Kailangang Mangarap!

By: Cathy Genovia ASP Program Assistant

October is fast approaching. ASP Trustees were wrapping up the board meeting by lunch time. Everyone is busy preparing for the upcoming Autism Beyond Borders Conference on October 24-25 at SMX, Convention Center and the Post Conference Workshops on October 26-27 at Skydome, SM City North EDSA.

The early bird August 22 Family Support Group participants waited anxiously inside our humble office, while we distributed flyers of the upcoming conference. ASP Executive Director, Ranil Sorongon introduced and welcomed the participants, six mothers, a father and an aunt together with this month’s facilitator, Ms. Barbara Lu.

Participants of the Family Support Group

Ms. Babsie is the co-founder of SPARKS (a social group for children with ASD), and supportive mom of Bryan. (Bryan is a member of the SPARKLE Band, the latest Philippine pop music sensation composed of teens with autism.)

Sharing her experiences raising Bryan, led to the open exchange of ideas between the parents, which made the meeting very light. The meeting was also an eye-opener for some, who realized that it is not right to be ashamed of their child with autism.

Babsie emphasized: “There are so many things to look forward to and many opportunities available to help improve the life of our child with autism. We have to think positive.” New parents have now a better understanding of their kids.

After the said meeting, feedback forms were collected. And as I was reading them, this one really touched my heart “… Kailangan nating mangarap para sa anak natin at kailangan simulan natin un ngayon…” (We need to dream for our children and the time is NOW!)

Those simple words made me appreciate the meaning of SHARING HOPES, BUILDING DREAMS. I am proud to be witnessing parents building dreams for their kids and as a member of ASP family, building dreams with them. Hope to see you in the September 19 Family Support Group.