Let’s Talk About the COVID Vaccines!

Doug James, Chief Operating Officer

Why was getting vaccinated important to you?

I got vaccinated to protect my family and my community, and so that we could all get back to the things we love about New York City.

If you had any side effects, what were they like?

My side effects were pretty mild. A little fatigue after both shots and some soreness.

What are you most looking forward to doing after you are fully vaccinated?

Just getting to really enjoy my friends and loved ones.

Did you wait to make a vaccine appointment? If so why?

Nope. As soon as I was eligible, I got the first available appointment.

How did you get your appointment?

Luckily, they had just opened the Medger Evers site in Brooklyn so appointment slots were available and it was comparatively easy for me.

Lilia Bellahsene, Special Assistant

Why was getting vaccinated important to you?

Simple: to protect myself, my loved ones, and my community

If you had any side effects, what were they like?

I did. I had flu-like symptoms and a sore arm. After a day of rest, Tylenol and lots of water, all side effects were gone.

What are you most looking forward to doing after you are fully vaccinated?

Not having to worry so much about the virus. As someone who had COVID last year, I can tell you that it is awful, that I never want to feel that sick again and hope no one else does either. Being fully vaccinated has given me peace of mind knowing that even on the slight chance that I do get infected, my symptoms are likely going to be mild.

I want to hug my friends and to see the city that I love so much coming back to life after a long and difficult year.

Seeing businesses open and thriving, kids in school and the much anticipated return of the arts and cultural events that make NYC so unique. I went to my first indoors concert in over a year after I got vaccinated and it was a powerful experience.