Ohio cop helps tech-troubled elderly sign up for COVID vaccine

By Suzie Ziegler 

LAKE TOWNSHIP, Ohio — Like most things in the 21st century, signing up for a COVID-19 vaccine is done mostly online. But that means some of the people who are most at risk – the elderly – are missing out. 

Introducing Ron Craig: community policing officer, hero and computer whiz. According to WTVG, Craig stepped in after learning that some older residents were having trouble scheduling a vaccine appointment. The reason? They didn’t have a smart phone or computer. 

Craig coordinated with his police chief and the Wood County Health Department to help schedule appointments. 

One of the people Craig helped is Bonnie Sedlmeier. It was emotional when Craig called to tell her she could get a shot, Sedlmeir told WTVG. 

“I just broke down and cried. I was so relieved and appreciative that someone I don’t even know would help me,” she said. “God sends us angels in life when we have challenges, and I feel he was an angel sent to me.” 

Although Craig says he’s just doing his job, he admits the project has been very fulfilling.  

“To know Bonnie came here in person to express her thanks is overwhelming to me,” Craig said. “This project has helped keep me busy, and trying to help people has been a big part of my life. I have been in law enforcement since 1974. I was a paramedic for 40 years, and a firefighter for more than 20 years.” 

Craig had helped about 150 seniors get their shots so far, according to WTVG.