Iowans should see vaccinations as a privilege

To laugh or cry? Iowans are declining coronavirus vaccines. I'm so thankful I've received one dose and am scheduled for my second.

To receive a vaccine is a privilege. Seven of our family members were ill with the virus, and two had long-term effects. Once the medical community began getting their vaccines, we were hopeful. Remember that feeling?

Coronavirus infections "surge … with terrifying speed" in India, as reported recently in The Gazette. Also reported, Iowa House Speaker Pat Grassley's statement: "(Iowans) want their medical freedoms protected.“

Iowans, I respect your medical privacy 100 percent, but I don't know what medical freedom is. Gov. Kim Reynolds, wanting to have and eat her cake, tells Iowans she "respect(s) that it's a personal choice" while also asking, previously, “What are you waiting for?”

Medical freedom, is that like “Live Free Or Die?” Or is medical freedom access to quality medical care for all Americans, regardless of your ability to pay for it? At the risk of offending your personal choice, Iowans, vaccinate yourselves. It's an American privilege. You should be so fortunate.

Gretchen Reeh-Robinson

Mount Vernon