MANILA, Philippines - Difficult situations are inevitable factors in a person’s life. These moments come like a looming storm — dark, strong, and can wreak indefinable havoc in our lives if we are unprepared to face them. As a parent to a special child, there will always be moments where we are left dumbfounded, helpless, and unable to control the situation.
Last May 12, parents of children with developmental disabilities had the opportunity to talk to popular inspirational speaker Francis Kong and Mary Lorraine Tiongson-Ortiz, vice president of the Down Syndrome Association of the Philippines, during the Parent Support Group at Reach School International.
“People have different ways of dealing with tragic experiences. I would think that parents with special children face a different, if not altogether more challenging, battle,” says Kong. “I believe that people can find a way to look at things differently, and turn difficult moments into a blessing.”
Kong is an award-winning journalist and a very gifted public speaker. In 2007, his radio program Business Matters was given a special citation by the Catholic Mass Media Awards. He regularly gives business tips in his column in The Philippine STAR. He is also a regular guest in the early morning TV program Umagang Kay Ganda.
Ortiz, on the other hand, is an interior designer, a businesswoman, and the author of Embracing God’s Purpose for My Special Child. As a proud mother of three wonderful kids, she spends her free time helping other families who also have children with Down Syndrome through the Down Syndrome Association of the Philippines.
“I believe that special children are proof that life has many beautiful miracles,” Ortiz shares. “I admit that there have been many obstacles in the past, but this has made my journey with my special son all the more meaningful. I would be happy to share stories with other parents.”
The Center for Possibilities, Inc. Parent Support Group was held at Reach School International, 67 Paseo de Roxas St., Makati City. To know more about the foundation, visit www.possibilitiescenter.org.