Talk about a pandemic love story!
While Eric Vanderlee, a registered nurse, prepared to administer the COVID-19 vaccine to his boyfriend, Robbie Vargas-Cortes, he was astounded with a surprise proposal.
In the now-viral video, Vargas-Cortes rolled up his sleeve to expose his arm for the show. At first, Vanderlee believed that to be the spot where he was to inject the vaccine. He was shocked to find an engagement ring taped beneath the sleeve.
"It’s been kind of a crazy year, and you know it’s been a fun ride to have you in my life," Vargas-Cortes, a 31-year-old emergency medical service supervisor smiled to his beau before popping the question.
Vanderlee, as well as the surrounding coworkers, were surprised and overjoyed at the proposal. He later opened up about the moment on Instagram.
"Today I drove through a blizzard to administer COVID-19 vaccine in Canton," he wrote. "When Robby pulled up his sleeve for his shot, there was a ring!! I am so happy and shocked! As we usher COVID into history, I am so excited for the future."
According to CNN, Vargas-Cortes had the ring for three years before asking, patiently waiting for his moment. The couple will begin planning the wedding after the pandemic has passed.
As medical professionals during these turbulent times, it seems fitting for a vaccination to be a part of their life together. Vanderlee's 86-year-old grandfather passed away from issues related to COVID-19 in November.
"I want to be a part of this end. I feel like I can’t pass this up. It’s like a once in a lifetime opportunity to be the one giving the vaccine if I have the chance."
