CHESTER, Pa. (KYW Newsradio) — A Delaware County nursing home reached a COVID-19 milestone Saturday, but it was actually a welcome moment.
Chester Mayor Thaddeus Kirkland was on the porch of The Belvedere assisted living facility as residents received the first shot of the Pfizer vaccine, alongside the health care professionals who work there.
"This is important because this is a city of minorities," said Kirkland, "and many times African Americans have been hit hardest by this virus."
Kirkland also recognized the long history of distrust with the medical field in the African American community. "I have my very own family members who are hesitant, and rightfully so, that impacts their thinking and their decision making," he said. "So it's important to be out here to lead by example when it comes to getting vaccinated."
The mayor admitted, though, that the pandemic won't end until most people are vaccinated. Still, he was positive. "We believe that this is a great opportunity," he said. "We believe that everything's going to be just fine."
Randolph Genwright was among the residents who received a COVID-19 vaccination.
"I feel protected," he said. "I feel it's kind of like extended my life." When reminded to get the second shot, he replied, "Now, that's the next part, to live long enough to get the second part of the vaccine."
The Belvedere's senior executive director Sharon McDermand got emotional as she described the hope she felt that she received her shot.
"Maybe I can hug my own family again that I haven't seen," she expressed. "It means life again, hopefully."
