COEUR d’ALENE — Some people cry after receiving their COVID-19 vaccination.

Happy tears, of course.

“People have been so incredibly grateful,” said Katherine Hoyer, public information officer for Panhandle Health District. “Some people bring us thank-you cards.”

At Thursday’s vaccination clinic, 350 people received their first dose of the vaccine. Among them were Jean and Harold Fricke, who said they spent hours on the phone, hoping to make an appointment.

“Some of our friends have given up,” Jean said.

But the wait was worth it. Once they arrived at the Kootenai County Fairgrounds, where the clinic was located, the process was smooth and efficient.

“It couldn’t have been easier,” Jean said after she received her vaccine. “I didn’t feel it — and I’m scared of needles.”

She and Harold said they experienced no symptoms or side effects immediately after getting their shots.

The couple spent Christmas alone, separated from their children and grandchildren. It was an effort to protect themselves and their family.

They hope that period of isolation can come to an end in the near future, after they receive their second dose. The appointment for their next shot was set up before they left the vaccination site.

“It gives you hope that freedom is around the corner,” Jean said.

Next week, 450 people are expected to receive their first vaccination, followed by 1,200 people the week after that. Hoyer noted that these numbers depend on the state supply.

Vaccines are administered by appointment only and are available to those who are in the Phase 1a and the top priority groups in the Phase 1b categories of the vaccine distribution plan. This includes health care employees, pre-K-12 school employees and people age 65 and older.

Each person has to provide proof of eligibility. Hoyer said verification has discouraged people from attempting to make appointments when they’re not eligible, which makes the process more efficient.

Lauren Cataldo, who works in Coeur d’Alene, said she felt good after receiving her vaccination — both physically and emotionally.

“I’m glad to be moving along in this process,” she said. “I’m doing this to keep myself, my family and my coworkers safe.”

For Debbie and Michael Hendricks, receiving their first dose gave them a sense of relief, as well as a feeling of hope.

“I feel like there’s a light at the end of the tunnel,” Debbie said.

They both have medical conditions that put them at higher risks of developing complications due to COVID-19. Being fully vaccinated will ease some of their worries.

“It was painless,” Debbie said after she received her shot.

“One poke and that was it,” Michael added.

Debbie said she wanted to get the vaccine not just for herself, but for others in her community.

“I really feel like we have an obligation to protect each other,” she said. “Wearing a mask is important. This is important, too.”