Chapter 1 To 3 (Fighting)

Republic of the Philippines
Department of Education
TANDAG NATIONAL SCIENCE HIGH SCHOOL
Tabon-tabon, Quezon, Tandag City
HUMANITIES AND SOCIAL SCIENCES STRAND
Chapter 1
THE PROBLEM AND ITS SETTING
Introduction
In our society today Coronavirus disease is still a very rampant and
relevant issue, but to some the challenges and problems that the survivors of the
virus have gone through has never come to mind (Rahman, 2020). Being
infected by Covid-19 and having experienced the symptoms of the virus and
being hospitalized because of it isn’t the only effect that it brings and leaves on
the patients’ health and body. Not only does it weaken the patients’ body during
the time of infection, it also leaves permanent or long-lasting conditions to the
patients’ health. Having experienced being infected by the virus also leaves
trauma to the patients and may affect their social life and how they interact with
people around them (Gardha, 2022).
According to the CDC (Center for Disease Control and Prevention), the
most common lasting symptoms are fatigue, shortness of breath, cough, joint
pain and chest pain. Other issues include cognitive problems, difficulty
concentrating, depression, muscle pain, headache, rapid heartbeat, and
intermittent fever. These examples only show the most common long-lasting
symptoms the Covid-19 leaves the survivors. The Mayo Clinic staff says,
Although COVID-19 is seen as a disease that primarily affects the lungs, it can
also damage many other organs, including the heart, kidneys, and the brain.
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Organ damage may lead to health complications that linger after COVID- 19
illness. In some people, lasting health effects may include long-term breathing
problems, heart complications, chronic kidney impairment, stroke, and Guillain-
Barre syndrome — a condition that causes temporary paralysis.
The real-life experiences of the patients admitted in the COVID wards and
their well-being in the COVID-19 era is largely neglected. There are few
blogs/youtube videos of the recovered patients/ Corona survivors about their
experience during their hospital stay (Busby, 2020). In our society the people
who survived the Covid 19 virus are now often neglected and forgotten. Some
might deem it unnecessary, but it is a relevant topic in our society especially
during the reign of Covid. It might not be a big deal, but we aim to share and
shed light about their stories and struggles as survivors and victims of the Covid
19 virus.
This research will benefit and shed light on the survivors that had their
lifestyles and way of living by affected by their experience with Covid 19. This
research will highlight hardships that the survivors has gone through in coping
and adapting to the world when they fully recovered. It will also help in spreading
the word about the struggles that the survivors have gone through when they
were hospitalized due to Covid. And lastly it can be a message to people that
Covid 19 is real and that we should always follow the rules and protocols.
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Theoretical Framework
To support some details, this study anchors to the Social Cognitive
Theory. Albert Bandura (1960) on his social cognitive theory suggested that self-
regulation operates through major sub functions as a self-governing system.
Individuals evaluate their behavior against how they cope in a situational crisis
and valuation of the activities. The said theory simply mean that individuals have
the capability to cope and deal with the stress they encountered when they get
infected with COVID-19.
The Social Cognitive Theory is relevant to the study since it suggests that
individuals have the ability to cope and deal with the stress they encounter when
they get infected with COVID-19. The study aims to explore the coping
mechanisms of coronavirus survivors in dealing with the physical and
psychological effects of the virus, as well as the challenges they faced during and
after their infection. By understanding the ways in which survivors cope, the
study can contribute to the development of interventions and support systems
that can help individuals better manage the stress and challenges associated
with COVID-19. The Social Cognitive Theory can provide a framework for
understanding how individuals evaluate their behavior and adapt their coping
mechanisms to changing circumstances, which can inform the development of
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such interventions.
This study also anchors to the Socio-Psychological Theory, asserts that
individual and society are interlinked. This means, an individual strives to meet
the needs of the society and the society helps him to attain his goals. Through
this interaction, the personality of an individual is determined. The considered
application of pertinent and Socio-Psychological theory in the pandemic is
particularly important because the responses of many governments appear at
times to have been informed by flawed psychological assumptions based around
notions of panic, behavioral fatigue, and psychological frailty (Drury, Reicher, &
Stott, 2020).
According to this theory, the society also affect people who are infected by
COVID-19, and it plays an important role in shaping the personality of an
individual. In addition, this is how it relates to our study which indicates how this
can help them cope up on certain circumstances they will undergo.
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Conceptual Framework
• Effects of Covid-19 to the

survivor
Lived experiences of coronavirus
• Various challenges faced
survivor
during and after infection,
• Coping mechanisms adopted
by the survivor to overcome the
challenges
Figure 1
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Schematic Diagram of the Study
Figure 1 shows the conceptual framework illustrating the aim of the study
and the necessary data to be collected to successfully create the study.
The first box shows the different experiences of a coronavirus survivor. It
includes the effects of covid-19 to the survivor, challenges and coping
mechanism. While the second box shows the lived experiences of coronavirus
survivor which is the expected output of this study.
Statement of the Problem
This study is conducted in order to know the lived experiences of
coronavirus survivor, in Tandag City. Moreover, it shall seek to answer the
following questions:
1.) How did having the coronavirus change the survivor’s views in life and
relationship with other people/social life?
2.) What are the challenges that the coronavirus survivor experienced?
3.) How did the coronavirus survivor cope up with the complications and health
problems that were brought by the virus?
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Significance of the Study
The information brought by this study is very beneficial and will contribute
new knowledge to those who do not know about the lived experience of
coronavirus survivor. After gathering all significant information this would be
beneficial to the following:
Local Government. This study could help them create, and plan an
effective set of protocols to implement during the COVID-19 pandemic, and to
legislate laws to protect the survivors of COVID-19.
Community. The community will develop awareness and will make them
more productive to have actionable policies. Also the people will discipline
themselves to be stricter in following the correct protocols to avoid the virus. It
will make them more productive, safe and to be more careful at all times.
To the future researchers. The information that are brought by this study
can be used by other future researchers. This can also be a source of reference
needed to complete their study.
Scope and Limitation of the Study
This study is only centered on the lived experiences of coronavirus
survivor in Tandag City. This study includes the survivor’s views in life and
relationship with other people as well as how they cope-up with the struggles and
challenges that they experienced being a COVID-19 positive patient. The
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researchers of this study used the primary data using a researcher’s handmade
questionnaire to assess the experiences of a Covid-19 survivor. The key
information of this study will be at least 1 coronavirus survivor residing and are
present in Tandag City, with the age range 40 and above. Lastly, due to the
limitations of time and resources the study is conducted in May 2023.
Definition of Terms
The terms stated below are defined to give a clearer vision on the things
that are reflected in this study.
Challenges. Something that needs great mental or physical effort in order
to be done successfully and therefore test a person’s ability.
Coping Mechanism. Any conscious or non-conscious adjustment or
adaption that decreases tension and anxiety in a stressful experience or
situation.
Coronavirus. Refers to the crown-like projections on the pathogen’s
surface. “Corona” in Latin means “halo” or “crown”. It is a family of viruses that
cause illness such as common cold, sinuses, or upper throat.
COVID Survivors. A person who tested positive for coronavirus and/or
who were later confirmed to have had the virus by testing positive for antibodies.
Experience. Practical contact with and observation of facts or events.
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Chapter 2
REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE AND STUDIES
This chapter presents the review of related literature and studies which
serves as significant sources that are relevant to this study. This includes
information coming from research papers, journals, articles, books and
dissertations.
COVID-19 Pandemic
The first case of Corona virus was reported on December 1, 2019, and the
cause was a novel coronavirus later called SARS-CoV-2 (Johns Hopkins
Medicine, 2021). On March 11, 2020, the World Health Organization declared
COVID-19 outbreak as a global pandemic (Cucinotta and Vanelli, 2020). The
World Health Organization (2021), stated that the majority of persons who are
infected with the virus have mild to severe respiratory illness and recover without
requiring for special treatment. WHO added that some, will become critically
unwell and require medical help. People over the age of 65, as well as those with
underlying medical diseases such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, chronic
respiratory disease, or cancer, are at a higher risk of developing serious illness.
COVID-19 can make anyone sick, causing serious illness or death, at any age.
Globally, the Central European Summer Time (CEST) of October 15,
2021, there have been 239,437,517 confirmed cases of COVID-19, including
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4,879,235 deaths, reported to WHO. A total of 6,495,672,032 vaccine doses
have been administered as of October 13, 2021. In the Philippines, a total of
2,713, 509 confirmed cases and 40, 580 deaths as of October 16, 2021
(Department of Health, 2021). DOH confirmed that on January 30, 2020, a first
case of COVID-19 in the Philippines specifically a 38-year-old woman who
arrived from Wuhan.
Mayo Clinic (2021) pointed out that the symptoms of COVID-19 are fever,
cough, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, muscle aches, loss of taste or
smell, chills, sore throat, runny nose, headache, chest pain, diarrhea vomiting,
nausea, pink eye (conjunctivitis) and rash. Moreover, Richardson, et al (2020)
said that COVID-19’s immediate assault affects a large-scale on the body. It
targets the lungs, but a lack of oxygen and widespread inflammation can also
damage the kidneys, liver, heart, brain and other organs. The lungs remain the
most common organ of serious injury as short-term outcomes of COVID-19,
manifesting as pneumonia and respiratory failure which is the major cause of
mortality in the acute phase.
According to the British Thoracic Society Guidance on respiratory follow
up of patients with a clinical diagnosis of COVID-19 pneumonia, those with
severe conditions have a high rampancy of post-viral lung Fibrosis, pulmonary
thromboembolism, and attendant functional impairment. This means that the
virus can cause long-term effects on patients in terms of respiratory outcomes.
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As a result, the lack of oxygen will cause further inflammation on other organs.
The heart, as a neighboring organ of the lungs deals with inflammation that even
after recovery, heightened systematic inflammatory and pro-coagulant activity
can persist long after resolution of the index infection which may lead to adverse
cardiovascular outcomes in the long-term (Leung, T. Y. M.,et al., 2020).
Additionally, the Philippine Department of Health keeps on ensuring the
public that all important careful steps are being required to end the spread of the
virus. Regardless of having the strictest and longest lockdown in the world,
Coronavirus cases in the Philippines keep on rising (Biana & Joaquin, 2020).
While these actions have eased back the local area spread of COVID-19, it
resulted in significant adverse impacts on family income, occupations, education,
food security, and businesses (The World Bank, 2020). This influences the
economy of the country, social qualities, and psychological stress of individuals
included direct contact with the infected person (Nicomedes & Avila, 2020).
Social life of corona virus survivor
Socially isolated people are less able to deal with stressful situations,
including the fact of having to fight a life-threatening infection. They are also
more likely to feel depressed and may have problems processing information’s
resulting to shutting themselves from other people. These impacts become worse
when they are placed in physically isolating environments (Robinson, 2019).
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People’s desire to avoid infection and remain healthy resulted in obvious
behaviors of social rejection. Such treatment can negatively affect those who
came in contact with the disease. According to the World Health Organization
(2020) the stigma associated with COVID-19 is based on three main factors: it is
a disease that’s new and unknown, often are afraid of the unknown, and it is
easy to associate that fear with others.
Busby (2020), stated that the real-life experiences of the patients admitted
in the COVID wards and their well-being in the COVID-19 era is largely
neglected. There are few blogs/youtube videos of the recovered patients/ Corona
survivors about their experience (about how they had fought with the infection,
how much they felt lonely during the admission etc.) during their hospital stay.
After quarantine, survivors were allowed to do more physical exercise outside.
Some survivors intended to increase physical exercise by walking and jogging in
the residential quarter or nearby parks in late evening or at night. It was found
that the majority of survivors wanted to reinstate their former good physical
health by doing more physical exercise and activities. However, some were
afraid of being recognized and blamed by neighbors and acquaintances, so most
survivors chose to stay at home (Greenhalgh et al, 2020).
Struggles of Corona Virus Survivor During the Pandemic
On top of the immediate and long-term damage to the physical health
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brought by COVID-19 to patients, the COVID-19 pandemic is having a profound
effect on the mental health of COVID_19 survivors across the globe (Lancet
Psychiatry, 2020). The virus may infect the brain or trigger an immune response
that causes additional adverse effects on brain functions and mental health.
According to BMC Psychiatry (2020), patients with pandemic infections
experience more psychological problems during outbreaks than other patients,
such that even after treatment and discharge, they may suffer from varying
degrees of stress disorders, anxiety, and long-term mental health problems. The
stress, mental agony, internalized stigma, feelings of guilt of infecting near and
dear ones, the shame of infecting others and anger directed towards self-suggest
that mental health is taking a big toll on people diagnose with COVID-19 infection
(Asian Journal of Psychiatry, 2020).
Moreover, high rates of posttraumatic stress syndrome are evident among
patients that have recovered from COVID-19 and were discharged from hospital
(Bo HX, Li W, et al., 2020). Apart from that, those who were admitted in ICUs
often experience post-intensive-care syndrome that manifests with cognitive,
psychological, and neurological symptoms or dysexecutive syndrome after ICU
discharge (Helms J, et al., 2020). In fact, according to PubMed, the risk of
depression was higher among COVID-19 patients due to the coronavirus
affecting the brain directly or indirectly by inducing a massive cytokine response
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harming the brain.
Furthermore, not only it affects emotional and mental aspects of a COVID-
19 survivor, it also creates diversion between the once infected individuals to
other people. In other words, the social well-being of a COVID-19 survivor is at
risk as well. Being avoided by other people and being isolated from social life
because of the mindset of a being cautious and careful adds on to the pain of
being a diagnosed patient even after being discharged for testing negative once
again. These aspects might lead to dramatic consequences such as the rise of
suicides (Kawhol & Nordt, 2020).
One of the most common reactions of people when they face a COVID-19
patient is fear. Fear is a major feeling that is important for self-defense and
survival, and it helps people avoid COVID-19 patients. Having an unknown
infectious disease made COVID-19 patients feel being discriminated against by
the public and even healthcare workers in the early stage of the outbreak. Many
of them experienced rejection by fearful healthcare workers while seeking
medical help. But even after getting away from being positive of the virus, being
cautious still never slips the mind of other people who try to stay at the safe side.
In a famous book by Durkheim E. “A Study in Sociology”, it emphasized that
social connectedness is a critical factor in emotional health and social stability.
The Irish Longitudinal Study on Ageing as well as other research investigations
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demonstrated that social isolation and loneliness are associated with major
depression.
Additionally, there was an observed neuropsychiatric linkage between
SARS (severe acute respiratory syndrome) and mental health problems with
severe psychiatric comorbidities like depression, panic attacks, anxiety attacks,
psychomotor excitement, suicidal deaths, delirium and psychotic symptoms.
Also, the lives affected by COVID-19 are at further stake due to the perpetuated
potential adverse effects. For instance, during travel restrictions and
postponement and cancelation of religious, sports, cultural and entertainment
events, people in quarantine may experience anger, loneliness, boredom and
anxiety, and symptoms of cough, fever, myalgia and fatigue may cause
emotional distress and feelings of fear of contracting COVID-19 (Xiang et al.,
2020).
Experience of Survivor Who Recovered from Coronavirus Disease
The World Health Organization (2021) stated that COVID-19 infected
people are the ones who have been most affected by the pandemic including the
problems they have faced in health, financial, and social status. These infected
people including the survivors have experienced different symptoms which are
observed physically like fever, dry cough, fatigue, loss of taste or smell, and more
for some time. However, there are cases of people who experienced severe
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symptoms like strokes, brain inflammation, and delirium, shortness of breath that
made those people suffer even further or worse died.
For most patients with severe illness requiring hospitalization, COVID-19
has been a frightening and life-changing experience. At the peak of the
pandemic, the attention of health care teams was focused on saving lives and
protecting health services from being overwhelmed. Those who survived were
often discharged without a robust process of follow-up. The prevalence of post–
COVID-19 complications is not yet fully known and may only become apparent in
the months and years to come (Geberhiwot et al., 2020).
Along with these difficulties, these people also experienced psychological
and mental effects of COVID-19 like stress, anxiety, depression, frustration which
affect their overall well-being while struggling in surviving the risk of COVID.
Some survivors, after they are done fighting for their lives to the risk of COVID-19
are still struggling because of psychological trauma. One of the psychological
traumas they encountered is what they called Survivor Guilt. It is defined as the
unfounded sense that they have done something wrong by not getting infected or
even by surviving the disease. The traumatic stress which the COVID survivors
are experiencing is different from the normal life stress that most of the
individuals have encountered. Because their traumatic stress can lead to
avoidance and emotional numbness and shame (UCSF, 2021).
Moreover, The stress, mental anguish, internalized stigma, feelings of guilt
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for infecting close family members, shame for infecting others, anger directed at
oneself, cursing one's fate, and wondering "why God has punished me and my
family" compound the distress of remaining socially isolated from the family in a
"locked up" state. All of these difficulties show that patients diagnosed with
COVID-19 infection and admitted to COVID wards are suffering from mental
health concerns. People's lived experiences bring the issue of "no health, no
mental health" to the forefront. Apart from anxiety, sadness, and insomnia,
mental health providers must know that guilt, wrath, frustration, and internalized
stigma will be key difficulties for these individuals, which they must address
(Sahoo et. al., 2020).
In addition, Social mobility restrictions imposed to combat the epidemic
are stressful because they hinder face-to-face contact and traditional social
relationships (Zhang et al., 2020). Those who can go out, such as professionals
who offer critical services, showed less anxiety and sadness symptoms than
those who stayed at home for 20 to 24 hours. COVID-related symptoms or
suspected COVID contacts were segregated and segregated from their loved
ones. In prior epidemics, the forced quarantine has been connected to negative
psychological impacts such as anxiety of contracting the infection and
transferring it to family members, annoyance and boredom from being isolated,
duration of uncertainty, and lack of basic necessities (Brooks et al., 2020).
Furthermore, the long-term effects Covid can cause physical and mental is
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not yet known. Recent studies have indicated that more than half of the patients
who survived Covid-19 undergoes severe psychiatric issues that include
depression, anxiety, insomnia, and stress (Kaseda & Levine, 2020). Recovered
patients may go through the emotions of anger, frustration, and sadness,
because of the social stigma they are facing (Javed et al., 2020).
Coping Mechanism of a Covid-19 infected Survivor
COVID-19 has not only had an impact on people’s emotions, but their
coping strategies too have undergone a change (WHO 2020). Moreover, Coping
strategies refer to behavioral and cognitive efforts that help to reduce the
influence of a stressful condition, and are used when its demands exceed
individual resources. The relationship between stress and coping strategies has
been a topic of previous studies, because in critical situations stress affects many
people, but individual responses vary according to their coping strategies. People
with chronic disease may find it difficult to cope with the perceived stress related
to the COVID-19 pandemic owing to the additional burden on top of managing
their existing health conditions (Girma, A., 2021).
In addition, it would be useful to assess how people are responding to
problems they are experiencing in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic and
which problems they consider most important. Graduate students may find it
more difficult to cope with existing problems in the context of new restrictions, or
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the pandemic may have introduced entirely new problems into their lives. In our
view, understanding how individuals are responding to problems in their lives
could be important for several reasons. First, individuals who are seeking advice
(e.g., about how to navigate stressors relating to the pandemic) may be
interested in learning about the coping strategies that others have found most
effective (i.e., those that people have perceived as most helpful in coping with
stress). Such strategies could also be included in outreach activities and could
inform efforts to provide mental health advice to the public (Li et al., 2020).
Furthermore, coping strategies based on emotional-focused coping is
varied such as watching Korean drama, worship/shallot, positive thinking, playing
with children, and watching a comedy movie. In contrast to survivors who are
self-isolating at home, in hotels and hospitals, and are still adjusting to
acceptance. During isolation for COVID-19 survivors are varied, including using
emotional-focused coping. This can reduce psychological health problems when
isolated in hospitals, hotels, and at home. Regular counseling is advised
(Samantha K. et al., 2020).
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Synthesis
The COVID-19 pandemic has had significant impacts on individuals,
including those admitted to COVID wards. Such individuals often experience
social rejection, depression, and difficulty processing information, leading them to
isolate themselves from others. While physical symptoms like fever are
commonly observed, psychological and mental issues also arise, negatively
impacting overall well-being. Coping strategies are essential in responding to
stress in critical situations, and their effectiveness varies depending on the
individual. Furthermore, fear is a prevalent emotion among those with COVID-19,
prompting avoidance behaviors to prevent contraction of the virus. Unfortunately,
this fear can also result in discrimination against COVID-19 patients, including by
healthcare workers seeking medical help, further exacerbating the psychological
and emotional effects of the virus.
It is crucial to understand the multifaceted effects of the pandemic on
individuals. The physical symptoms of the virus are well-documented, but the
psychological and emotional tolls are equally significant. Providing support and
empathy for those affected can help alleviate some of these impacts.
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Additionally, promoting healthy coping strategies and educating the public on the
realities of the virus can help reduce discrimination and fear-based behaviors
towards COVID-19 patients. Furthermore, healthcare workers must be trained to
provide compassionate care and recognize the emotional and psychological
effects of COVID-19 on their patients. By prioritizing the holistic well-being of
those affected by the pandemic, we can better navigate the ongoing challenges
of this global health crisis.
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Chapter 3
RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
This chapter presents the research methodology needed in conducting
this study. It gives information on the research techniques needed to select the
study sample and the collection and analysis of data. It also presents the
overview of the research locale which is the municipality of Tandag, province of
Surigao del Sur as well as the people involved in the coronavirus survivor.
Research Design
We used a qualitative research design through narrative study. In
narrative research, we described the lives of individuals, collected and told
stories about people’s lives, and wrote narratives of individual experiences. We
collected data through methods such as conducting interviews, taking notes,
audio recording, and observations. Moreover, in this research design, we asked
coronavirus survivors about things related to their lived experiences in order to
understand how they coped with the challenge of having a Covid-19 disease.
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Research Locale
The study was specifically conducted in Barangay Quezon, which is one
of the 21 barangays and a part of Tandag City, the capital city of the province of
Surigao Del Sur. The selection of the participant was based on the criteria set by
the researchers and their suitability for the study. The participant was
interviewed in their house or any comfortable place they preferred, ensuring their
convenience and privacy.
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Figure 2. Map of Tandag City, Surigao del Sur
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Research Participants
In this study, we chose a coronavirus survivor residing in the locality of
the city of Tandag who had various experiences with Covid-19 as the participant.
We selected a survivor who had been hospitalized with Covid-19, had already
recovered from the disease, coped with the effects, and was willing to share
his/her experiences. We also ensured that the chosen coronavirus survivor was
honest and gave credible information during the interview that we conducted.
Sampling Design
The study used purposive sampling to select the participant. A purposive
sample is a non-probability sample that is selected based on the characteristics
of a population and the objective of the study. Purposive sampling is also known
as judgmental, selective, or subjective sampling (Crossman, 2018).
We first chose a qualified participant, at least 40 years old, from the
locality of the City of Tandag, who had various experiences with Covid-19. We
used purposive sampling to investigate the experiences of a coronavirus
survivor.
Research Instrument
In the conduct of the study, the primary tool used by the researchers to
gather data was through an in-depth interview, specifically a researchers-made
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interview. A semi-structured and open-ended format was used to give the
participant the opportunity and space to provide detailed responses. This
allowed the researchers to explore further their responses and to obtain more
accurate and noteworthy understanding about the lived experiences of the
coronavirus survivor.
Validation of Instrument
To determine whether the researchers-made interview questionnaire was
relevant and reliable, the researchers asked for validation from people who had
expertise in this field to ensure the validity, quality, and effectiveness of the
research instrument. The questionnaire undergo face and content validation.
After validation, the researchers improved the instrument for the conduct of the
study.
Data Gathering Procedure
In gathering the needed data, the researchers followed the following
procedures:
Permission. To start the study, we sought approval from the principal of
Tandag National Science High School and the Superintendent of Tandag City.
Upon approval, we presented the approval letter to the coronavirus survivor and
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explained the purpose of the study. We let the chosen participant sign a consent
letter during the conduct of this study.
Fieldwork. We went to the participant's residence and conducted an
interview.
In-depth interview. We used this type of interview to explore the
respondent’s own perceptions and accounts. This method was important for us
to understand in-depth. The interview aimed to know more about the lived
experiences, struggles, and coping strategies of the coronavirus survivor when
they were infected with Covid-19.
Observations. Observations were needed in gathering data and
information. During data collection, direct observations were necessary to
develop complete and well-arranged information. Both the researcher and
research participant observed health protocols, such as frequent hand washing,
wearing face masks, and maintaining at least one-meter physical distance from
others.
Informed Written Consent. The researcher provided a written consent
form for the participant to read, understand, and sign. The informed written
consent was an essential step in ensuring that the research study was
conducted in an ethical and responsible manner, while also protecting the rights
and interests of the participant.
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Data Analysis
Using Colaizzi’s method of data analysis which is a rigorous and robust
qualitative method, the researchers aimed to understand, think, describe, depict
on the lived experiences and perceptions from each participant. This method
ensured researchers that the experience of the participant will enable knowledge
and provide insights to researchers that will able to interpret emerging themes
and interlinking relationships of the data gathered.
Ethical Considerations
The study was guided by ethical considerations on research involving
human participants set out by the researchers. Before conducting any research
activities, the researchers explained the criteria and purpose of the study to the
participants. The researchers also considered the convenience of the
participants when taking audio, pictures, and other information. The participants
were informed that they have the right to withdraw from the research study
whenever they wish to do so.
The researchers ensured the confidentiality of the research participants
and kept their identities private. Offensive, discriminatory, or other unacceptable
language was avoided during the interviews. The privacy and anonymity of the
participants were of paramount importance. The researchers made sure to avoid
any type of misleading information or representation of primary data findings in a
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biased way. They also acknowledged the works of other authors used in any
part of the dissertation following the APA guidelines.
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32
APPENDICES
33
Appendix A.1
34
Letter of Permission to the School Principal to Conduct the Study
Appendix B.1
35
Validation Letter
36
Appendix B.2
Validation Letter
37
Appendix B.3
Validation Letter
38
Appendix C
Structured Interview Guide
LIVED EXPERIENCE OF CORONAVIRUS SURVIVOR IN TANDAG CITY:

A NARRATIVE STUDY
A pleasant day to you, Miss/ Sir. We appreciate your participation and for
giving us the opportunity to interview you. We are from Tandag National Science
High School. I am ___________ together with my co-researchers ___________.
Considering that this is part of our study, we would like to know your experiences
specifically your challenges that you have encountered as a coronavirus survivor.
For your awareness, we would to ask your permission to record our
conversation to cover all the information needed. Moreover, we assure you that
this conversation will remain confidential.
1. How did having the coronavirus change the survivor’s views in life and
relationship with other people/social life?
1.1. How coronavirus change your views in life and your relationship with
other people?
2. What are the challenges that the coronavirus survivor experienced
39
2.1. Could you describe in detail the challenges you faced as a COVID-19
survivor, and how did they affect you?
3. How did the coronavirus survivor cope up with the complications and
health problems that were brought by the virus?
3.1. How did you cope up with complications and health problems that
were brought by the virus?
3.2 What specific measures did you take to cope with the health problems
caused by COVID-19, and how effective it is?
3.3 How did you overcome the challenges of being a covid survivor during
pandemic?
40
41
Appendix D.1
Validation Sheet
42
43
Appendix D.2
Validation Sheet
44
45
Appendix D.3
Validation Sheets
46
Appendix E
INFORMED WRITTEN CONSENT
You have been asked to participate in a one-on-one interview regarding

your lived experience as a coronavirus survivor. The purpose of this study is to
understand your challenges and coping mechanisms in dealing with the
aftermath of the illness. It is desired that with this discussion, concrete evidence
of the impact of COVID-19 on individuals will be produced, based on your
personal perceptions and experiences. More importantly, you have the
opportunity to review the transcripts of the interview and make any necessary
adjustments and suggestions before we use the information.
You can choose whether or not to participate in the interview and stop at
any time. We are also asking for your permission to allow us to take a video or
record the audio of our conversation. This is because we cannot write everything
and are afraid of missing some important points. Your responses will be digitally
recorded but you will remain anonymous, and no names will be mentioned in the
report.
There are no right or wrong answers to the interview questions. We would
like to hear different viewpoints from you. We hope you can be honest in sharing
your responses to us. If you grant us permission, please inform us the most
convenient schedule when we can conduct the interview. You are free to set the
interview schedule at any time of your convenience. Please let us know by
indicating your preferred schedule below.
By signing below, you acknowledge that you have read and understood
the purpose and nature of this study, and voluntarily give your informed consent
to participate.
Preferred schedule: __________
47
Preferred venue: ____________
I understand this information and agree to participate fully under the

conditions stated above:
Signed: _________________
Date: ___________________
48
CURRICULUM VITAE
Name: Patrick Ivan C. Cuabo
Gender: Male
Date of Birth: July 19, 2005
Address: Purok Kalipayan, Barangay
Bungtod, Tandag City,
Surigao Del Sur
Father’s Name: Norman G. Cuabo
Mother’s Name: Evalyn C. Cuabo
Educational Background
Senior High School : Tandag National Science High School
: 2021 up to present
Junior High School : Saint Theresa College Inc
: 2020
Elementary : Special Science Elementary School
: 2017
49
CURRICULUM VITAE
Name: Marjun I. Comparativo
Gender: Male
Date of Birth: December 28, 2004
Address: Purok Santol 3, Barangay
Bioto, Tandag City,
Surigao del Sur
Father’s Name: Junjun G. Comparativo
Mother’s Name: Marilyn I. Comprativo
Junior High School : Saint Theresa College Inc
: 2020
Elementary : Tandag Pilot Elementary School
: 2017
50
CURRICULUM VITAE
Name: Mika Ela D. Fegi
Gender: Female
Date of Birth: May 27, 2005
Address: Purok Kahayag, Barangay
Quezon, Tandag City,
Surigao del Sur
Father’s Name: Melchor B. Fegi
Mother’s Name: Arlyn D. Fegi
Junior High School : Gigaquit National School of Home
Industries
: 2020
Elementary : Gigaquit Central Elementary School
: 2017
51
CURRICULUM VITAE
Name: Ericka L. Figuracion
Gender: Female
Address: Purok Tabing Dagat,
Barangay Mabua,
Tandag City, Surigao del Sur
Father’s Name: Eric S. Figuracion
Mother’s Name: Merlyn L. Figuracion
Junior High School : Jacinto P. Elpa National High School
: 2020
Elementary : Rosario Integrated School
: 2017
52
CURRICULUM VITAE
Name: Maegan E. Gepana
Gender: Female
Address: Purok Santan, Barangay Quezon, Tandag City, Surigao del
Sur
Father’s Name: Dante D. Gepana
Mother’s Name: Maricel E. Gepana
Junior High School : Vicente L Pimentel Sr. National High School
: 2020
Elementary : Lapinigan Central Elementary School
: 2017
53
CURRICULUM VITAE
Name: Lea G. Laro
Gender: Female
Date of Birth: November 11, 2004
Address: Purok Santan, Barangay
Surigao del Sur
Father’s Name: Nilo S. Laro
Mother’s Name: Ma. Rica G. Laro
Junior High School : Vicente L Pimentel Sr. National High School
: 2020
Elementary : Quezon Elementary School
: 2017
54
CURRICULUM VITAE
Name: Jeany A. Miras
Gender: Female
Date of Birth: April 14, 2005
Address: Purok Comet, Barangay
Telaje, Tandag City,
Surigao del Sur
Father’s Name: Jesser O. Miras
Mother’s Name: Evelyn A. Auguis
Junior High School : Jacinto P. Elpa National High School
: 2020
Elementary : Quintos Elementary School
: 2017
55
CURRICULUM VITAE
Name: Pricel P. Portillo
Gender: Male
Date of Birth: April 14, 2005
Address: Purok Boombelles Black 1,
Barangay Awasian ,
Tandag City Surigao del Sur
Father’s Name: Albert M. Portillo
Mother’s Name: Merryn P. Portillo
Junior High School : Vicente L. Pimentel Sr. National High School
: 2020
Elementary : Awasian Elementary school
: 2017
56
CURRICULUM VITAE
Name: Anna Jane M. Suarez
Gender: Female
Date of Birth: November 18, 2004
Address: Purok Malipayon, Barangay
Surigao del Sur
Father’s Name: Juanito B. Suarez
Mother’s Name: Gloria M. Suarez
Junior High School : Vicente L. Pimentel Sr. National High School
: 2020
Elementary : Quezon Elementary School
: 2017
57
CURRICULUM VITAE
Name: Glenn Joshua M. Teñozo
Gender: Male
Date of Birth: October 6,2004
Address: Purok Sinugdanan, Barangay
Bongtud, Tandag City,
Surigao del Sur
Father’s Name: Glenn L. Teñozo
Mother’s Name: Cherilyn M. Teñozo
Junior High School : Saint Theresa College of Tandag INC.
: 2020
Elementary : Tandag Pilot Elementary School
: 2017
58
59

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Republic of the Philippines

HUMANITIES AND SOCIAL SCIENCES STRAND

In our society today Coronavirus disease is still a very rampant and

the time of infection, it also leaves permanent or long-lasting conditions to the

people around them (Gardha, 2022).

concentrating, depression, muscle pain, headache, rapid heartbeat, and

HUMANITIES AND SOCIAL SCIENCES STRAND

problems, heart complications, chronic kidney impairment, stroke, and Guillain-

Barre syndrome — a condition that causes temporary paralysis.

blogs/youtube videos of the recovered patients/ Corona survivors about their

might deem it unnecessary, but it is a relevant topic in our society especially

HUMANITIES AND SOCIAL SCIENCES STRAND

To support some details, this study anchors to the Social Cognitive

regulation operates through major sub functions as a self-governing system.

infected with COVID-19.

mechanisms of coronavirus survivors in dealing with the physical and

study can contribute to the development of interventions and support systems

mechanisms to changing circumstances, which can inform the development of

HUMANITIES AND SOCIAL SCIENCES STRAND

This study also anchors to the Socio-Psychological Theory, asserts that

this interaction, the personality of an individual is determined. The considered

application of pertinent and Socio-Psychological theory in the pandemic is

particularly important because the responses of many governments appear at

times to have been informed by flawed psychological assumptions based around

COVID-19, and it plays an important role in shaping the personality of an

can help them cope up on certain circumstances they will undergo.

HUMANITIES AND SOCIAL SCIENCES STRAND

• Effects of Covid-19 to the

HUMANITIES AND SOCIAL SCIENCES STRAND

Schematic Diagram of the Study

and the necessary data to be collected to successfully create the study.

The first box shows the different experiences of a coronavirus survivor. It

includes the effects of covid-19 to the survivor, challenges and coping

survivor which is the expected output of this study.

Statement of the Problem

This study is conducted in order to know the lived experiences of

coronavirus survivor, in Tandag City. Moreover, it shall seek to answer the

relationship with other people/social life?

problems that were brought by the virus?

HUMANITIES AND SOCIAL SCIENCES STRAND

Significance of the Study

coronavirus survivor. After gathering all significant information this would be

beneficial to the following:

effective set of protocols to implement during the COVID-19 pandemic, and to

legislate laws to protect the survivors of COVID-19.

themselves to be stricter in following the correct protocols to avoid the virus. It

needed to complete their study.

Scope and Limitation of the Study

This study is only centered on the lived experiences of coronavirus

challenges that they experienced being a COVID-19 positive patient. The

HUMANITIES AND SOCIAL SCIENCES STRAND

questionnaire to assess the experiences of a Covid-19 survivor. The key

limitations of time and resources the study is conducted in May 2023.

that are reflected in this study.

Challenges. Something that needs great mental or physical effort in order

to be done successfully and therefore test a person’s ability.

Coping Mechanism. Any conscious or non-conscious adjustment or

adaption that decreases tension and anxiety in a stressful experience or

Coronavirus. Refers to the crown-like projections on the pathogen’s

surface. “Corona” in Latin means “halo” or “crown”. It is a family of viruses that

cause illness such as common cold, sinuses, or upper throat.

COVID Survivors. A person who tested positive for coronavirus and/or