Thank you so much for taking the time to talk with me about your experience as an Ebola survivor. I am in awe of your strength and your openness to sharing your story. I am going to ask you questions about your physical, emotional, psychological and spiritual health. It's possible that these questions will take you back to difficult moments of struggle and loss. I will also ask you to delve into your grief so that I can better understand how to interview Ebola survivors in the future. With the information you provide me today, I will develop a toolkit for reporters who are covering Ebola. I hope that these guidelines will help the media industry become more sensitive and less sensational. I will not include your name in the materials and will only share this interview with my professor. If you feel uncomfortable with any of the questions I'm asking you, just let me know. I don't want this interview to be traumatic. We can skip over or amend any questions that might be difficult for you. If you decide that you don't want to continue with the interview any longer, just let me know. Your participation is completely voluntary. You are also welcome to invite a family member or friend to be present for the interview.
What I would add if this interview were going to lead to an article:
I'd also like to take a moment to talk about how I will confirm information you tell me. Part of being a reporter requires that I verify and vet accounts and facts. I have to be sure everything in the article is accurate. It is important for both of us that I tell the story well and that I tell it right. I might ask you to help put me in touch with people or ask you how you know certain things. I am not doubting you. I am working to ensure that I tell the best possible story. The reporting process takes time. I will respect your time, but I also need to be up front with you about the reality of the process. I will ask you for assistance from time to time and will ask for additional information. Editors might also call you as we get closer to the deadline. Additionally, if I ever use a term you are unfamiliar with, please let me know, and I will explain it.
I am honored to have the opportunity to hear your story. Thank you for trusting me with it. Shall we begin?
What I would add if this interview were going to lead to an article:
I'd also like to take a moment to talk about how I will confirm information you tell me. Part of being a reporter requires that I verify and vet accounts and facts. I have to be sure everything in the article is accurate. It is important for both of us that I tell the story well and that I tell it right. I might ask you to help put me in touch with people or ask you how you know certain things. I am not doubting you. I am working to ensure that I tell the best possible story. The reporting process takes time. I will respect your time, but I also need to be up front with you about the reality of the process. I will ask you for assistance from time to time and will ask for additional information. Editors might also call you as we get closer to the deadline. Additionally, if I ever use a term you are unfamiliar with, please let me know, and I will explain it.
I am honored to have the opportunity to hear your story. Thank you for trusting me with it. Shall we begin?
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