HOLD it

Just weeks from registration for the Spring semester, UTC decided to put a 'HOLD' on my (and many other students) ability to register. Why? Because I had not proven that I have had the MMR vaccine or chickenpox. I immediately called my mother to ask her for my records. She couldn't find them. I called UK to ask for them, but they said they don't keep them once you graduate. I called my pediatrician's office in my hometown. They told me they would have to look in the basement and get back to me (because I'm so old ha!). They (HALLELUJAH!) had proof of my MMR vaccine, but no chickenpox proof because I had them at 18 months old and my mom never took me to the doctor when I had them (like most moms back then). They told us that I likely 'checked' that I had already had the chickenpox on paperwork at the physician's office were I live now and that from that information, they should be able to write me a note to verify that for UTC. I called my physician (that I hadn't seen in almost two years!) and left 2 messages for her nurse. Being that my registration window opens next Friday, November 18th, I began to panic and decided to drop into their office in person to ask for the information. There, they told me they couldn't write me a note, but that they could draw blood to prove that I've had the chickenpox. My exact words were, "That's what I was afraid of!" I filled out new paperwork, presented my new insurance card and driver's license, and waited for my name to be called. I was so nervous. 1. Because I HATE needles! 2. Because I don't think I have ever had blood drawn before. AND 3. Because other girls who had their blood drawn recently at the UTC Student Health Center complained of the nurse having difficulty finding their veins and even rolling them or sticking them several times! The only thing calming me down was the fact that I was NOT having my blood drawn where they had gone. I expressed my concerns to the nurse and she reassured me that I would be fine, it wouldn't hurt, and that I should never let anyone stick me without feeling for my vein first. Good to know! I closed my eyes while she reminded me to breathe...constantly. Guys, I have to admit...it wasn't bad. I'm just a big baby (and I will likely act the same way next time I have to get a shot or blood drawn). My arm felt weird and almost numb for the rest of the day, but I DID NOT FAINT! GO ME! My problem now is getting the results of my test back in time for registration! OY! Why they couldn't just accept taking a look at the scars I have from the chickenpox, I will never understand. HAHA!
Also, while in class yesterday, my professor mentioned that some parents are opting out of the MMR vaccine for their children because they believe it may lead to autism. To that, parents, I say...GOOD LUCK GETTING YOUR KIDS INTO COLLEGE! HA!