October 11, 2024
From housewife to certified caregiver
By Arvin Yanga
In the humble street of Panghulo, Malabon, a story of unwavering determination unfolds. Venus Telecio, a 2023 scholar of Tzu Chi Foundation's caregiving program, is a loving wife of Levy Telecio and a dedicated mother of two kids, Vince Angelo and Vince Aaron.
Then life threw them an unexpected curveball. In 2022, what started as persistent coughing and sneezing led to a hospital test that changed their lives forever. Her husband's creatinine level soared to 2,800 umol/L—far above the normal 115 umol/L. The findings were clear: chronic kidney disease stage 5, requiring immediate dialysis.
“It was extremely difficult because he is the sole provider, we had nothing,” Telecio recalled, her voice tinged with memories of those dark days. She couldn't find sufficient funds for their children's daily needs, let alone for her husband’s medications.
Their world crumbled around them. Levy could no longer work at the printing press where he produced nursing books. Then the house they were renting was sold by the lot owner’s child. Eventually, it was demolished, forcing the Telecios to move and build a temporary wooden shelter beside a housing estate. They sold everything they had just to survive.
But sometimes, the silver lining comes in unexpected forms. For Telecio, it arrived while she was browsing on her phone. A friend messaged her about the Tzu Chi Foundation's Livelihood Training Program for Caregiving.
"When I was using Facebook, a friend of mine sent me a link," Venus shared. Already experienced in giving injections to her husband, she saw an opportunity. "I told myself that I wanted to study caregiving because I have experience in it."
The journey was challenging. Telecio had to juggle her studies with family responsibilities and finding financial aid for her husband’s medications. Yet her determination never wavered.
Today, Telecio stands proud as a certified caregiver, earning a thousand pesos a day, transforming hardship into hope. “The caregiving scholarship changed my life because now I have a decent job that will provide for the family's needs,” she said.
The program also instilled in her the value of compassion, especially through Master Cheng Yen's teachings. “The teaching that marked my mind is to be helpful to others, to not look for something in return when you help, and to live with hope,” Telecio reflected.
She still applies the principle of filial piety not just to her family but to Ma. Martha Farolan, her 78-year-old ambulatory patient. “I consider her not just as a patient but as my parent. I take good care of her, and I love her,” said Telecio. “She is doing a great job in taking care of me,” added Farolan.
Telecio expressed her sincere words of gratitude for being a Tzu Chi Foundation caregiving scholar. “I am very grateful for the amount of help and opportunity that has been given to me,” she said, teary-eyed.
Telecio's story is about more than just survival; it's about thriving against all odds. She’s now equipped with newfound skills, steadfast determination, and the Tzu Chi Foundation's compassionate principles.
Venus Telecio browses the caregiving program enrollment at Tzu Chi Philippines’ Facebook page, remembering her first encounter on the same announcement.
The Telecio family walk to their new humble home beside the housing estate at Panghulo, Malabon.
Venus Telecio (in red) receives a genuine hug from her youngest son, Vince Angelo, while preparing for school.
Caregiver at home: Venus Telecio (left) carefully cleans the injection sites of her husband, Levy, after his hemodialysis session.
The Telecio family relax by an open hut where they bond together and spend time with each other.
Venus Telecio (right) chats with her youngest son.
The Telecio family gather for a photo in front of their improvised house made of galvanized iron and wood, where they currently reside after moving from a demolished house and a temporary apartment.
Venus Telecio (back row, first from left), along with her husband and their two children, use a hand gesture of thanks to show their gratitude to the Tzu Chi Foundation.
Ma. Martha Farolan, a 78-year-old ambulatory patient, firmly described Telecio’s treatment and care towards her. “She is doing a great job in taking care of me like a toddler,” Farolan shared.
Awarding ceremony of Tzu Chi Foundation’s Caregiving Scholars Batch 2023.
Venus Telecio (left) receives her certificate of scholarship for a caregiving course from Tzu Chi Education Committee Head Rosa So.
With all the knowledge from her course, Venus Telecio (in front) is vigilant in conducting caregiving simulations.
Venus Telecio (in blue uniform) applies her knowledge to a disabled patient with proper care.
Tzu Chi Foundation’s Caregiving Scholars Batch 2023 gather for a photo as they receive their certificate of completion for a caregiving course.
“The journey could be grueling, but if there is perseverance, don't give up; it's all worth it in the end,” says Venus Telecio on encouraging those who go through life challenges.