The Great Read: The Firefighter With O.C.D. and the Vaccine He Believed Would Kill Him

For years, Timmy Reen tried to hide his compulsions and rituals from everyone at his New York City firehouse — until his secret was forced out in the open.

April 17, 2025, 2:01 p.m. Eastern time On weekdays and Sundays, we recommend one piece of exceptional writing from The Times — a narrative or essay that takes you someplace you might not expect to go. Jeenah Moon for The New York Times The Firefighter With O.C.D. and the Vaccine He Believed Would Kill Him For years, Timmy Reen tried to hide his compulsions and rituals from everyone at his New York City firehouse — until his secret was forced out in the open. Open now Need help? Review our newsletter help page or contact us for assistance. You received this email because you signed up for top stories or great reads from The New York Times. To stop receiving The Great Read, unsubscribe. To opt out of other promotional emails from The Times, including those regarding The Athletic, manage your email settings. To opt out of updates and offers sent from The Athletic, submit a request. Subscribe to The TimesGet The New York Times app Connect with us on: Change Your EmailPrivacy PolicyContact UsCalifornia Notices The New York Times Company. 620 Eighth Avenue New York, NY 10018