Woman gets COVID-19 vaccine on 100th birthday

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LEHIGHTON, Pennsylvania (WNEP) — Marilyn Steigoer from Palmerton giggled underneath her “It’s My Birthday” mask as she was showered with flowers and one very important birthday gift.

Marilyn turned 100 and is now halfway there to being fully vaccinated against COVID-19.

“I am glad to get it. Yes, I am because I can get together with more people. I always stayed a distance, and I didn’t go out,” said Marilyn.

Marilyn got her first dose of Moderna’s vaccine at St. Luke’s Lehighton Campus in Carbon County along with her daughter Beverly.

“It was hard trying to get in any place. I guess supply is limited. I mean, we were just happy to get anything,” said Beverly Steigoer.

Hospital officials tell Newswatch 16 they have been working very hard to get as many people vaccinated as possible. Being able to share something like this is very inspiring.

“What a special woman. She is sharp as a tack. She gave a great message to the community: Go out and get your vaccine. It’s great for yourself, your family, and everyone you love,” said John Nespoli, St. Luke’s Lehighton Campus.

“It’s just really happy. It brings a tear to your eye when you see the liberation you get from having the vaccine,” said Joe Pinto, St. Luke’s Lehighton Campus.

The liberation that Marilyn has been waiting for.

Newswatch 16 asked what her secret is to living a long, happy life.

“Working hard. My mother, my grandmother, said work never killed anyone,” said Marilyn.

After waiting 15 minutes to make sure there was no reaction to the vaccine, Marilyn made big plans to get her birthday lunch at a nearby Cracker Barrel.

She and her daughter will be back in a couple of weeks to get her second shot in Lehighton.