Beyond the Medal: How Our Lady’s Gift is a Conduit of Guidance and Maternal Intervention
Date Posted: November 21, 2024 at 08:49 AM
Rooted in a strong family tradition of devotion, school nurse Mary Jane Sumalabe credits her ability to serve the community to her deep faith in the intercession of the Blessed Mother. Her long-standing connection to the spiritual graces of Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal provides her with reassurance and guidance, helping her fulfill her responsibilities with confidence and purpose.
“Ang importante lang, hinihingi ko na pag may dumating kami na mga cases, magkaroon ako ng lakas, ng confidence to do what is right para sa pasyente. And then, kung kulang yung alam ko, na i-supplement ako ni Mama Mary ng kailangan kong grace para ma-perform ko ng tama ang aking obligasyon.”
Serving the community’s healthcare needs places a significant responsibility on Nurse Jane to perform her duties with both precision and grace. Beyond her professional skills, she strives to bring a spirit of patience and selflessness to her work, embodying the Our Lady’s maternal care in her approach. For her, attending to students means prioritizing their well-being above all, responding with medical expertise a compassionate heart.
Despite her years of experience, Nurse Jane admits there are moments when she still feels overwhelmed and uncertain. “Sa totoo lang, takot din ako. Pag may mga nadidisgrasyang bata ditto. Takot ako dahil nga doon sa experience ko before -- na baka magkamali [ako].”

However, she shared that turning to prayer nurtures her connection to divine guidance, providing the wisdom and strength she needs most to fulfill her duties with confidence and care.
“I'll just say, ‘Mama Mary, tulungan nyo po ako, please.’ O kaya, ‘Lord, please, mauna ka sa akin. [...] And then, bigla na lang ‘yan okay na. Nagagawa naman nang maayos.”
With all she has accomplished, she firmly believes the medal inspires her to live a life of compassion and care for others. The presence of Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal has given her confidence and resilience in facing challenges, equipping her to navigate difficulties more effectively. Her devotion has been a guiding force in making sound decisions during tough times, and the Blessed Mother's protection empowers her to work with focus and maintain calm under pressure.
“I do not rely sa kung anong meron ako. Pero kung anong grasya ang ibibigay sa'kin [at the] moment.”