My reflections on receiving the #covidvaccine today: 1/

2/On the way to get my vaccine I walked by a field hospital - A FIELD HOSPITAL - on the @ucihealth campus. Not. Normal. This was constructed in anticipation of the influx of hospitalizations. This influx is happening now. The pandemic has risen to a new level.

3/So many emotions- feeling grateful for the science and scientists that enabled the vaccines’ creation. Grateful for the clinical trials and their diverse representation, and for all those that volunteered.

4/What matters in this moment is that we protect our communities most impacted by #covid19. Our “essential workers.” Least protected. Disproportionately affected.

5/Grateful for our @ucisom training programs @prime_lc and LEAD-ABC who are training the next generation of equity-focused physicians. They are the messengers to vulnerable communities. Time to get the message out that protecting ourselves is “essential”.

6/Messengers need to be familiar with the hesitancy of vaccination in the community. And get it. The history of medical trauma goes beyond Tuskegee. It is real & recent. But now- our mission is survival- and the vaccine brings hope.

7/So- while we wait our turn, we’ll educate, spread the message of light at the end of the tunnel w vaccine, & playing it safe- wear your mask, wash your hands, keep your distance (even after vaccination) I can’t wait to see you all on the other side of this!

@KaosoluchiMED @MajorCamajor @whatkbsaysgoes @UCIrvineSOM @helenast53 @prime_lc @johnbillimek @DrLeBucklin

@UCIrvineHealth @UCIBioSci