Strength does not always announce itself in grand gestures. Sometimes, it lives in the quiet determination of a woman who wakes up every day ready to face life’s uncertainties for the sake of her family. This National Women’s Month, the story of Teresa Dowan, 47, of Quirino Hill, reflects the silent yet powerful resilience of women who carry the weight of their households with courage and unwavering love.
Teresa’s life took an unexpected turn when her husband was diagnosed with serious heart and blood complications that now require regular dialysis. Faced with mounting medical needs and financial challenges, she stepped forward as the pillar of strength for her family, holding them together, guided by faith and strengthened by the support of the Department of Social Welfare and Development’s (DSWD) Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS) program.
Working as a part-time saleslady, Teresa does her best to provide for her family while also caring for her husband and their children. With her husband unable to work due to his condition, the responsibility of sustaining the family now rests largely on her shoulders.
Despite the heavy burden, Teresa remains steadfast. For her, giving up has never been an option. She recalls how the assistance from the DSWD AICS program has helped them navigate their most difficult moments.
“Kung wala ang DSWD, wala na siguro ang asawa ko. Salamat talaga sa DSWD. Thank you Lord at pinatatatag niyo ako. Kahit marami akong problema, andyan kayo, nakaagapay sa akin, she shared with deep gratitude.
For Teresa, the help she received goes beyond financial support. The compassion and dedication shown by the DSWD staff – the “Angels in Red Vest” who assist beneficiaries like her, have brought not only support but also comfort during times of crisis. Their kindness and willingness to listen have helped ease the weight of her worries, showing her that she does not have to face her struggles alone.
“Kaya rin gumagaan ang pakiramdam ko kahit na may iniintinding sitwasyon sa pamilya kasi pati po mga empleyado dito na nag-aasikaso ng aming medical assistance, nakakapagkuwento ako, nakikinig sila, mababait sila, may malasakit. Maayos at mabilis pa sila mag-process kaya nakukuha namin agad ang aming AICS assistance,” she added.
At home, Teresa continues to juggle roles. She takes care of her children and attends to her husband who continues to undergo dialysis treatments. Though the responsibilities can sometimes feel overwhelming, she draws strength from the love she has for her family. She remains grateful for her health, knowing that her strength is essential to her family’s survival.
“Mabuti nga’t hindi ako nagkakasakit. Kasi ako lahat, ako nagtatrabaho sa pamilya namin dahil may sakit ang asawa ko. Ako rin nag-aalaga sa mga anak ko. Nakakapagod minsan pero kakayanin ko para sa pamilya namin,” she said with a gentle smile.
Teresa Dowan’s story embodies the spirit of National Women’s Month, a celebration of the strength and grit, and the invaluable contributions of women in society. Her story stands as a tribute to the countless women who silently carry the burdens of their families while continuing to nurture hope for a better tomorrow. Her quiet determination reflects the resilience of many women who always choose to rise above hardships, women who serve as the backbone of their families and communities.
Through programs like the DSWD’s AICS, women like Teresa are given the support they need to keep moving forward despite life’s challenges. This story is a powerful reminder that when women are supported and empowered, they transform into unstoppable forces, uplifting their families while, more importantly, strengthening themselves. It is a testament to the true power of love and self-empowerment, a force that inspires not only their loved ones but also the communities around them. # DSWD FIELD OFFICE CAR, SOCIAL MARKETING UNIT, MAYROSE U. CARIÑO
