Ms. Conniber Melanio, an MBA student of Cor Jesu College, presented a paper about her experience during the 15thInternational Public Health and Bioethics Ambassadors Conference last March 6, 2021.
Using autoethnography as a research design, Melanio narrated her journey from being suspected of getting the virus until her final recovery.
The conferences, sponsored by the American University Sovereign Nations (AUSN) and Eubios Ethics Institute, were attended by scientists and scholars worldwide.
“Presenting a paper at an international conference was extraordinary and a notable experience of mine. Being with foreign experts and having a chance to interact and share ideas was challenging on my part. However, it was, indeed, an honor to impart my experiences and to become an inspiration towards others,” she shared after the conference.
The title of her paper was COVID-19 Positive but Remained Positive: An Autoethnography of a Survivor.
Melanio also shared a piece of advice, saying, “Let us continue to live, being thankful for what we have, especially the people around us like families and friends. Let us appreciate life. Even if were are stuck in the dark, always remember God is there. Move forward.”
The last chapter of her paper was sub-titled “Prayer: My eternal Weapon.” It was in this chapter that most of the questions came during the open forum.
Melanio was very firm on her faith in answering the questions, saying that she was convinced God was a big part of her recovery, though she recognized the medical treatment.
In her concluding remarks, she said, “Let’s face it, life is terrifying. This virus is deadly. There are many moments in which you feel scared, uncertain, paranoid, and lost especially based on your assessment; you are not yet ready for any circumstances.
Let us take good care of ourselves, families, and genuine people around us and never stop believing in one God because through Him and with Him, nothing is impossible. Just keep moving forward! I was positive, but I remained POSITIVE. This is my story!”
