The source for this article is well-known to the Butler Eagle, but chose to remain anonymous to protect his business. When the COVID-19 vaccine became available, “Sam” looked up information on the websites of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, World Health Organization and other reputable groups.He quarantined at home as necessary, wore a mask when he had to go out, and kept hand sanitizer in his car.Sam, 36, saw some of his friends contract COVID-19 and recover at home with symptoms that weren't too agonizing.“I'm healthy, and people my age tend to recover from it, so I didn't really see a reason to get vaccinated right away,” he recalled.It's a decision he would – thankfully – live to regret.Sam even felt confident enough to go on vacation at the end of July, flying to Chicago then West Palm Beach, Fla., before moving on to Orlando.He traveled with his girlfriend, a medical professional who was vaccinated early on in the coronavirus pandemic.

A portion of this story is shared with you as a digital media exclusive. To read the full story and support our local, independent newsroom, please subscribe at butlereagle.com. The full story published online on Saturday, Oct. 2 as part of the Sunday, Oct. 3 edition of the Butler Eagle.