I was in two minds about getting the COVID-19 vaccine

A bit about me and my MS

My government name is Janade, but please, we’re all friends so call me, JJ.

I've spent most of this lockdown trying to rebuild my strength and perfect more plant-based dishes. I’m also a very proud cat and plant mum.

I was diagnosed with relapsing remitting MS when I was 17. On a good day the fatigue, poor coordination and body aches can really slow down my day. On a bad day my body feels like I've been on a bender all week. Which wouldn't be so bad if that was actually the case.

How the COVID-19 pandemic’s affected me

Having face to face appointments at my neurology hospital turned into phone calls. And I’ve really missed being able to go to a bar in Soho with some friends and indulge in a beautiful glass of Old Fashioned.

I’m also not ashamed to say that I had a little cry when Notting Hill Carnival was cancelled.

When things go back to normal I’m looking forward to continuing travelling around the world with my sister. A return trip to Vegas and Iceland is well overdue.

Vaccine questions and side effects

When I was called to book my vaccine I was in two minds and had so many questions. Is it safe for people with MS that are on a DMT drug? What are the side effects? And so on... My MS nurses really did a great job at giving me some clarity. And I decided to schedule my jab.

I’ve recently had the AstraZeneca vaccine and the whole process was very quick and reassuring. You don’t even feel it.

Immediately afterwards I had one of the side effects to the vaccine - a high temp with cold shakes and chills. But I’m perfectly fine now.

A weight off my shoulders

Navigation through everyday life with MS can be stressful at times but if an opportunity arrives for you to remove at least one of those stressors, I would say take it.

Regardless of your views towards COVID, being vaccinated has definitely taken a massive weight off my shoulders and given me peace of mind and a sense of security. Moving forward, it's one less thing to worry about and to me, this is something that is very important for people living with MS.