SPOTLIGHT ON: Kathryn Stoncius

Name: Kathryn Stoncius

Pronouns: She/Her/Hers 

Department: COLSA; Nutrition & Wellness

Role at UNH: Alumni 

Year Graduated from UNH: 2020

How does getting this vaccine make you feel?

I am very grateful that I was able to receive the vaccine in order to protect myself, my family/friends, and the residents I work with every day.  

What does getting this vaccine mean to you?  

It means we are one step closer to stopping this pandemic and seeing how much it has affected the elderly population that I work with and those who are immunocompromised made me want to receive this vaccine.  

What would you say to someone who feels hesitant about getting the vaccine? 

Receiving the vaccine is a personal choice. If you are hesitant, do your own background research on each of the vaccines but make sure you are using trusted sources prior to deciding if you want to receive the vaccine or not. 

What have been some of your favorite ways to stay physically active during the pandemic?  

I was doing a lot of outside at-home workouts, going on runs, walks, & outdoor hikes when the weather was nicer but have started going back to the gym again as well! 

How have you been taking care of your emotional wellbeing during the pandemic?  

This pandemic allowed to me prioritize my emotional well-being in the midst of such an unprecedented time. The past year has been hard on many individuals but it is so important to dedicate a short period of time each day to doing something for yourself.  

How do you stay connected with others?  

I use social media and text messaging the most for staying connected with most of my friends and family. We have also had family Zoom calls which have been really nice for the members of my family who don’t get to see each other as often and due to the pandemic. 

Now that you have received the first dose of the vaccine, what is the next thing that you will be holding onto for hope?  

I have now received both doses of the vaccine and am starting to feel more relieved now that many other individuals have also received the second dose as well. I am hopeful that we will be close to back to normal during 2021. 

Do you have any positive words of encouragement for members of our audience who are feeling completely drained and burnt out from this pandemic?  

We’re all in this together, although this pandemic has been more difficult for some than others, we are all navigating through this pandemic together and we will continue to get through it as long as members of the community are following the recommended precautions and health guidelines.