You’re not dead because we care.

Pandemic data gives us hope.

In the last three weeks, the rate of new COVID-19 cases has plunged 35%. With millions of Americans infected and recovered, and millions of Americans vaccinated, add those two numbers together and it appears we’re at the very least heading toward herd immunity.

Also, add to it a cultural acceptance of the simple but essential preventative measures reasonable people have adopted, wearing masks, social distance, and you have a brighter light at the end of long dark tunnel.

I’m grateful. I live in Manhattan. We had rough days. But I haven’t seen an unmasked person in months. Without the help of my neighbors, without the sensible leadership of my local government, this island would be a wasteland.

So my thanks go out to all the scientists and leaders who led us with data and asked for the simplest of gestures on behalf of our neighbors. And who worked in their labs at breakneck speed to deliver a vaccine.

We were lucky this time. Let’s take these lessons and build from here.

And let’s keep in our hearts the millions who died or now face a lifetime of suffering. COVID-19 is no joke. It’s a serious threat to humanity and deserved a serious response. Thanks to all who led the way.