This COVID-19 Vaccinated New Yorker Went From Skeptic To Advocate

For Christopher Townsend, his teachers and his students are always top priority. As a leader in education, he is a natural at connecting the dots and ensuring that his teachers have the tools they need for their students.

When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, Chris remained on the job, helping his teachers navigate the anxiety of virtual learning and proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE) needed for when they returned to in-person blended learning.

When Chris wasn’t working, his duties turned towards his family — making sure his mother, grandmother and daughter felt safe and secure. Chris was the main provider making grocery and supply runs for his family during the start of the pandemic, but that was put on pause for a while when he contracted COVID-19.

Once recovered, the community and family man got back into action, supporting his teachers and students, and spending time with his daughter.

Chris almost didn’t get vaccinated because he thought his existing COVID-19 antibodies would protect him. However, his mom and grandmother cautioned him to think again. After getting familiar with vaccines and how they work, and gentle nudges from the wise women in his life, Chris decided to get vaccinated so that he can keep himself, and the people he loved most, safe.

“I tell people my grandmother is 94, she got vaccinated, and she didn’t feel a pinch,” says Chris.

Fully vaccinated, Chris is charged to lead the way into a greatly anticipated, fully reopened, back-to-school for teachers and students this fall.

Getting vaccinated is how we beat COVID-19 together. Learn more at emblemhealth.com/choosehealth.