“We rise to great heights by a winding staircase of small steps.” – Francis Bacon

In these changing times, particularly the havoc that was brought by the coronavirus/Covid-19 pandemic which halted the day-to-day regular activities in general. Life as we know it was forever changed.

The daily activities and special events that were previously held at the Elsie Gaches Village (EGV) for the betterment and welfare of the clients were also put to a stop, like the conduct of parties that were looked forward to by everyone. Also, the prohibition of visitors from mingling with the residents of the center took a toll on the expectations of such residents, as they are most welcoming of donors and visitors which eases their longing and sadness. As a result, most of the residents were just staying at their respective cottages, doing menial tasks and cottage chores.

Such closure has affected the residents who are looking forward to enjoyment and parties to lessen the boredom. However, one of the programs and services offered by the center under the Productivity Service which provides productive activities for functional residents and opportunities for training and enhancement of their livelihood skills.

This year, the center cannot accommodate visitors to conduct parties for precautionary measures and prevention from COVID-19. Nonetheless, one resident of EGV is more than ready to embrace the innovative ways of being productive; his name is Michael Fabella, an EGV resident housed at San Alfonso Cottage.

Before Michael was admitted to EGV, he was rescued by the MMDA Rescue Team on June 14, 2008, around the area of Baclaran. For temporary placement, he was immediately turned over to Jose Fabella Center (JFC) located at Correctional Road, Mandaluyong City. Based on the findings, his condition is Down syndrome. Jose Fabella Center referred him to Elsie Gaches Village for proper case disposition on May 9, 2009.

   

What is compelling about Michael is his own take on life. As we all know, one’s deportment and character can alter every aspect of a person’s life. Michael’s perspective on this determines his ability and willingness to learn and be proactive in his daily tasks.

Michael is a trustee in San Alfonso cottage where he stays and he is able to assist the houseparent on duty. Michael is independent in basic hygiene such as bathing, and toilet training; eats independently during meal time, and is able to assist his co-residents. Inside the cottage, he is able to follow simple instructions and perform basic household chores, and can accomplish basic tasks. In terms of social skills, Michael is also capable and well-mannered in relating with others. He loves dancing especially being the center of attention. During socialization activities particularly sports/ physical activities, Michael showed initiative and competitiveness. He is able to lead his group during social integration.  Michael is also able to express his wants. He has knowledge or is able to identify basic colors, and letters and recognize the names of familiar people. Michael can be trained in other areas of pre-academics.

Michael is a resident male with Down syndrome who had been in Elsie Gaches Village for almost 11 years, with the different therapeutic activities conducted in the center in which Michael is included, his involvement and active participation, and willingness to learn different trainings. His capacity in performing different activities as well as tasks has properly and gradually improved. He shows confidence in his performance every time there are activities in the center despite his situation as well as his intellectual disability.

At present Michael was placed at the Productivity Service, he has his own garden where he takes good care of his assigned vegetable plot that he planted on his own. As well as joining in candle-making activities from Monday to Friday with the assistance and support of the Staff of the Productivity Service. Michael shows not only determination and willingness during his assigned tasks but also his positive attitude and outlook in life in attending to these different productive skills.

Life as we know it is much different from the aftermath of this pandemic, everyone must be able to cope and adapt to the new normal. As has been proven by Michael, no amount of outside circumstances can hinder his willingness to be productive and develop his skills and all we need to do is to adapt with the same resolved and steadfastness as Michael have and be sensitive to their needs as individuals as they become and integrate as a functioning member of the society. ###