So this happened today.
Nino and Gia and I got up early so we could spend the morning in Crowne Plaza, and see all of our friends from DSAPI.
Ed Sanchez is the man behind United for Down 2015. Nino and I had the chance to speak to Ed for a little while, and we asked him about how he managed to put the entire day together.
What we could see (because we weren’t behind the scenes at all today) was a really well put together program for more than 150+ kids who were given the privilege to avail of doctors’ services, vaccines, and more. What we also learned is that The Unilab Foundation was willing to do what was necessary to make it happen. Over 200 volunteers made up of doctors, nurses, specialists, dentists and therapists were all present to treat children and adults for the entire day. I was so impressed with the organization and the flow of the patients because there were just so many people to be seen! 
When we arrived I was looking forward to setting up the craft corner for the kiddies while they were waiting for their names to be called. Best Buddies was helping out for the day by facilitating arts and crafts to keep the children occupied while waiting for their turns with the specialists. 
Truth be told, children of all ages enjoyed the crafts donated by Explore Sandbox. I even asked Gia to learn how to make the kazoo! (Kazoos are great for strengthening lips and promoting language development.) 
Best Buddies from Xavier and the adult buddies were tasked to man the craft tables. I really didn’t have to do anything since Candice and Ivi prepped all the activities. This made it easy for me to go around and chit chat with everyone. 
But not before we kicked off the program proper. Rhodora Fresnedi with Brina Maxino explaining a little bit about Unilab Foundation. 
I sat next to Vico for a minute and caught up with him really quickly. I learned that he was going to be drawing for some of the participants. 
Ophthalmologists conducted eye examinations. 
ENTs were ready to offer their expert opinions. 
And therapists were evaluating development and preparing home programs for participants. 
There were even free vaccines that were administered. (This is part one of a three part program to health and prevention.) Ed also shared that Unilab would continue through with the boosters and the education of these participants as well.
A photo posted by Michelle Aventajado (@mommanmanila) on
Even the pharmacy was ready to distribute medicine for participants
But my day was super worth it, just to meet this cutie pie. I was so happy to meet Draezel and her mommy, Ruzella. We chatted for a little bit, I showed them videos of Gellibean and I learned how brave and strong and sweet this little girl is…
I was just so happy to get some hugs from this little princess!
It’s amazing to see how some of these ordinary people (who belong to extraordinary children) can make beautiful things happen. Thank you to all the parents who put forth the effort into making United for Down a HUGE success. Thank you Unilab Foundation, DSAPI, Best Buddies, Explore Sandbox, and most of all THANK YOU to all the doctors and specialists who donated their time for our children today. This momma is going to bed happy knowing that lotsa kids got what they needed today.
Photo Credit: Unilab Foundation Facebook Page
