Anything is possible

Being the jaded journalist that I am, I find myself cringing whenever I hear the phrase “Anything is possible.” It sounds too much like an opening speech gone bad.

Yesterday, I heard it again during a Go Negosyo even that I covered. This time, however, I couldn’t quite argue against the motherhood cliché with my usual skepticism. The subject of the speech spoke more than the three-word-phrase that I usually scoff at.

Picture this: five persons with disabilities who have successfully run their own businesses for many years against all odds.

I met Juan “Dickoy” Magdaraog who was in his wheelchair the whole time and had tubes attached to his nostrils, but had so much dignity in the way he talked, smiled and related to people.

Dickoy has been battling Pompe disease for the last 18 years. Pompe disease is a rare and recessive genetic mutation that disables the heart and muscles. But this did not stop him from setting up Sparkplug Studios and using his skills as its creative director.

“Work has always been a big part of my life. I can honestly look at myself in the mirror and say I’m worth something. I contribute to this world we live,” he said.

I was inspired by the outgoing personality of Maria Gilda Quintua (fourth from right), who took her trophy at the stage with the ease and gracefulness of the latest Miss Universe. Gilda is deaf and mute, but successfully runs MGLQ Deaf Tour Assistance. As head tour guide, Gilda ‘talks’ to people from Malaysia, Hong Kong, Pakistan, and Japan. Also, there are clients coming from Germany, New Zealand, Canada, and the USA much better than hearing people, if what I saw yesterday was any indication.

DCRB Photography Services’ top photographer is deaf, but books three to four weddings monthly. Dennis Balan (fifth from right) may not be able to hear spoons clicking against glasses or the “You may kiss the bride” pronouncements that photographers watch out for to know when to prepare for the next magic moment to capture on camera, but that doesn’t deter him from being good at what he does.

Antonio Llanes Jr. (sixth from right), president of ATRIEV has a natural knack for anything technical and repairs audio equipment, refrigerators and even computers. How he does that with his poor vision is beyond me, but from the looks of his business, he is doing great. Definitely, poor vision did not stop him from enjoying the awarding yesterday, as he was the only one dancing to the music while everyone was preparing for the photo shoot.

Everybody knows Tahanang Walang Hagdan and its inspiring 34-year journey from a small organization that provides livelihood opportunities for persons with disabilities into a business entity that now exports its woodcraft, metalcraft, furniture, educational items and corporate giveaways. Jocelyn Garcia (third from left), who runs TWH, has for years taught those who are in wheelchairs that they can stand even if their legs are impaired.

These five businessmen turned the tables on their perceived disabilities and proved that they can do even better than many “normal” persons. Presidential consultant for entrepreneurship Jose Conception III said if they can do it, why can’t all of us. But Figaro Coffee President Pacita Juan’s statement said it all:

“Sometimes, we think we are disabled, but we really aren’t. In fact, sometimes the real disability is here (pointing to her temple).”

Indeed, anything is possible if we can get our minds to accept it.

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