The Saint Regis Mohawk Tribe is sharing a personal story from someone who tested positive for COVID-19, the disease caused by the coronavirus.
“Shekon, I would like to share my story to help alleviate some of the fears and concerns of the community,” the account begins, using the Mohawk word for “Greetings.”
The person began exhibiting symptoms on March 15, more than two weeks ago. But the individual wasn’t able to get tested until March 19, and even then, the result didn’t come back positive until March 27. A day later, the tribe was able to confirm the case to community members in New York and in neighboring Canada.
“As of today, I have not had symptoms for 12 days,” the person writes in the account, which was posted on the tribe’s social media page on March 30, 2020.
“I wanted to share with you the message of hope that this proves that people can overcome it,” the person adds “I know the severity of the virus and how it may affect people differently. That’s why I followed the protocol to self-quarantine.”
In a March 30 state of emergency operational briefing, the tribe reported that 2 additional people are in self-isolation, along with the 1 confirmed case in Franklin County, New York. It appears these individuals may be part of the person’s family.
“My family has also been in quarantine for the recommended time frame. They are all fine with no symptoms after 15 days of quarantine,” the account reads.
“We are continuing to follow CDC self-isolation guidelines and will continue to do so. I hope this alleviates your concerns and fears,” the person writes.
“I know fear can consume a community, but please remember that I am a person, I’m someone’s child, I matter. To read some of the negative comments on social media were hurtful and unnecessary,” the account continues. I did not intentionally get infected and would never put anyone’s well-being at risk. I”magine if this happened to you. What would you do and how would you feel?”
“Please don’t let this happen to you but if it does, my hope is that your community would offer you support and compassion not blame and disdain. Please stay home, wash your hands, stay safe. Nia:wen,” it concludes, with the Mohawk word for “Thank you.”
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