2005 is coming to a close and it’s that time of the year to reflect on the the year that was and examine the blessings that have been given.
To be honest, at the onset of 2005 I felt sad and wasn’t really looking forward to it. Why? Well, December 2004 I found out that a project that we were working on will be cut short. For what reasons I don’t want to speculate anymore. It was sad because I really enjoyed working with the people on the team. People I really respect. Apart from that I was making good money with the project which afforded me a chance to own one of my dream gadgets, a Powerbook. So 2004 didn’t close all that well with the loss of that job.
In January 2005, I was at a assembly. My friend gave a talk and I remember her saying that while 2004 was great, 2005 promises to be even greater. With her words in my mind, I started to be hopefull that 2005 would be great. You know what? It did turn out great. Not exactly what I had in mind but fantastic nonetheless. Let me recap the highlights of 2005.
1. *Various speaking engagements* – I was fortunate enough to start out the year with some speaking engagements. I’ve always made it a point to accept speaking engagements because it provides me a venue to share my message across. I’m also flattered that people actually want to listen to what I have to say. In January I had the chance to talk at a major event called “Pinoy Unleashed” produced by Unleash International. This was an event to launch a programe that they have. It was also aimed to inspire people to maximize their potentials and become better persons. Believe it or not I was in the company of very important and successful people such as Tony Tan Caktiong, founder and chairman of Jollibee, the number 1 fast food chain in the Philippines. and many other distinguished men and women who spoke at the event.
In relation to that I was also invited to talk at Jollibee’s annual convention on February. I was happy to have gotten a chance to be part of that event. I saw why Jollibee is considered as one of the best company’s to work for in the Philippines.
For a second year in a row I was also a speaker at the LEAP Congress. An event put together by Innerwheel Club of Makati North. The goal of the event is to inspire the youth to become leaders.
Apart from this three major events I was also fortunate enough to speak for CLPs of Singles For Christ. This has been something I’ve been doing regularly for the past few years. A way of serving God and giving back to the community.
2. *Sparkplug Studios* – In June 2005, we transitioned to a new company that I, together with my brother and some other friends put up. It’s a design company that focuses on Web and Graphic design. We also plan to focus on User Experience. I’m very happy with the birth of our new company, especially because it gives me an opportunity to work with my brother and becoming an entrepreneur.
3. *Distinguished Alumni Award* – My alma matter, DLSU-College of Saint Benilde bestowed upon me the honor of being the first ever recipient of the Distinguished Alumni Award. This came as a total surprise to me. There are a lot of other qualified candidates for this award but somehow they chose to give it to me. I am forever indebted to my school for provideing me an education and for accommodating my special circumstance. I am what I am today in part because of my school.
4. *Writing for MPH* – This year I fulfilled one of my dreams of writing on a much more regular basis. I’d like to thank the people behind MPH Magazine, a local mobile tech magazine for providing me the opportunity to write for them. It has truly been a wonderful experience.
5. *Myozyme* – The biggest blessing this year came at the very end. A photo finish of sorts. On Dec. 20, 2005 I was given my first infusion of Myozyme. The enzyme replacement therapy being developed by Genzyme for Pompe patients. This is indeed a blessing. It’s something that I’ve been waiting for 18 years. I’m thankful to the people at Genzyme, the doctors at the UP-NIH for putting this together and giving me a chance at a better life.
Apart from these major events this past year, there have also been other blessings this year. Such as the chance to develop new friendships. I’m thankful for the new people I met at PhilMUG, whom have been so warm and welcoming. The people from DLSU-CSB, Kato, Chong and the rest.. Jeri, Kevin’s assistant, I’m happy to have met you even if it’s just online. I’m also thankful for developing friendships from people I’ve known before but didn’t really have the chance to get to know them well till now. Peopls such as Tiffany, Cricket, Nikki, Jayvee and Kevin. I am also grateful for the continuing friendships that I have. There are too many to mention but you guys know who you are. My life is better with you in it.
I am thankful for my family. Their continuing presense, love and support make my life, the great one that it is. Sure there are many challenges. It’s a difficult life especially dealing with Pompe but my family, friends and colleagues make it a worthwhile life to live.
Most of all I am thankful for God’s continuing love. He has always been there for me and has never left my side. He has given me a lot of gifts. I am blessed.
As 2006 approaches, I am thankful for the year that was. I’m also looking forward to the year that will be. With Myozyme, I am hoping that a better future is in store. I am praying for more opportunities to share my blessings with other people. There’s exciting things in store for 2006.
One of the great things that has happened as a result of having Pompe is meeting amazing people. I met Maryze years back. She also suffers from Pompe. Anton is her boyfriend.