February 15, 2015 was a busy Sunday for the PhilHealth community since it was when the 2nd nationwide simultaneous run was held. But for Dexter Medallon, Secretary of Federation of Persons with Disability of the Province of Batangas, Inc. (FPDPBI), it was a day of hope.

Born with Brittle Bone Disease, 32-year-old Dexter was wheelchair-bound since childhood. Though risky on his part, he joined PhilHealth Run in Lipa City to show support and thank PhilHealth and event sponsors for choosing their organization as one of the primary beneficiaries of the Run.

“I am very excited since it was my first time to join a fun run. With the help of my personal assistant, I finished the 3k leg,” said Dexter. He was with beauty queen MJ Lastimosa during the run.

“I personally congratulate PhilHealth for the unwavering support to PWDs. If I am not mistaken, this is the first time I’ve learned and experienced that an insurance corporation or government-owned and controlled corporation (GOCC) has shown interest to help persons with disability. I truly appreciate their efforts,” he added.

Dexter, a First Mabini Batangan Awardee as PWD of the Year in 2013 who is currently employed as a Computer Trainer, shared his views that PWDs are often neglected in society. “Napakatagal na panahon na hindi napapapansin ang mga kailangan at karapatan ng mga PWDs, iyong tipong nakalimutan na kung paano nabubuhay ang mga may-kapansanan. I believe malaki ang maitutulong nito (PhilHealth Run) sa sector, and I am very optimistic na masusundan pa ito siguro sa ibang pamamaraan,” he said. “With the help of PhilHealth, some of them will have livelihood income to support their needs,” he added.

PhilHealth Regional Office IV-B turned over P293,481.29 to FPDPB which will help their members have a source of living.

In parting, Dexter said that “I believe that the difficulty one experiences is not a hindrance to achieve one’s goal; it simply means that you have to really work hard for it.” (END)