Sharing the Gift of Hope
On February 7, 2018 a Testimonial Gathering titled “Sharing the Gift of Hope” was conducted by the Zamboanga City Medical Center at Alavar Seafoods Restaurant, this City. This was sponsored by the Women and Children Protection Unit, the Psychiatry Department and the Mental Health Program of the Regional Health Office.
The objectives were as follows:
For fully recovered patients and strugglers to:
– celebrate Transformation
– inspire and share the gift of unending hope
– empower one’s coping ability to transform and be productive members of society.
There were 40 participants who came mainly physically and sexually abused women, Rehabilitated Drug Dependents and Psychiatric Patients that are now economically productive with no reference to religion and social strata. The whole day activity was centered on the testimonial sharing of some survivors, their challenges and coping mechanisms and support received during their periods of difficulty. There were also sharing from the Psychiatrists/VAWC (Violence against Women and Children) and Clinic Physician who journeyed with them. In the Afternoon, the Emmaus Formator gave a sharing on the four pillars of Dialogue as a way of life and finally a “Kumustahan” session.
At the end of the day’s activity, all attendees both from the facilitators and participants wore a smile on their faces. They were grateful for the opportunity given to them to listen to positive stories and to commune with one another. They were also grateful to Silsilah for spearheading the celebration of the WIHW.
In conclusion, we say all the objectives were met.