In a society filled with prejudice, Van Ryan Navarez emerges as an extraordinary example of solidity and determined resolution. Van came into this world just like any other child, crying and screaming as he took his first breath. But when turned one, he was diagnosed with Osteogenesis Imperfecta - a genetic or heritable disease in which bones fracture easily and the symptoms can range from mild with only a few fractures to severe with many medical complications.
Van is currently a first-year college student at FEU Tech.
Now at twenty, Van shows no signs of stopping and continues to push for the life he desires, leaving no space for hesitance as he pursues his college education at FEU Tech taking up Information Technology program with a specialization in Animation and Game Development (AGD).
In an interview, Van shares his determination to tackle life head-on while dealing with his condition and how he refuses to allow his physical limitations to hinder him from achieving his dreams. Instead, he highlighted his capabilities and artistic talents that motivated him further.
“Iniisip ko po na hindi hadlang ang kapansanan ko… Napapatunayan ko po ngayon sa pag-aaral and sa talents ko.”
From playing to designing video games
O.I. is commonly known as Brittle Bone disease, which makes Van’s bones fragile and vulnerable to fractures. However, these bodily impediments cannot diminish Van’s innate intelligence and abundance of artistic aptitude.
His creative journey began in childhood where he honed his skills in singing, playing the piano, and drawing. In fact, Van actively participated in the events of his former schools where he would showcase his talents – something he feels immensely proud of. From then on, these talents served not only as outlets but also as a form of self-expression.
To practice his artistic skills, Van creates digital drawings.
Later, Van nurtured a love for playing video games, saying that it provides him comfort similar to when he’s playing the piano or singing. Significantly, this fascination with animation and gaming motivated him to choose the AGD specialization for his I.T. program. After attending his first few classes, he developed an interest in their programming courses as it allowed him to explore things he did not know about before.
“Na-enjoy ko po ‘yung sa programming namin ng mga codes sa computer kasi so far, first time ko pa lang po ‘yun nagawa.”
Apart from animation and gaming, Van holds an aspiration to become a pilot – a dream ignited when he was still in high school. As he waits for his chance to fly, he focuses on soaring with the use of his other skills. For instance, he looks forward to sharpening his editing and animation skills with FEU Tech’s I.T. program, which would help set the stage for promising career prospects in the future.
Inclusive Tamaraw community
With its commitment to providing a good learning environment for all students, FEU Tech makes use of exceptional facilities and fosters a PWD-friendly community. Van attests to this and shares that he feels accommodated and supported by the security personnel, faculty, associates, and fellow students.
In the same way, his mother Aida Navarez believes that FEU Tech lives up to its reputation as a PWD-friendly institution because both of them did not experience discrimination or bullying from anyone on campus. In fact, the Institute displays potential for even greater inclusivity.
“Sa security, okay naman ‘yung approach sa amin. Sa mga professor at estudyante, wala rin problema. May nakausap din kaming professor na PWD doon sa Engineering Building, wala naman raw bullying dito. Thankful kami kasi sana nga po lahat ng mga estudyante ay maging aware sila sa mga PWD.”
Mommy Aida enthusiastically shares Van’s life journey, the support that she gives to him, and their positive experiences at FEU Tech.
Mommy Aida affirms that she never had any doubts about supporting his son’s pursuit of college education at FEU Tech. Aside from knowing that Van has the mental capability to perform well, she believes that the kind of environment FEU Tech cultivates would advance his interests and academic knowledge.
“Start pa lang po naniniwala na po akong kaya ng anak ko na mag-aral kaya hindi po ako nag-alangan na papasukin siya dito. Ang hindi niya lang kaya ay ‘yung paglalakad kaya dinadala ko siya dito sa school para maabot niya ‘yung pangarap niya.”
No limits, no limitations
Beyond Van’s unwavering pursuit of excellence in his studies and artistic passion, the support of his mother remains essential. Aida takes on the key role of cultivating his only son’s talents by accompanying him to school and various events, thereby ensuring he can fully partake in enriching experiences. Indeed, a mother’s tireless support and steady guidance become integral to a child’s success in his educational and artistic life.
Meanwhile, throughout the adversities Van faced, he has gained an invincible fighting spirit and continues to be an inspiration for the people around him, especially his fellow PWD students.
“Hindi hadlang ang kapansanan kaya huwag silang panghinaan ng loob, huwag silang mawalan ng pag-asa. There’s always a God na tutulong sa atin, kaya pray lang always.”
Van is evidence of the human spirit's limitless perseverance. His life journey serves as a testament that with talent, passion, and an unyielding support system from the family and community, any disability can be conquered and dreams can turn into reality. After all, disabilities do not define a person's capabilities; rather, it’s the strength of spirit and tenacious resolve that truly matter.