Teo's Story



About six years ago an anonymous donor made a decision to donate to the Wheelchair Foundation.  Five years ago a wheelchair arrived in the Philippines.  Teo was selected as the recipient of that wheelchair.  At that time he was in his fifth year of elementary school.  Five years passed and he is now in his final year of high school.  (Students in the Philippines are eligible for eleven years of schooling including kindergarten.)  Teo will be graduating in the middle of March.  He is described as diligent, hard working and attentive to his studies.  He is also known to be faithful in his religious devotions and an inspiration to those who know him.  As you will see in the following photos of his five year wheelchair, that gift has seen many miles of service.

A break adjustment, some new tires and this chair can be passed on.

Five years of trips to school on these tires.

From the rear showing the original Operation Wheelchair patch.

Teo's chariot for the last five years.

We arrived not knowing that Teo had been a past recipient.  It was heart warming to see the use recorded on the worn tires and faded fabric.  Yet the intergrity of the frame and the fabric have more years of service in them.  Once refurbished the wheelchair will be ready to bring joy to a new young recipient.  The five year old gift will be passed on.

Teo goals are to continue on to college and pursue studies in information technology.  We wish him well in his future studies.  What follows is a video of Teo getting into his new, larger chair.  That is followed by a few still pictures and a dedication.

Old and new side by side.

Teo sitting in his new chair.

Today's post is dedicated to the anonymous donor who enabled Teo to progress this far.  Perhaps somehow they will be able to view this post and witness the freedom and independence their gift has given Teo.