When Paul Carson learned that people 12 and older can receive Pfizer’s authorized COVID-19 vaccine, he couldn’t wait to make an appointment for his son Anthony, pictured at left.

Anthony, who is 12 years old, has Down syndrome, which puts him at much higher risk for severe complications from COVID-19.

Paul was able to schedule Anthony’s first dose last week at the drive-through vaccination site at the Portland International Airport (PDX).

Paul and his wife Susan are beyond thrilled. Both described their son’s vaccination at PDX as a great experience and called the vaccine a “game changer” for their family — especially for their son. They didn’t know if they were going to be able to send Anthony back to school in the fall because of the risk and now they can.  

Watch the video below to hear more from Paul.

This article first appeared in the May 19, 2021 issue of Oregon Coronavirus Update.