We ALL Need a Shot in the Arm!

By Director Barbara Palmer

I am looking forward to receiving my second dose of the COVID-19 vaccine in the coming weeks. I hope you are looking forward to receiving your vaccine too!  We are hearing about lots of people who are believing misinformation and are now reluctant to get the vaccine. That is such a shame. Their decision impacts their entire family and the people they work with by putting them at risk of infection. We all need to receive our shot in the arm to protect ourselves, our families, and our communities from COVID-19.

APD has developed flyers, videos, and fact sheets to educate those who want to know more about the vaccine and what to expect when receiving the shot. We have also added information about the new statewide vaccine registration system. To review vaccine information, please visit https://apd.myflorida.com/covid19/vaccine.htm.

Deputy Director of Operations Clarence Lewis receives a vaccine shot.


I am happy to report that the residents and staff at our state-run facilities in Gainesville, Marianna, and Chattahoochee are all participating in the vaccination program with many of our residents and staff already completing their second shot.

Northwest Region Manager Linda Donar speaks with a nurse after receiving a vaccine shot.


We have several top administrators who are leading by example. The Superintendent of Tacachale, Michael Mayfield, just received his final shot recently. Also, APD’s Deputy Director of Operations, Clarence Lewis, got his final inoculation. In addition, Northwest Regional Operations Manager Linda Donar has begun the vaccination process. There are many APD executives who have received their shot in the arm too. These leaders made the choice to take the vaccine to protect themselves, their families, and their coworkers from COVID-19. I am so proud of them!

Tacachale Administrator Michael Mayfield receives a vaccine shot.


We also have had great reports about clinicians from the Long-Term Care Pharmacy Program going into some of our APD licensed group homes and efficiently delivering shots to both our customers and staff. Our goal is to have all our group home residents and staff vaccinated as soon as possible. We are also hearing about families taking their loved ones to their medical providers and local hospitals to receive their inoculation. However or whenever you are able to receive the vaccine, make it a priority for yourself and your family.

With your help, here’s to a safer 2021 for all.