As if the threat of COVID-19 weren’t enough, many individuals face multiple factors that heighten the risk of severe illness with the virus. Robin Wooten of Westland is a perfect example. She has multiple sclerosis, an autoimmune disease that increases the likelihood of a severe case of COVID-19 if contracted.
Robin is also African American. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, there is increasing evidence that some racial and ethnic minority groups are being disproportionately affected by COVID-19. In many of Robin’s circles, fears surrounding the vaccine are heightened, but she wasn’t going to let fear stop her. Robin educated herself, talked to her neurologist and doctors, along with her family to determine that the vaccine was safe and the right choice for her. Any lingering doubts were removed as Robin moved through the process. “It was like a well-oiled machine,” Robin said. “I pulled up, I went in, she pinched my arm and I got the vaccine.” Now fully vaccinated and “excited” to spend time with her mother, Robin is also excited to be speaking up within her communities to share her knowledge and experience with being vaccinated. “You’ve just got to trust," Robin said. "Talk to your doctors, talk to your family and go for it.” More from MIBluesPerspectives:
- Second Grade Teacher “Hopeful” After Receiving Vaccine
- Some COVID Patients Face a Long Road to Recovery
- COVID-19 Vaccines: Get the Facts
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