As of June 14, 2021, more than 64 percent of Americans had received at least their first vaccination against COVID-19. MyLungCancerTeam members who have been vaccinated are eagerly sharing their hopes and plans now that vaccination has lowered their risk for experiencing serious illness from the potentially deadly virus.

“[I’ve] been stuck at home for 14 months other than doctor appointments,” wrote one member. “Finally got both vaccines.”

Fun With Friends and Family

Many MyLungCancerTeam members are excited for fun activities with friends and family again. “Family friends stopped by today and we met their new puppy. It's great now that we're all vaccinated to have a little more interaction,” said one member. “Things feel slightly more normal.”

Others are reveling in a return to normal social plans. “Last weekend, my daughter and son-in-law came down for their first visit in a long time,” wrote another member. “Best weekend ever!”

Another member wrote of their family plans: “I’m so very tired even after napping all afternoon. But [on the] bright side, I’ll be able to hug my grandson.”

Still others are nervous about socializing again after being quarantined for a year — and that’s normal, experts say.

“Reentering society and socializing again is going to be a process,” wrote author Clay Drinko, Ph.D., in March. “Just like adjusting to pandemic life last year, this new transition is going to have its ups and downs. Instead of having unreasonably high expectations (I’m going to host a block party and be the belle of the ball), try to take it one step at a time and be curious about how each new interaction affects you (I'm going to try to talk to the neighbor and just see how it goes).”

Looking Forward To Travel

As travel restrictions lift and more people are vaccinated, some MyLungCancerTeam members are beginning to look forward to their first vacations in more than a year. Some members are hoping to travel to meet each other for the first time.

“On Friday, we take off for Kentucky, where my granddaughter and her family live!” wrote one member. “I’m looking forward to being near my great-grandson, Leo. They lift my spirits!”

“Maybe someday we can meet up,” wrote another member to one of their MyLungCancerTeam friends.

Staying Cautious After Vaccination

Members report that they’re continuing to be cautious when socializing. “Had my groceries delivered from Publix, and [I’m] looking forward to next Tuesday, when I will be able to visit my 95-year-old mother inside the nursing home.”

Even after you are fully vaccinated, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends continuing to take precautions such as:

• Wearing masks
• Staying six feet apart from others in public spaces
• Avoiding crowds and poorly ventilated public spaces

Ensuring that you continue to prioritize your safety can help ease your mind as you get back into the swing of post-vaccine life, wrote psychologist Marina Harris, Ph.D., in May. “By following guidelines and associated protocols, combined with the vaccine, you’re being as safe as you can possibly be.”

Local health authorities may have additional guidelines in place for your state or county. Be sure to check what’s permitted before planning activities.

Talk With Others Who Understand

MyLungCancerTeam is the social network for people with lung cancer and their loved ones. On MyLungCancerTeam, more than 2,300 members come together to ask questions, give advice, and share their stories with others who understand life with lung cancer.

Have you been vaccinated against COVID-19? Are you making plans now that your risk for infection is lower? Share your experience in the comments below, or start a conversation by posting on your Activities page.