“Being vaccinated means I can go out for a walk if I’m careful”

Carer Mary Adeson, 34, from London, has an underlying health condition, and worried about catching Covid

“Having the vaccine has been lifechanging for me. My anxiety level had been off the scale. Crippling. I am an adult carer for my mum who has a mental health disorder. This is a responsibility I share with my siblings. I have been caring for my mum for a long time and I’m also very conscious of the impact on my own wellbeing. I have an underlying health condition, which causes me to have difficulty breathing. Covid’s symptoms suggest I could die a painful death if I get it. That is a reality for me. I couldn’t sleep because it was on my mind constantly.

“My GP asked me whether I was happy to have the jab. I was generally happy but had questions, which I raised due to my existing condition. I discussed my concerns with my GP and did some checking myself, which I always do before I take anything new because of my medication.

“I read documents on the NHS.UK and gov.uk websites that explained how the vaccine worked and what reactions one might have. I don’t want to say it’s similar to the flu vaccine, but in my mindset that’s how I approached it. Afterwards, I only had a numb arm. I can now go out if I’m careful. I avoid the park but I am able to take a walk. I’m gradually overcoming my fear.

“I understand the lack of trust among some people. If it was just the Government telling me to get vaccinated, I don’t think it would be enough for me. But it’s all about who the information comes from – and this is coming from healthcare professionals, who are the experts.”