As a nurse in mental health, I try to focus on something that brings me joy every day, especially during the tough times. It’s the personal connection with others that brings me joy. Laughing with others and having deep conversations about how we feel about our life’s journey and sharing what goals we have for the future build that strong sense of community. Being inclusive of everyone, having empathy, and hearing what the person feels – and needs – are crucial. I say to my friends that my job in life is to love people, encourage them and make it easier for them.

I was slightly hesitant in getting the vaccine, because it was developed so quickly – but I knew that this was the only way we could move forward to protect ourselves and others from getting infected. I need to be healthy so I can continue to help others in the operating room, and keep elderly family members, who I love, healthy. The COVID-19 virus is so much more contagious than expected. When people become infected, sometimes it causes a dire and deadly ripple effect in their families and communities. My hope is that others will eventually feel more comfortable about getting the vaccine. If we all do what’s best, not only for ourselves but our family members and community, the sooner we will be able to get back to spending time with the ones we love!

I am not a stranger to being put in harm’s way. I am a combat veteran. I served in Somalia. Now that I’m a nurse, I know there are hidden threats, like bacteria and viruses. Kaiser Permanente pioneered the way for me to be vaccinated, so I was motivated out of gratitude. If I am being my best, I can help my patients be their best. You have to be courageous and brave as a health care worker.

I’ve had multiple family members and patients acquire COVID-19, and I feel getting the vaccine will help keep me healthy and those around me healthy, too. I was anxiously awaiting my turn to get vaccinated and was thrilled to find out I could get it the first day it was offered in Colorado Springs, on December 23. That was the best Christmas present! The good news is, the vaccines currently available do an excellent job at preventing serious COVID-19 illness and death. Go ahead and get whichever vaccine is available to you!

I wasn’t hesitant about the vaccine, but I had concerns because I was listening to the media – social media in particular – and hearing the wrong things. I overcame that by trusting in my faith, and science, doing my own research, and talking to my doctor. After getting vaccinated, I felt an array of emotions, but mostly I felt hope for the future of my family and my community. Not only did I get the vaccine because I’m a frontline worker, but I did it for the health care workers who have lost their lives to COVID-19. By not getting vaccinated, you’re playing a dangerous game with your health and with the lives of others. I chose to follow the words from my pastor, ‘Be resilient, be hopeful, be healthy, and be helpful.

I was hesitant at first because it was a brand-new vaccine, and I didn't know how I would react. Then I started working in the COVID-19 vaccination clinic, and I learned a lot. I ended up getting my first vaccination so a dose wouldn't go to waste. My grandmother is living with me, and she's high-risk, so getting the vaccine was essential to keeping her safe. I also want to go to sports games again. I've met many different people at the clinic. I've seen them being nervous and skeptical to shedding tears of joy. In the end, they're all happy to get the vaccine. Don't fear the vaccine. It's not that bad.