In the quiet community of Camp 7 lives 66-year-old Arsenia G. Cados — lovingly called Nanay Arsenia, a mother, a widow, and a vendor whose life story is marked by resilience and faith. Though her body may have weakened through the years, her spirit remains steadfast, fueled by love for her only child and renewed hope through the government’s assistance.
When Hard Work Takes Its Toll
“Malakas pa sana ako kung hindi ako na-stroke,” Nanay Arsenia shared, recalling how a damaged vein in her brain left her struggling with weakness.
For years, she had pushed herself beyond her limits. When her husband passed away, their son was only eight years old. From that day forward, she carried the responsibility alone, working tirelessly to raise him, often sacrificing sleep and proper care for herself.
“Kailangan kasi pero sa dulo nagsisi rin ako dahil nagkasakit ako,” she said tearfully.
Her story mirrors that of many parents who equate love with sacrifice, sometimes at the expense of their own health.
Her son, now 24 years old, works in construction. While he does his best to support them, his income is not always stable. Despite her condition, Nanay Arsenia still strives to contribute through small vending activities, carefully managing her strength each day.
A Timely Helping Hand
Recently, Nanay Arsenia became a beneficiary of the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS) program of the Department of Social Welfare and Development Field Office Cordillera Administrative Region (DSWD FO CAR), receiving PhP5,000.00 as cash assistance. For many, it may seem like a modest amount, but for Nanay Arsenia, it means medicine, food on the table, and peace of mind.
The AICS cash assistance she received came at a crucial time. The financial aid will be used primarily to purchase her maintenance medicines and supplement their daily food needs.
“Salamat po sa AICS dahil sa natanggap kong assistance. Makakatulong po ito sa pagbili ng aking mga gamot, at pagkain din namin ng aking anak,” she expressed with gratitude.
Beyond financial relief, the assistance serves as reassurance that she is not alone in her struggles. It affirms the government’s commitment to extending compassion and support to vulnerable individuals, especially senior citizens facing health and economic challenges.
A Message of Balance and Self-Care
Despite her hardships, Nanay Arsenia remains hopeful and reflective. She now advocates for balance and self-care — lessons she learned through experience.
“Ingat lang talaga sa pagkain, huwag masyadong marami,” she advised.
She also reminds fellow parents and workers to value their health, saying “Magsipag tayo para sa ating mga anak para mabuhay. Kailangan kumilos, magtrabaho. Pero huwag naman masyadong masipag—huwag sobrang trabaho, hindi pwedeng kulang sa tulog. Alagaan natin ang ating mga katawan.”
Her words echo the reality of many breadwinners who sacrifice their well-being for their families. Through her story, Nanay Arsenia hopes others will learn to care for themselves while striving for their loved ones.
Strength Redefined
Nanay Arsenia once believed strength meant working without rest. Now, she understands it differently. Strength for her now means knowing when to slow down, choosing to take care of herself, and accepting help when needed. She remains grateful for each day she wakes up, for the son she raised with perseverance, and for the assistance that arrived at a crucial time.
Through timely intervention and compassionate programs such as DSWD’s AICS lives like Nanay Arsenia’s are uplifted, proving that no one has to face life’s challenges alone. Nanay Arsenia continues her journey — not as strong as before in body, perhaps, but stronger in wisdom, gratitude, and faith. # DSWD FIELD OFFICE CAR, SOCIAL MARKETING UNIT, MAYROSE U. CARIÑO
