddened by this outcome. If I lived alone I could have gone ahead but consideration for others meant a withdrawal.

Now for obfuscation......I took the 49 bus back to the station. I got on the 19.03 train, the first off peak train available. I settled with a book and salami, chorizo, pork pies, pitta bread and Coca Cola from M and S. Then came the voice 'We regret that this train has been cancelled'. All sorts of muffled announcements but it was revealed that a ' person had been hit by a train' between A and B stations and delays were to be expected.

Coffee, faffing, questioning, wondering, sitting about, waiting, reading, worrying etc...and a phone call with the excuse of a broken down car! Do NOT ask!!!

One charming Scotrail employee kept me sane. Finally on the 21.43 train..illegal to my reduced fare ticket but sanctioned by nice railway man. I managed three cups of McDonald's coffee, the only place open near the Station.

Few on the train. Edinburgh was empty of people. Cafes, pubs, restaurants seemed closed. Almost felt like a lockdown. As the train left so Edinburgh was more beautiful as the Castle and other major buildings were lit up.

Home by 22.59. Came in wearing a mask as I have agreed to isolate from other house members. And straight to bed where I write this.

I am tired. I will sleep well. I am disappointed yet have learned much. I think God is chuckling. I am....

#vaccine #trials #research #ERI #edinburgh #covid