Differently abled person should not be the subject of shame and pity. If given opportunity to develop their abilities and skills these person with disability can be productive and an active contributing member of the family and the community. Just like any normal individual, these persons who maybe blind, hearing impaired, orthopedically handicapped or with any other deformities also need love, care and attention of their respective families.

John Angelo Ortiz, 29 years old was born pre-mature, and diagnosed to have a cerebral palsy. He is crippled and with speech impairment. He uses a wheelchair for his mobility and is assisted by any of the family member in moving around.

John Angelo hails from Riosa St. Tabaco City, Province of Albay. The second and the only boy among the three siblings. Both parents are working. Herminia, the mother manage a jewelry store in the same place while Angelo’s father is employed at the Local Government Unit in Tabaco City.

But despite of their tight schedule, they both have time for Angelo. Aside from attending to his basic needs, the parents especially Regina patiently brings Angelo to school so that he was able to complete his elementary and secondary education in a public school in Tabaco City. When asked about his experience in school, Angelo said that he was happy in school, especially that he gained lots of friends. “Hindi ako nakararanas ng pangungutya ng kapwa ko mag-aaral. Sa halip ako ay tinutulungan at minahal bilang kaibigan” (I have never experienced bullying from my schoolmates, Instead they were helpful and loved me as a true friend) Angelo exclaimed.

Regina, her mother shared that Angelo wanted to pursue his studies in college and be a teacher. His dream is to have a college diploma, and have it hang on their wall like of those his sisters. But according to Regina, the family could not afford financially especially that they have to commute daily from Tabaco City to Legazpi City. “Dalawa kaming magbabyahe araw-araw para may mag-aangat at magtutulak nang kaniyang wheelchair. Hindi pa kasama ang ibang gastusin sa eskwela. (Somebody should assist Angelo in bringing/pushing his wheelchair from home to school and in vying a public transport from home to school and back. This is aside from other school needs that will incur.) Regina sighed.

Instead, to keep Angelo busy, Regina advised him to work on his craft; doing cross stitch which is one of Angelo’s interest which he did. He started his works from a small item and with animals and cartoon character for design. What is unique for Angelo is that he uses his feet in working for his craft. It was in the late months of 2014 when there was an announcement that Pope Francis will be visiting the Philippines. While working for his cross stitch, Angelo was also finding ways on how he will be able to see the Pope. “Ako ay taimtim na dumadasal na sana makita ko ang Santo Papa”. (I am praying hard that I will be able to see Pope Francis) Angelo bared.

Using his cellphone, Angelo tried to contact ABS-CBN of Manila which he was responded. Researchers of Miss Korina Sanchez came to Angelo’s residence and interviewed him. He was then featured in Rated K. Throughout that interview Angelo was able to express his desire to see Pope Francis. “I have prepared something to be given to the Pope”. Angelo said.

This came to the knowledge of the Archbishop of the Diocese of Albay, Bishop Joel Baylon that according to Regina two priests were sent to interview and validate to the truthfulness of Angelo’s desire. Luckily, they were able to join the Albay delegation with the other members of the family.

January 15, 2015, was considered the most lucky and blessed day for Angelo. It was the day of the Pope’s visit. With the help of Bishop Baylon and the rest of Albay clergy, Angelo was able to go near Pope Francis and handed his cross stitch of the image of Mater Dolorosa. Regina could not express the happiness of his son Angelo. It was a dream come true for him. “Napakasaya ko nang araw na yon. Gumaan ang aking loob at parang nagkaroon ako ng kapanatagan sa buhay.” (I was so happy and felt that I am at peace.) exclaimed Angelo.

The family of Angelo believed that his interaction with Pope Francis brought good luck to him. Since then, he was featured in both print and television, Angelo started to count costumers. He started receiving orders of his craft. For a big size like 11R to 12R he is able to sell it for 10,000 to 12,000. Angelo also receives on-line orders both local and orders from abroad. From his income he is now able to help his family. He was also able to have savings. Payments from his customers especially those outside the country are paid direct to his savings account.

Angelo’s mother also shared that they are able to have ease in buying the materials for his craft because it is done through on-line purchase. They have an established supplier in Manila. Angelo has also have time for leisure. He only work on his craft in the morning. In the afternoon he would go out, mingle with his peers and have other time for Facebook.

John Angelo does not consider his disability as a hindrance to his growth and development.