Residents of Hoffman SummerWood, a senior living community in West Hartford, received their first dose of the Covid-19 vaccine on Jan. 12. Nearly 98% of residents participated in the clinic, including one centenarian.

Arnold Helfand, who will turn 101 on Feb. 5, making him the oldest Summerwood resident to receive the vaccine, saw the vaccine as a way of reconnecting with family. “I want to see my grandchildren and my great grandchildren, but more than that, I want them to see me!” he exclaimed.

Joan Weinberg and her husband of 63 years, Leonard, waited in line together for the vaccine. “I’m a bit anxious as I have an appointment following this and I hope I am feeling well enough, but it’s all going to be worth it,” she said. 

After receiving her vaccine Shirley Goldman, who has lived at SummerWood for more than 7 years, had nothing but praise for the process. Said Goldman, “I thought that the vaccination clinic was run so efficiently; so beautifully; everything on time; everybody is moving along, and the people are very gracious. I am thankful that I am here at SummerWood, and that we are all getting our vaccinations!” 

All in all, it as a great day for Hoffman Summerwood, said Denise Peterson, RN, FACHE, president and CEO of Hebrew Senior Care, which operates the living facility.“The health, well-being and safety of our community continues to remain at the forefront of our mission,” she noted. “This has been a long-anticipated day and with this miracle of science we hope to once again allow our residents to see and hug their families, friends and loved ones.”

Main Photo: At almost 101, Arnold Helfand was the oldest SummerWood resident to be vaccinated.  (Sophia Cannavo-Ostroski)