Bryan Simara, 32 years old, is an active officer of National Vocational and Rehabilitation Center (NVRC) Alumni Association. He also works as Data Entry Machine Operator in the Department of Education – National Capital Region (DepED-NCR). Moreover, he sends her siblings to school. What makes his story interesting is that he is able to do all of these despite his disability.

At age 10, Bryan had Cavernous Hemangioma, a type of blood vessel malformation where a collection of dilated blood vessels form a tumor which affects the eye. In his case, right eye was affected. When his parents separated, he and his siblings did everything to survive in a daily basis. He engaged in different jobs such as construction worker, painter, dryer operator, and barber, among others to provide their needs.

Moreover, one of his neighbors informed him about the programs and services of the NVRC which is being managed by the Department of Social Welfare and Development – National Capital Region (DSWD-NCR). With the goal to improve his skills, he started training at the center in 2006 but was disrupted because he had to undergo medication for pulmonary tuberculosis. When he got well, he resumed his training on Computer Software.

He had his on-the-job Training at the DepED-NCR and eventually was absorbed on contractual basis in 2007 up to present. His job involves clerical work such as filing, encoding and other administrative tasks. He earns enough money for his family. He is thankful for the benefits of the trainings he had. He plans to take and pass the Civil Service Commission exam as he is aiming for a regular position in DepED-NCR.

Through his unrelenting dedication, hard work and determination, his brother was able to graduate and earned a college degree. Bryan actively participates and organizes different activities for persons with disabilities like him as his way of showing gratitude to NVRC. His disability will never be a hindrance to be successful in life. ###