Helping the Helper

By Alyssa Kathleen Arnaldo

September 8, 2014, Monday, the Good Shepherd Cathedral School (GSCS) celebrated its 19th Founding Anniversary on the same time honor the birthday of the Blessed Virgin Mary.

   The founder of our school, Msgr. Fidelis Limcaco, has helped greatly in creating this wonderful establishment. Due to his old age and the sickness he is suffering from, he is now bedridden. He is now residing in the mother house of their congregation at Walnut Street, Fairview, Quezon City. To pay back the huge favor he has given, the school offered to extend a hand to the now ill founder. One of his basic needs are assigned are assigned to each level.  Nursery, Kinder, and Grade 1 are to bring wet pads, Grades 2 and 3 are to bring adult diapers, Grades 4 and 5 are to bring under pads, Grades 6 and 7 are to bring wet wipes, Grade 8 are assigned to bring tissues, and Grades 9 and 10 are tasked to bring toiletries – oil, powder, soap, toothpaste, etc. These items are to help alleviate his condition and to aid his congregation in providing for his daily needs. In this little help of ours we are not only helping one but many – Msgr. Fidelis himself as well as his caretakers.

   The illness of Msgr. Fidelis is called Parkinson’s disease.  It is a disorder of the nervous system that affects one’s movement. It slowly develops, sometimes it just starts with a barely noticeable tremor in one hand. Although the tremor might might be the most common knowledge for the sign of a Parkinson’s disease, it also causes stiffness or slowing of movement. It also worsens over time. Unfortunately, it cannot be cured. The medication that can be provided can only improve the symptoms. In occasional cases, the doctor of the affected may suggest surgery in certain parts of the brain to also improve the symptoms.

   Many are truly grateful for the things that he did. His illness might not have a cure but anything is possible when you have faith. He has served God for a long time so maybe he will be given the help he needs from Him. He also needs our prayers to keep him going strong and never give up. Doing good doesn’t need a reason. Just having the satisfaction of seeing the smile and gratification on the people you help is enough.