A New Mexico book club has changed gears during the pandemic, helping thousands of people in its community get vaccinated against COVID-19, according to a report.
The 11-member group, called The Fabulous Ladies Book Club, became involved in the effort when a member’s husband, Dr. Stephen Rath, opened a vaccine clinic in the village of Ruidoso, KOB reported.
Rath began the operation after an employee of the state health department called for help.
“He said we didn’t have anyone in Lincoln County who was willing or able to vaccinate the public,” Rath told the dam.
“He said they had vaccines to send us if we could or were willing to open a vaccine clinic.”
The book club teamed up helping promote the new site.
“It was a lot of trying to post it, reach out to people we knew, get phone calls from 7am,” Alexandra Born member KOB told KOB.
“I had people text me at 11pm. We all try to do full jobs all the time,” he said.
The work of the book club did not go unnoticed. After being featured in the Washington Post, they received praise from former First Lady Michelle Obama.
“The Fabulous Ladies Book Club is an example of what is possible when people come together to help their community in times of need.” Obama tweeted.
“His incredible organizing work has helped so many people in his city get the COVID-19 vaccine. Way to go, gentlemen! ”