Editor’s note: The following is an open letter written by Brian King, Director of Membership Development for Rotary International, nearly 20 years ago. King, membership chair of the Rotary Club of Evanston, Illinois, USA, shares it annually to thank staff and Rotary members for their efforts to eradicate polio. We share it here in honor of World Polio Day.
My son received his polio vaccination yesterday.
I took little Dillon to the pediatrician for his 2-month check-up. As many of you may recall, the 2-month check-up is a monumental one; not just for developmental benchmarks, but also, unfortunately, because it marks the first round of (many) immunization shots.
First, a sit on the scale then to measure his length and finally his head circumference…. then…. the shots; Pneumococcal Conjugate, Diphtheria, Tetanus and Pertussis, Haemophilus, Influenzae Type B, Hepatitis B and last but certainly not least, Polio.
All administered so efficiently; effortlessly; so routinely. I held his hand, and calmed his cries, feeling bad for the pain he experienced, but knowing it was for his own good. These shots will protect him from diseases that we forgot even existed.
I then began to think of our experience in the context of what you, as Rotary members and friends of Rotary, are doing.
My son received his polio vaccination yesterday.
No political or geographic terrain to negotiate – just the sharp turns in the office parking garage…
No little pinky being dipped in ink – just a Sesame Street band-aid over the injection site…
No National Immunization Day – just a meager insurance co-pay.
But he is now safe from a crippling, life-threatening disease. Boy, what I have taken for granted…
My son received his polio vaccination yesterday. He is now safe – like millions of children around the world, thanks to you.
Once his cries subsided and I dried his tears, I couldn’t help but smile – for what you have and continue to accomplish. I will never again take for granted what we have; and I will never be able to articulate with words how much your efforts mean to me.
I am personally moved by your selfless gestures of generosity. It shows your thoughtfulness, compassion and commitment to our global community. You help ensure that kids less fortunate will lead healthier, happier, and more rewarding lives. Please don’t ever lose sight of what we, collectively, are doing. I sure won’t.
Learn more about World Polio Day and Donate to End Polio
https://blog.rotary.org/2025/10/24/reflections-from-a-new-father/