... PWDs ...

The walk-for-a-cause staged last July 19 as part of the celebration of the National Disability Prevention and Rehabilitation week is a considerable success. It is a non-political march of persons on wheelchair, in crutches, blinds with white walking sticks and guides, other persons with disabilities, and able-bodied supporters sympathetic to the cause of the sector. The march is a challenge in itself, like most of the days in a PWD’s life. Maybe it was just a small number but it definitely showed how big the hearts of the participants are. The distance traveled, the potholes, the ups and down of the road and the peril of meandering in between vehicles remind me of how our lives are.

I thought those in wheelchair are better off but they have to strain harder to propel uphill. The blinds are impressive, with their walking sticks and trusted guides, they pressed on in a steady manner. Those in crutches showed their determination, with sweat trickling down their foreheads they ambled on. And the supporters are with us all the way. And we persevered to get where we want to be.

If the information is correct, the move last July 19 is unprecedented. This is a bolder act of advocacy for the proper implementation of the accessibility law. Honestly, I am not looking forward in doing this again, it’s a real sacrifice for most of us and it will mean that the authorities have failed. But if necessary I will do it again. It makes me feel proud that we are taking initiative and assuming an active role regarding issues concerning us.

This is a trait Independent Living philosophy is instilling to its adherents. We should be self-responsible. Charity is good and is always welcome. But we have to change the perception that our sector is always a charity case. Our sector is no longer just waiting for others to take notice of our plight. We can still think and decide. Who is better equipped to know what our problems are than we who are experiencing them?

All activities in celebration of the NDPR week encompassed different aspects of our lives. The job fair presented new opportunities for livelihood. The showcasing of skills and talents in sports, arts and entertainment promoted public awareness. This also provided inspiration to fellow PWDs’ and able-bodied individuals alike. In all of these, we had fun, an indispensable element to enjoy life.