Daughter's plea from USA to NHS Forth Valley - give my mum her COVID-19 jag

Shirley Anderson messaged this week stating her mother Greta Grant, who lives in Breton Court, Falkirk, had yet to receive her COVID-19 vaccination due to the fact she had been rehabbing after a serious injury.

When she was told Greta might have to wait until April to get her immunisation, she felt she had to do something, but her hands were tied due to her living so far away.

Shirley said: “My Mum is almost 86-years-old.

"Ten weeks ago she fell at home and was rushed to Forth Valley Royal Hospital where she remained for six weeks with no visitors.

"She was then transferred to Cunningham House and now she’s recovering in Summerford House in Falkirk. Apparently if older people are in a rehab facility, they are being overlooked to receive the COVID-19 vaccine compared to people who are currently in an elderly care facility.

“I have been on the phone to Summerford and I was given an 0800 number I believe is the immunisation hub. Unfortunately I live in Washington DC and cannot make calls to 0800 numbers.

“I am extremely concerned my mum has been overlooked due to her being in a rehab centre. Obviously, it’s critical she receives the COVID-19 vaccine as soon as possible.

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"She has been moved to two different places, has survived an outbreak of COVID-19 in Summerford House – thankfully she did not get it – only to be told she might get the vaccine in April.

"It’s not the fault of Summerford House. My mum received wonderful care at Cunningham House and Summerford where she is currently living.

"The staff in both homes have worked very hard to take care of her and to make her comfortable, so many thanks to them.”

The Falkirk Herald got in touch with NHS Forth Valley on Shirley’s behalf and the health board confirmed it was now aware of the matter.

An NHS Forth Valley spokesperson said: “I can confirm our immunisation team are looking into this and will no doubt be in touch with the care home. Due to patient confidentiality we cannot comment further.”

Responding to the news, Shirley said she had yet to have any word from NHS Forth Valley – who now had her e-mail address – but thanked The Falkirk Herald for its efforts in bringing the matter to the attention of the health board.

She said: “My poor mum has been so brave. We lost our dad seven years ago due to brain cancer and they were married 59 years.”

COVID-19 vaccinations for the 80-plus age group began in Forth Valley on Monday, January 11.

The vaccines were delivered from a number of local GP practices and community venues, and continued on from a programme which began last year to vaccinate frontline health, social care workers, care home staff and residents.

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