Sunday, February 24, 2008

Emilio's Corner: Speaking in Smiles




On the 23rd of February, we attended the formal opening of the one-man photo exhibit of my cousin Paulo Canivel entitled Emilio's Corner: Speaking in Smiles. The exhibit covers 9 families who are living with members who have Down's Syndrome. Paulo's inspiration for this exhibit was inspired by his late brother Emilio who was born with Down's Syndrome. Emilio's life was short, 3 years, but filled with so much lessons in love and inspiration. Unfortunately, I did not get to meet Emilio, or Mio, as he was fondly called. I posted a letter written by Paulo's sister Chinie at an earlier post.

Walking through the exhibit, we got to meet in print some of the subjects of the Paulo. However, those pictures came to life a little later when a number of them made their appearance. I was so blessed to have had the opportunity to meet at least two of the. Jaye Jaye and Jessica along with their mothers. Also had a short abut very special conversation with the son of the president of the Down's Syndrome Association of the Philippines, Inc.

I am so proud that my cousin has taken much interest in raising the awareness of people who have Down's Syndrome. I think that these people are among the very few in this creation that are able to express unencumbered love to everyone they meet. Love so pure that these angels leave the recipient of their hugs tingling with joy.

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