April 2021
Why did I want the vaccine?
I got the vaccine because I am a person with a developmental disability and mental illnesses and I am also a health care worker that works with seniors with Alzheimer’s and dementia. I need to make sure to keep myself safe and them safe. We live in a world where people like myself and with other medical issues need help and need to keep safe.
What helped me prepare for the vaccine?
I talked with my friend who is a nurse and asked her how her experience was and what if she got any symptoms. She filmed her whole journey and shared it with me. After hearing her experience I felt good about going and getting mine.
What was helpful and what wasn't helpful
My experience was rough because I didn’t have the proper information saying I was a health care worker and I didn’t have a badge because I just got a full time job. I had to make sure I had proof to say I’m a health care worker. I had my dad with me because he was getting the shot as well so it was good and he was my ride so I had to wait for him.
Advice for other people
My advice would be not to be scared, just think that it’s a 1,2,3 pinch and that’s it. To anyone with a developmental disability, bring something that reminds you of something safe (a pillow, stuff toy) or music. My arm just hurts. Plan it on a day that a family member is going to get it done because you will have that support. My dad got his done the same day as me.
The Azrieli Adult Neurodevelopmental Centre