Sarah Lamb

First Dose of Pfizer on 05/21/21

Kitchener, Ontario

Q: What was your life like before you got the vaccine?

I don’t have any known underlining conditions and was a healthy 41 year old . Before my vaccine I was working out 5-6 times a week and I run a dog walking business so walked many km a day. I am happily married and have a wonderful 5 year old son.

Q: What was your reaction, symptoms, & timeline?

Right after my vaccine I felt completely fine. That evening when I went to sleep I woke up twice with my arms falling asleep. I thought possibly I was sleeping strange due to arm pain from the shot . Little did I know it was the first sign of what was to come. The next morning I lost feeling from the waist down and collapsed spraining my ankle. I went to our emergency department for an X -ray on my ankle . When I explained what had happened a report was made to public health as an adverse effect to the vaccine . I was told they were contacting my Dr for further blood work and a referral to a neurologist. That day is also when my neuropathy issues started... tingling from my knees down , unsteady on my feet , twitching in my fingers and toes as well as my arms continuing to fall asleep many times a night waking me . The 10 th day after my vaccine I had another episode where I lost feeling from my waist down and also lost vision, extremely dizzy, couldn’t put words together and couldn’t read or focus . I thought I was having a stroke . It lasted about 5 min but the dizziness ( I couldn’t walk without holding onto walls ) and confusion lasted two days. Tingling and numbness ( I didn’t know if water on my legs was hot or cold etc ) lasted on and off for 2 months but then turned into pain ( burning and throbbing ) in my legs as well as joint pain , migraines and dizzy spells. My last “flare “‘resulted in breathing issues when going up and down the stairs, discoloration in my legs and urinary retention.

Q: What was your life like after you got the vaccine?

I’m trying to remain positive that I will heal completely but as a previously active and healthy person it has been very challenging . My symptoms now come in flares and I can only hope I will continue to improve.

Q: Share your experience with any medical care and any diagnoses you have received:

My GP did blood work to look for diabetes / thyroid issues / lupus and rheumatoid arthritis ( all were normal). I was referred to a neurologist and they ruled out Guillain Barre Syndrome . I was told my tingling was a small fiber issue but they were going to do an EMG test on my large fiber nerves ( this happened 5 months after my vaccine and was clear). I was referred to an autonomic specialist in June but still do not have a date for an apt. My neurologist has now suggested I see a Rheumatologist.

Q: Was your reaction reported, and what was the response?

My reaction was reported to public health the morning I collapsed after my vaccination . 4 months later ( before my nerve conduction tests or all specialist appts were complete ) public health called me to tell me to get a second vaccination . I told them I had no answers to what was happening to me and I still have symptoms. On what basis did they suggest I get a second vaccine ? They told me that even though I had an adverse effect from the vaccine it was not a “contraindication “ and my symptoms were temporary . I once again told them I was still having symptoms 4 months out and I was informed they were closing my case and sending a letter to my doctor to get another vaccine.

Q: Is there anything that has helped, and have your symptoms improved?

I have been taking natural remedies now in hopes to reduce possible inflammation. I have not been given anything by Drs for pain.

Q: What do you wish others knew?

I simply wish others understood this is REAL. I’ve spoken to literally 100s of people with similar symptoms to my own . Very few are getting any help . It’s become too political . Everyone should be made aware of possible side effects so they can make truly informed decisions ( either way !) People should also stop labeling others "Anti-vaxxers” and “ conspiracy theorists" when they are simply making decisions about their health. I made a decision I regret. In my province, I can’t see a movie with my son, take him to skating, go to a museum... all because I refuse to take another dose of something that has caused 6 months worth of injury. I think most people should be able to see the stupidity in this.

#WeWantToBeHeard #RealNotRare