“It’s our civic duty to assist scientific endeavours,” she said.

“It’s the only way our world can be saved.”

Vettorel affirmed this belief by participating in the recent trial of a COVID-19 vaccine, staged by the University of Queensland.

Though this Australian vaccine was one of the first to pass stringent laboratory testing and progress to experimental trials on humans, it did not achieve the desired results.

In some cases, the vaccine caused recipients to return false-positive results for HIV.

This dissuaded the Australian government from producing the vaccine, as scientists feared that misinformation surrounding its effects would cause a surge in anti-vaccination efforts.

Vetterol responded to the initial appeal from scientists who were seeking volunteers to trial the vaccine.

“I’ve always been receptive to scientific research,” she said.

“I believe that it’s my duty to help others.

“That’s why I’m a registered blood, bone marrow and organ donor.”

This inherent altruism prompted Vetterol to respond to the University of Queensland’s callout.

“Q-Pharm, the organisation that manages human trials of new therapies and drugs, was looking for healthy adults who could test the vaccine,” she said.

“This was July of last year and I felt that, in my own small way, I could help the fight against COVID-19.”

Vetterol was not afraid of receiving the vaccine.

“In the preliminary meeting, Q-Pharm explained the entire process and answered all our questions,” she said.

“We were able to stop at any time and we had 24/7 access to assistance via a direct line.

“After the preliminary exams, we were injected with the first dose.

“Throughout the trial, I went back to the clinic 17 times to monitor the vaccine’s effects and progress.

“I kept a diary to record any symptoms I experienced, as they had asked us to, but I had none.”

Vetterol’s choice to participate in the trial was supported by her partner, Michele.

“At first I was sceptical and a little worried, but Elena and her family were so calm,” Michele said.

“I didn’t want to instil doubt in her mind because she was so courageous and selfless.

“She taught me a very important life lesson.”

Vetterol’s trust in science is so unwavering that she didn’t worry about the trial.

“This type of trial is safe,” she said.

“Human trials are only approved once the regulatory bodies are sure that no serious side-effects could occur.

“I’m proud to have participated in this study and I encourage everyone to visit the Q-Pharm website.

“There are many studies you can participate in, from ones that focus on asthma to dermatological problems.”

Vetterol urged the public to contribute to the advancement of science, as their help could potentially save lives.

“There’s a great need for blood donors in Australia,” she said.

“One in three Australians will need blood during their lives, but only one in 30 is a donor.

“Everyone who can should come forward, plus, as a bonus, you can take a paid day off and enjoy a delicious Red Cross breakfast.”