Mommy's Tambayan

Covid-19, the virus that caused a global pandemic, seem to be the most difficult enemy anyone has to face against. Especially for a mother who has a pre-existing condition, battling Covid-19 is like being in a lose-lose situation. Not for Mommy Suzi Garcia-Rufino, however, as she fought so many rounds of battles against this coronavirus which she ultimately won. All she had taken away were battlescars to inspire and help others.

Mommy Suzi shares her battle against Covid-19 to Mommy's Tambayan.

I am a mother of 2 boys, wife, teacher, who survived COVID-19. I made this testimony to answer some questions of mommies in TBDM Mommy Club and to inspire people to KEEP THE FAITH AND WIN THE FIGHT!

1. Paano mo nakuha iyong virus? Do you have pre-existing condition? May supplements/vitamins ka ba before? O may diet ka ba? 

I don’t have an idea kung saan ko nakuha ang virus. Prior to that, I just went to a market, supermarket and Pharmacy to prepare for the coming crisis. That was around March 7-10.

I do have a pre-existing condition. I’m asthmatic. Before I got the virus, I was taking Sodium Ascorbate with Zinc and Multi Vitamins. I also started Intermittent Fasting a week before that, so, I think that was one of the reasons why I got vulnerable to the virus and made my immune system at risk. In times like these, please don’t make a sudden change to your diet. Stick to your diet until the virus is over. But for those who are in IF diet for a long time, just continue it. This is only my opinion.

2. May nahawa ba sa family mo? Were you still breastfeeding your baby prior? 

I was so scared. I was worried what lies ahead in the hospital. What if I passed the virus to my children and the rest of my family at home? Great fear came to me that time. But as a MOM, I needed to be strong for my children. I had to face this battle!

I isolated myself in a room the first time I had fever. By God’s mercy and grace, people at home were doing well. Until now, we are still monitoring everyone for possible symptoms.

The hardest part for me is the breastfeeding. My 2yo child and 4yo child are both breastfeeding. This was really heart breaking for me. While I was on self-quarantine, there were nights that I went to my children’s room to breastfeed them. I did that after taking a bath and had to wear face mask. Imagine, I took a bath in the middle of the night so I would not expose them to the virus that I could possibly have. So, yung dating unli-breastfeeding, every night nalang.

3. Ilang araw bago ka nagpa admit. Ilang araw bago na-confirm na may Covid?

To answer the questions below, I’ll tell you the whole story.

Day 1: I woke up so tired and having a muscle ache. Yung feeling na magkakatrangkaso ka.

Day 2: My muscle ache and feeling of fatigue subsided but I already had fever. I also had mild cough. I’m asthmatic so I’m used to this. So I just took my asthma meds. I also took Paracetamol round the clock. That time, I was already in self quarantine in a room.

Day 3: My fever continued. So I called my cousin who is a doctor, my mom’s best friend who is a doctor and my brother’s mom who’s also a doctor. They all advised me to go to the hospital. So I drove myself to a private hospital near our place. I was interviewed outside. They had this sort of a tent outside the emergency room that says ‘TRIAGE” with a nurse without a PPE. She was just wearing a face mask.  Naawa ako sa nurses and staff kasi yun yung time na wala talaga silang mabilhan and if they had ordered somewhere, di pa siguro dumarating.

After the interview, I was not recommended to be swabbed because I didn’t have travel history and I did not have direct contact with a COVID patient. How would I know? Some people who are positive can be asymptomatic! I asked them, “Please swab me! I have babies to breastfeed!”. They said, only RESU from the City Health Office (CHO) can do the swab test. The doctor will just refer me. Sabi ko, “Refer me then.” I had a feeling that they didn’t want to admit me in their hospital. They did an X-ray and found out it was clear. So I went home to continue my self-quarantine and was advised to go back to the hospital when the symptoms progress.

Day 4: Fever did not stop. I still took Paracetamol round the clock. I texted the doctor of our City Health Office. He/She advised me to go to the hospital when I feel difficulty of breathing and when the symptoms progress.

Day 5: I got a diarrhea. I pooped 3 times and I felt like I was going to be dehydrated. My sisters drove me to another hospital (not the same hospital above) I decided to go there because I knew I have former RadTech students who are working in the same hospital. I thought, if ever na maadmit ako, and di sila pumayag na may magbantay, I would have someone there to look after me. Kahit may sisilip lang.

They interviewed me and my former student did my X-ray. It was still clear.
I was admitted as a PUI. I stayed in a regular room with 1 company who is my brother. He was wearing a PPE while inside the room just like all the staff, doctor and nurses that went inside my room.

I had dextrose, 2 Intravenous antibiotic (once a day and 3 times a day), mucolytic, nebulization, Nexthaler and Montelukast Levocetirizine for my asthma, and oxygen to help me breathe better. As an asthmatic, I am used to difficulty of breathing.

They have these categories but I’m not sure.
• Asymptomatic
• Mild
• Moderate
• Critical
My case was Moderate.  Kasi siguro dahil naagapan agad. So, if you are symptomatic, please go to the hospital. Habang wala pang April 15.

Day 6: I had my first swab test taken by RESU of CHO. They would send it to RITM to be processed. During the swab test, the RESU person would measure my face. Kaya pala nung pinasok na yung swab, hanggang brain ko yata ang pagtusok! Swab test is not painful. It is not comfortable. Para ka mahahatsing. Maninigas ka kasi wala kang magawa kundi tiisiin. The other swab will be taken from your mouth (ngala-ngala). That one was ok.

BATTLE AGAINST DEPRESSION

Day 11: The result is POSITIVE to Covid 19! I cried. I thought I was better. I was still in denial.

When I was a PUI, I have my brother with me in a regular room. So when I got the positive result, he was sent home to for self-quarantine. Buti nalang yung house ng family ng husband ko, walang tao. So he stayed there for 14 days. We even extended his quarantine for 7 more days. So far he’s doing well. Wearing PPE, gloves and mask paid off. We pray every day na wala syang maramdaman na kahit anong symptoms. He was also not tested because he is not having symptoms.

I was transferred to ICU for close monitoring. I was alone there in a room but I can see some patients through the glass doors. There was one positive patient there in front of my room. He was an elderly. I waived at him and he waived back. I saw him having trouble breathing and he was intubated. I was terribly scared again. So I prayed and prayed. I CAN'T DIE! I knew I won’t die. Who will love my children like I do? I knew the answer. It was God. He loves them more than I do. Kaya di nya hahayaang mawalan sila ng ina. In did cling to God. He was with me during my darkest hours. He was very close and He's never forsaken me.

I realized so many things:

Day 11-17:

a. I am nothing without God. I can’t be proud of anything. I have nothing to do but to trust GOD and submit to His will. I’m a Christian and I promised to Him that I would be more faithful when He allows me to recover.

b. Family first. I recalled all the times that I was not with my children because of my job as a broker. I was always busy. I breastfeed while checking e-mails, suddenly stop my breastfeeding when a client calls. I missed eye-to-eye contact with my children. I missed my husband who is in lockdown abroad. It was devastating and I was consumed. I promised to be with my children when He allows me to survive.  I also promised to love my husband more and be more understanding when he comes home. I cannot thank enough my sisters, brothers and mom (who’s always crying) for always being there for each other. They are like always “Game On, Kaya natin to”.

c.  What is God’s Plan? Life is short. “Am I done? I still have so many things to do. Should God allow me to finish my unfinished life? Does he have an unfinished plan for me? If yes, what would that be?” To know the answer to my questions, I attended Live sermons and watched pastors preach about COVID 19 and God. I was reminded that God sent plagues to Egypt mentioned in the Bible. He did that because people’s heart is sinful and tough. Yes, He sent this Covid-19 because we forgot about GOD. We are busy with too many unnecessary things in life. We forgot who GOD is. After the plagues, God saved His people. Those who have faith and followed His instructions. Those whom He loved. I taught this story in one of my Sunday School class at church. How can I forget the lesson that God saved His people from all the 10 plagues?

At that point, I knew God has a plan for me. He will never forsake me.
I talked to my family more often. We did online Bible studies. I talked to my friends and relatives.

d. The True Heroes. There, I saw how noble the profession of our medical front liners is. I was so helpless, kahit na pagdumi at pagweewee, I needed my nurse. I am a mom, I take care of everybody. But that time, I felt so helpless. The nurse was just one call away but she was attending to 1 critical patient, me and a nurse who was also positive. I asked them. “Bakit nandito pa kayo, baka mahawa kayo sa amin”. They answered me, “Maam, umuwi na po yung iba, kami po one month nang di umuuwi. Ganito po talaga ang tungkulin namin. Sino pa mag-aalaga sa inyo kung uuwi kami lahat?” I pity them. I wished I could help ease their sufferings by getting better.

e. Thanks to Grab Riders and Netflix. Who wants hospital food? Even the nurses don’t like it. Thanks to Grab drivers who delivered food for us and my nurses. I ordered almost everyday us. They also shared their food to me. We bonded like a family at ICU. During the most boring times, I could hear the other patient doing Tiktok videos. That means he’s ok. Thank you, God! The critical patient, He was already negative to Covid. I finished a day watching Money Heist. Sorry Lord, I binge watched.

BATTLE AGAINST DISCRIMINATION AND MALTREATMENT

I learned that days ago, while I was fighting for my life, the Homeowners Association of our subdivision made an official public announcement through their Facebook page. They mentioned my name and my sister’s name in an announcement that I was positive to Covid-19. It also broke my heart when I knew that my neighbors gossiped about me and my children who are PUMs at that time were discriminated. They were just talking outside my house that aunt can here them.
I realized.... we are supposed to be a family in the neighborhood. How can a mom do that to another mom? Yes, we are all scared. I am too!

They clearly violates Data Privacy Act of 2012
which denounces people who irresponsibly publicize the personal data of persons under investigation (PUIs) and persons under monitoring(PUMs), thus exposing them to danger even graver than the novel coronavirus itself – that of maltreatment, online bullying and physical violence from individuals who may be driven by desperation and fear.

That happened already when my children were even forced to close the windows and doors during and even after the 14-day home quarantine. Depriving the children of proper ventilation and their right to play within the vicinity of our property which I think is unacceptable and inhumane. Everytime mag-open sila ng windows, may magrereport na kapitbahay sa guard. Then the guard would go to my house and tell my aunt to shut the doors and windows. They are just but children! Why would they deprive fresh air lalo ngayong napakainit ng panahon!

The president of the association kept on asking for my medical abstract from my family claiming that it was a directive from the barangay. Why does she need a clinical abstract? Read Data Privacy Act please! Nakakita ka ba ng name ng patients na published by DOH? They even have code names. PH1, PH2... But never release data that would reveal the identity of the patients and risk their security.

This violates R. A. 11332 Otherwise Known as the "Law on Reporting of Communicable Diseases" (d) Data collection, analysis, and the dissemination of information from official disease surveillance and response systems can only be done by authorized personnel from the DOH and its local counterparts and may only be used for public health concern purposes only;

Clearly, the president of the assoc is not an authorized personnel from DOH or its local counterparts such as CHO.

There were also people who called the hospital where I was confined telling that she was a relative asking for the patient's condition!

One of my neighbors went out of her house and told people about my condition. It's all on CCTV. Maybe she got all the information from the person who asked for my clinical abstract. There were also people who called the hospital and ask the nurses who are working in the same hospital.

Why would they do that to us? What will they do with such information? It was exacerbating. They added to my burdens.

But for now, I will forego this one.

May God give me a forgiving heart when I get to have a meeting with them.

Day 18- I was re-swabbed! I was praying for a faster result and of course a negative one. I missed my babies so much. I used to cry every time I opened my eyes in the morning and realized all of these were true. I wished, that was just a nightmare!

Day 20- The result was NEGATIVE! Praise God! I had a Rapid Test. This will test if I already developed antibodies against COVID-19. And I had a POSITIVE Result! Meaning I already have antibodies present in my system. I coordinated with 3 doctors from PGH, NCH, and St Luke’s. I was given the guidelines on how to donate my blood plasma when I fully recover. I realized, maybe this is one of the reasons why God allowed this to happen to me. He will use me to help others.

Day 21- To God belongs the glory! I got my first bath after 20 days and was discharge by my doctor. For 2 weeks, punas punas lang ng wipes ginawa ko. Di ka rin naman pala babaho ng husto. My curly hair became 1 bunch of hair na dikit-dikit na. Taong Grasa Level 5 na tawag ko sa sarili ko. 😊

This is our graduation video made by the hospital to celebrate its first two recovered patients!





BATTLE AGAINST THE BILL

I was hospitalized in a private hospital and one of my worries is the bill. I surrendered it all to God. I knew He will never forsake me. I am His child. Why should I worry? After a few days, the Chief of Philhealth announced that they will cover all hospitalization expenses of all the Covid patients admitted until April 14. The hospital promised us to reimburse all partial payments made. They released a new case rate/package for the coverage of Covid patients admitted starting April 15, 2020.

PhilHealth President Ricardo Morales said on Tuesday that COVID-19 patients admitted April 15 onwards will be covered by a case rate package divided into four categories.
• Mild pneumonia: P43,997
• Moderate pneumonia: P143,267
• Severe pneumonia: P333,519
• Critical pneumonia: P786,384
Read more: PhilHealth sets new case rate benefits for COVID-19 patients starting April 15

RECOVER AND REFOCUS

Now I am still I’m a day self-quarantine with limited interaction with my children. My 4yo child latched to breastfeed the moment he saw me. But my 2 yo child is having difficulty in adjusting. My heart breaks again. I didn’t expect there’s another battle to fight! I am not ready to wean Him. He needs my breast milk now more than ever. After every bath, I offer breastfeeding to them. My dream is to be with the whole day, just breast feeding my babies.

While on quarantine, I launched a fund raising for the poorest of the poor in 2 communities near us. I have people who will do the legwork because I am still in recovery stage. If you want to see it, it’s on my page:


God saved me from danger. This time, I also want to help others.

TO GOD BELONGS ALL THE GLORY!

Thank you Mommy Suzi for sharing your inspiring story with us! It is clear that your faith in God got you through all this and we continue to pray for you and your family's good health. Sigurado kami na marami kang nainspire na Mommies na kayang kaya natin manalo sa isang kalabang hindi nakikita basta may pananampalataya sa Diyos! God bless you Mommy Suzi!

When a woman becomes a mother, she suddenly takes on a totally different role from all other roles she has taken and becomes a woman of power! She can do anything for her children and she will do everything! And while many mothers think two or three kids are a handful - and would need special mommy powers, our featured Mommy today who has seven kids (yes, you read that right!) isn't even complaining a little bit! She doesn't even have household help or a nanny to help take care of them! What will even surprise you is that she is even able to handle her role an online freelancer helping with the operations and admin of a US client! I can see your amazement just by reading this!

To answer your many questions on how she manages her family, let us get to know Mommy Marivic Jimenez Camantigue, and get to know more about having a family blessed with 7 beautiful children!

Hi Mommy Mavhic, please tell us about your kids?

I have 7 amazing and wonderful kids ( 6 girls  and 1 boy) .They are the Liams, my Kyle and the Colours of my life .  Bawat isa sa kanila has their own unique traits . Most of our friends and colleague found their nicknames quite interesting.  I was  the one who gave them their Birth name but their father has given them interesting nicknames ( para di daw maging sakitin mga anak nya).

The colours of Mommy Mhavic's life: Her Liams and Kyle

My eldest daughter  Liam Dimple is turning 16 this coming March 31- Impoy as we fondly call her is the leader, the brain and my other half when it comes to taking care of her siblings. I can always depend on her   sa mga household chores especially if I need to sleep. Bilib na bilib ako sa panganay ko kasi  she still manages to stay on the top of her class kahit may mga responsibiities sya sa bahay.

Liam Zoe or Purunggay ,  10  and is a Grade 4 student, she got most of her traits from her dad.  Very friendly, maboka sa mga teachers ( kaya laging teacher’s pet), she is always sharing her baon sa mga classmates nya na walang pagkain lalo na sa recess. She’s the one in charge sa pag-aalaga sa bunso namen. She is very sweet, pinakamaasikaso sa lahat. Whenever she sees me doing something, lagi nya akong tinatanong if okay lang ba ako, always offering me something to drink or eat lalo na pag me ginagawa ako.

Kyle Clifford or Benok, 9  our only  boy was the most soft spoken of them all. Pinakamabait at masunurin sa lahat. Even at school, his teacher always compliment him of being mabait and marunong sa klase.

Liam Mackenzie, 8  she is Ponyang to us- our crybaby, the singer of the group. She always see to it that  she  has  a well combed hair  with baby powder on her face. The palaayos and always tagged as pinakamaarte sa lahat.

Pepot and Chin-chin: Mommy Mavhic's littlest ones from her brood of 7

Ambher Cherie or Minyang, 6 is very charming and sweet. she always have her ways of winning others heart. Very madaldal, witty and most of the time tactless.  She will say things as she sees it.

Scarlet Sophia, 5 or Pepot to us is one sweet kid. very clingy pa din sa akin. Pepot knows what she wants , if the rest of her sister wants Barbie and stuff she is fascinated with cars. Benok, being a good kuya would reluctantly shares his toys with Pepot. She never fails to say good morning or good night to me. Nag goo-good night yan kahit tanghali kasi alam nya na matutulog na ako.

Our bunso, Lilac Victoria 2,  Chin-chin to us , is  our daily dose of happiness, madness and love.  Being the bunso has its perks and Chin is enjoying it so much. She has all our attention and she always drives us crazy.  Her ate’s and kuya we’re always complaining dahil sa kakulitan nya, she knows what she wants and gets what she wants…


Did you plan to 7 children? And how different is your pregnancy with each of your kids?
 

Mommy Mhavic planned to have 2 kids, but was blessed with 7 beautiful children!

I consider every pregnancy as a blessing, though we only planned to have 2 kids lang.  I believe if it’s  meant for you  it will be given to you. My first 2 daughters were planned kaya malayo ang agwat ng edad nila. The rest has been an unexpected blessings from above in which I gladly received. We have been using different birth control methods after  I gave birth to Purunggay pero pag talagang para sa ‘yo, ibibigay talaga sa ‘yo eh.  Hindi ako maselan mabuntis, working pa din ako nuon sa Corporate World. Lahat sila normal delivery except sa bunso ko na CS ako. I have a leaking amniotic fluid  during my delivery month and my OB decided to put me in C-section kasi natutuyuan ang panubigan ko. I never felt pain nor contraction during that time so CS was our immediate action to avoid further complication sa baby. Sinabay na din ang pag ligate sa kin   and my baby needs to be injected of antibiotic for 7 days kasi nakakain  na sya ang poop sa loob.


We learned that you also are working as an online freelancer, and you don’t even have house help, how do you manage your time?

Girl power!!!! Hahahaha , Just kidding. Lahat nakaschedule na yan and it needs to be followed. Lucky for me part time lang ako kay client and I only need to work for 6 hours a day on weekdays and 16 hours on weekend. The first half of my shift starts at 9 PM to 12 MN  and 7 AM to 10 AM so I am free  after 12  am to  7 AM. I’m taking advantage of my free time either to sleep, gumawa ng projects/ reviewers,/ assignment nila, and to iron their clothes, prep time sa pagpasok. 5 AM gigisingin na sila, cook their breakfast. 6 silang pumapasok, so si bunso lang ang naiiwan while I’m taking the second half of my shift- usually madugo ang umaga ko

Liam Dimple, Mommy Mhavic's firstborn helps her around the home.

lagi kasi pasaway ang bunso being at the stage of  “terrible 2”. Andun ung sumisigaw pag hindi ko pinapansin, I make it a point to keep her busy ng mga ganitong oras. While on shift nagluluto na ko ng Lunch namen, after shift linis ng bahay, ligo ke bunso, salang ng labahin and prep for Lunch na. After lunch- linis uli ng bahay, hugas ng pinggan. Nakakatulog ako ng mga 3 PM. Gising uli ng 5 Pm to prep dinner, icheck ang mga assignments, sampay ng nilabhan. Eldest ko na ang in charge sa dinner- sya na ang naghuhugas ng pinggan, naglilinis ng kalat  while  si Purunggay ang in charge sa pagpunas ke bunso at pagpatulog.


Galing! You must be an amazing mom to raise such kids. How do you make sure you give enough quality time for them given that you also work online everyday?

I make it a point to  ask them kung ano ang ginawa nila sa school, kung pasaway ba sila stuff like that.  I am always there  to assist them if me homework or project sila. With my eldest, since nasa teenage stage na sya- I always make her feel na  andito ang ako lagi para sa knya, that she can talk to me whatever problems na meron sya.
We also  have our family time during Sunday like going to church or we watch our favorite movie at home.

Sundays are meant for family time for the Camantigue family.

You are more than more than a super mommy, and your kids are lucky to have you!
Our research also said that you were able to invest in a car because of your work! How do you manage your finances?  

My client is a very generous lady, part time lang ako sa kanya  but  I am earning around 50K each month. She always adding some amounts sa invoice ko sa kanya. Sobrang bait niya and she always recognizes my effort as her VA. I am  also lucky to have a sister in law who always have my back when it comes to finances, Everytime  na my kids needs something that is out of budget, she’s always there to the rescue.. My husband is into a buy and sell business din ng mga kotse and hopefully if things go well as planned makakabili kami ng lupa this coming months.

Mommy Mhavic is also a freelancer working as a Virtual Assistant

Wow! You are so blessed talaga, pero do you ever struggle with balancing your time with work and your family?

Not really, the reason that I decided to work from home after 10 years of being in Corporate World it’s because I wanted to take care of my  kids while earning for a living. One of the perks of working from home that I enjoyed so much  ay yung nakikita ko ang mga anak ko  24/7, see them sleeping at night, at pag me sakit sila hindi ko na kailangang umabsent para maalagaan sila.

What would you advise moms with many kids and still want to work?

As long as you have the determination and willingness to make it work- you can earn   and at the same time take care of your family even without a helper . It’s not an easy road to take  pero worth it, tayo namang mga Nanay we are willing to sacrifice para sa kapakanan ng ating mga anak. If I can do it of course you can do it as well.

Thanks for your encouraging advise, Mommy Mavhic. You are such a dedicated mom and your kids are blessed and lucky to have you! Where do you credit your successes from?

Lucky Mom of 7: Mommy Mavhic's kids are her inspiration

I was raised by my Lolo and Lola, up to these days I still don’t know who is my real father and my mother passed away when I was only 1 ½ year old. Lumaki ako sa hirap, my Lolo was a caretaker of one of Hacienda in Negros at naisip ko na kung hindi ako gagawa ng paraan I will end up just like them.  Nung high school at college ako  namasukan ako as Katulong  in exchange sa pagpapaaral sa akin. It’s not easy and I remember  me mga  moments noon na sometimes di ko maintindihan why I need to face these kinds of struggles in my life. And I promised myself, none of my kids will never experience my hardships before.  My kids are my strength- sa kanila ako kumukuha ng inspirasyon at lakas to strive for more sa work ko.

Wow, you've really been through a lot, but you are more than overly blessed now. Sobrang nakakainspire ang story mo, even if you weren't a mommy pa!

Lastly, how do you take care of yourself while balancing your role as a mommy of 7 and as an online freelancer? May favorite ka bang lugar na gusto tinatambayan? How do you take care of yourself?

Actually  I am more of a homebody type of person, kahit nung nasa Corporate World ako I am more of work-bahay lang.  My husband was able to encouraged me na mag jogging even for an hour a day to stay fit and healthy. My way of recharging myself? A good book to read, nice movie to watch and sometimes I’m baking - solve na ako dun.
From time to time if me extra budget kami we go out of town kasama ang mga kids. Minsan kami lang mag-asawa that serves as pinakadate at bonding na din namen.

Thank you Mommy Mavhic! Your story is a testament na kayang kaya ang lahat para sa mga anak! I’m sure marami ang maiinspire sa story mo, lalo na sa mga mommies na walang yaya or sa mga mommies na gusto pa rin magwork while taking care of their kids. Sobrang bilib kami sa story mo and we are definite that maraming mga mommies ang mabibigyan ng encouragement through reading your story. Thanks for sharing your time and your story, alam namin na this takes some of your precious time to take care of everything and yet, you still took the time to inspire other mommies. More blessings to you and your husband, and your seven lucky and blessed children. Mommy’s Tambayan is more than just lucky to have featured you!

You may also visit Mommy Mavhic's Online Shop here:
https://www.facebook.com/LilacsFashion/

Inspired by Mommy Mavhic's story? Leave a comment below.

Do you know a Mommy who is also inspirational in her own way? Email us at mommystamabayan@gmail.com

Supermums Ph, one of the biggest Mommy Group in the country, held a lovely and touching birthday party for kids with special ability at the Dapa Hall of the Philippine Heart Center in Quezon City last August 26, 2018.

Organized by the super mommy group, Supermums Ph, lead by Chell Diaz Fernandez, the event was again, one for the books and benefited 25 children with special needs, and their families.

SupermumsPH Founder Mommy Chell Diaz Fernandez, Daisy Marcelo of Lovely Touch Events Manila, and Mommy Donna Morales Advincula

With the support of Lovely Touch Events Manila, and PHILUSA Corporation, the children with exceptionality and their families, went home with smiles on their faces and hearts that were full as they went home with goodies, and had a great time at the party. Each of the kids also went home with a special gift from their sponsor.

The metro's go-to lady for lovely events with a Touch, Daisy Marcelo, who also performed a ventroloquist show to entertain the kids.

"I am Unique" was sponsored by Lovely Touch Events Manila

Anna-May Jamet, President and CEO of  Bhubanesh International Business Ventures, also delivered an inspiring speech to uplift everyone's spirits during the said occasion. "People with Special Needs are God's Special Gift to this World. Today's event is but a fitting one honoring these children who are unremitting  expressions of HOW and WHAT LOVE is. Grateful we all are to SUPERMUMS PH' brilliance in putting together all our hearts, all our love as we celebrate THE HAPPY BIRTHDAYS OF THESE WONDROUS GIFTS", Ms. Jamet stated.

Ms Anna-May Jamet delivering an inspiring speech for the event.

Hosted by Donna Morales Advincula, one of Supermums Ph Admins and a budding Mommy Vlogger, made the event more enjoyable too with her impressive facilitating of the event.

Mommy Donna Morales-Advincula as the Master of Ceremony

PHILUSA Corporation, leading marketers of quality and competitively priced personal care, household care, baby care and selected pharmaceutical products in the country, was also present at the event and provided gifts to the kids! Being consistent in providing support to Supermums Ph events since 2017, PHILUSA Corp, as expected was true to its mission to touch lives of every Filipino by supporting events like "I am Unique".

Special tokens provided for by PHILUSA Corp.

A unique celebration indeed, Supermums Ph pulled off another memorable event that no other mommy group has done with their "I am Unique" party!

Photo Gallery

Each of the birthday celebrator got their own cakes.

Ms. Jamet with one of the birthday celebrators.

Great food was served during the party.

SuperMums PH Admins and members who volunteered during the program.

Photos of the event courtesy of Kristine Tating, Donna Morales Advincula, and Chell Diaz Fernandez

Supermums Ph Bio:
Supermums Ph is a Facebook group for Filipino Mommies with a membership of 33,000 mothers and counting! In 2017, Supermums Ph also made dreams come true for 14 mommies in a special wedding ceremony. With their advocacy of promoting overall wellness for mommies of all ages and backgrounds, and lead by the group's founder, Chell Diaz Fernandez, nd her co Admins, Rosalia Espino- Soria, Flordeluna Morales Advincula, Airizza Navalta Tutaan, Rachel De Gracia Solanoy, Jolly Nevado Layag, Mary Anne Valencia, MareJane Rejas, Janet Zipagan Galamay, Melissa Cabeza, Angelus Refugio, Ma. Milody Lustre, Cindy Teves, Vivian Zarate Borromeo, Jouanne Agtarap,
Abby Keith Esmeña Manasa, Ma.Hermiescarliza Moncatar, Supermums Ph never fails to be true to its advocacy!

For any special events in and around the Metro, contact Lovely Touch Events Manila at 0915 305 9214 or 0933 863 7765

Newly married couples always start their lives together with great dreams and hopes. However, sometimes, our fate redirects us to an unfamiliar path that we become unsure if we will still realize our goal. This is a Mommy story that is just like that - having to come to a decision to give up a dream that you once shared with your partner - but this account is not about failed dreams! It's a confirmation that wherever God leads you, He will bless you with what you really want to achieve and life.... and even more!

Hi Mommy Tets,  please tell us about how you had your baby.

I conceived Johanne when I was already back in the Philippines. The initial plan then after getting married is for husband to follow me in Doha. But that didn’t materialize. The main reason for coming back home and leaving work in Doha was health risk. At 30, I was diagnosed with diabetes and hypertension and the stress at work wasn’t helping. So my husband and I decided for me to come home and recuperate.

Mommy Tets worked in Doha for several years and had to come home to the Philippines for good to take care of her health.

You were already in Doha and had a great career there, but why did you want to work from home instead of working in a concrete jungle when you came back to the Philippines?

As early as 2014, I was really into the idea of working from home in the event that I return to the Philippines for good. God gave us immediately the best blessing through Johanne, soon as I came back to the Philippines.

Tell us about Johanne growing up. And how are you as a mother to her?

Mommy Tets with her husband Paul and their lovely daughter Johanne.

Johanne, being the first grandchild in both sides of the family is the star of the show.  She is really such a bubbly child and very sociable too. She’s into dancing and music and we noticed this even in her early months. So we really indulge in different types of music everyday. During the first few weeks, I was really extra careful with her because she is premature. But as soon as everything was cleared by the doctor, I was able to relax.  I thought I can prepare for the role by reading mommy books and consulting with mommy friends, but nothing beats actual experience. Eventually, I just followed my instincts and get advices from my mom and mother in law. I really have a great support group. It takes a village to raise a child indeed. She’s 2 years old now and I can really say that I am the disciplining parent more than my husband.


Wow, you are blessed to have Johanne. What can you advise moms who want to take a leap from working overseas to working home based to take care of their kids?

Mommy Tets when she was working in Doha.

For one, the arrangement should be discussed with the husband plus you have to manage your expectations also. You cannot automatically earn what you are earning abroad in homebased work, so a lot of planning is involved. The same goes when you are working in the corporate locally, I recommend, saving at least 3 months worth of salary, before resigning from your current job. Talk to your husband because the beginning part is always the most difficult -- getting clients etc, so your husband needs to support the income of the family alone, temporarily. The savings will help for emergencies.

Clarify your goals -- do you want to take care of the kids and earn by working from home? Or do you want to work from home and be with your kids. That’s different, because the hours of work you want to allot will matter given that direction.

Coming from a family with a father who is an OFW as well, nothing beats being together. It will be financially challenging in some days, but memories of growing without one parent really affects a child. No material possession can take over that.

Coming from a family with an OFW parent, Mommy Tets knows nothing beats time with the family.

Plan and then just do it. God is a God who provides and He will always give us the best that we deserve -- of course, given our best effort. When the day comes that you are typing away in your computer and your little one is smiling at you across the room, you will really be grateful for opportunities to be with them 24/7.

Mommy Tets and her family.

Thank you for that Mommy Tets, you really are a dedicated mommy. Pero, hindi mo ba namimiss lumabas? We learned that when you were single talagang you were literally always out of the house because of the events you handle and being a member and one of the leaders of the Singles for Christ Christian Community.

I am on my 2nd year as a homebased worker and there was a point in my career that I really missed going out. I tried teaching part time, in Senior High, to satiate that part -- pero wow, init, pamasahe.. haha. So I think I’m really better staying at home. Plus, I do have my own events group, ayun, sya nakakafulfill ng social needs ko kapag may client meetings sa gabi.

Mommy Tets is one of the co-founders of 4Leaf Events.

How do you manage your time and how are you able to take care of Johanne since you work from home?

Mommy Tets has been an OFW (Online Filipino Worker) since 2016.

While I feel so blessed na I’m homebased at lagi ko nakikita si baby, I have to give credit also to the great support group that I have. I have my own working space sa house so I can focus, and Johanne stays in the other room with her lolo and lola. It is important to have some place private to work kahit work from home. I have to disagree with some posts na kumakalat online, promoting work from home, mothers cradling a baby. It can work for a few minutes, pero hati yung focus. Unfair rin kay baby if hindi ka 100% andyan for her. But I guess, iba rin talaga if walang help around, that’s another story. But for me, I make time, if work, work. I take breaks in between to play with baby, and make sure I end working on time too because she also expects me to play with her in the afternoon. Time management talaga. That’s how you give your 100% to anything you do, through undivided attention.


How do you cope with the pressures of your work and how do you take care of yourself?

Compared to working for corporate, less stress na talaga ang work ko ngayon. It comes I guess with selecting my battles. I choose work which fits me and my skills. In the few occasions that I get stressed, I stop, and divert my attention elsewhere. Taking a breather -- like going to baby’s room, or watching a short video clip, helps me refocus. I also start the day with prayer -- reading the Gospel and listening to worship songs. That starts my day right and set my mood. Next target ko talaga is include exercise.

Mommy Tets with her family.

Lastly, a mommy needs to hang out sometime and spend time for herself, where do you usually hangout or tambay?

I agree to that, we need social life. My weekends are always full -- either spend it with Couples for Christ activities (charismatic group where me and my husband is really committed), or if time permits, I really enjoy catching up with friends over coffee, even kami ni husband, we like exploring new coffee shops.

Mommy Tets has been an active member of the Couple for Christ community for over 2 decades!

Being a mom means being the managing director of the home. Our featured Inspiring Mommy today is even more than that, she's also the managing director of growing brands in South Luzon.



Mommy's Tambayan is amazed at how this mommy is able to manage her home and their businesses. Let's find out how she does it!

Hi Mommy Russell, could you please tell us about your kids?

I have 2 beautiful kids, Aica my eldest who is 5 and Phugz, who is 2, and another blessing coming out very soon 😁 Both are very sweet and loving kids.

Mommy Russell with her firstborn, Aica

Wow! A third one to add to the bunch! Tell us about your pregnancy. 

Yes, poppin' out in June. Conceived in Guangzhou during our business trip last September 2017, wala kasing stress that time. Haha! My first trimester was not easy as usual but as I moved on to the second trimester, I can travel almost everyday because we just opened our new branches in Las Piñas.

Mommy Russell with her second child, Phugz, and their third baby on the way.

How is it different for each of your children?

During my first pregnancy in 2012, I was an OFW then in Singapore. I was also a Restaurant Manager that time so I have to work even until I was 8 months pregnant. I can still remember what a customer said to me while I was inside the kitchen assembling food for them with a big tummy,
“What is she doing there?” Hahaha! My second child came when we decided to go home to the Philippines and decided to do business last 2016. I started with online selling of Egg Surprise that time and it was a hit! That was our start up, we do buy and sell, and we have several kiosks in the local malls here in Santa Cruz and Pagsanjan, Laguna. As I recall, me and my husband were in Divisoria almost every week even though my tummy is already big to buy goods as we personally select the items to sell aside from the Egg Surprise from Singapore and Hong Kong.

Wow! And how do you take care of your kids now that you are pregnant and also a mother of well-known businesses in Laguna?

I must admit that it is not easy to manage a business and be a mom at the same time. I have trusted people who helps me take care of them everyday whenever we are out for work. Aica is in senior kinder, and we make it a point that we are always present in all of her school activities. During examinations, I personally attend to her during reviews.

Galing! You must be an amazing mom to raise such kids. How do you make sure you give enough quality time for them given that you are the managing director of the Aica and Phugz brands?

We have family time every weekend to ensure that we are giving them enough time and attention despite our busy schedule. There are times also that we just stay home and play with them, watch movies or accompany them outside for a walk. That’s another advantage when you have your own business, you can manage your own time and adjust to your needs.

Mommy Russell and family on one of their weekend getaways.

You are more than just a super woman! Super successful pa ang businesses mo. Can you please share to our readers how you started with these brands? From our research, we learned that it started with a shop. How did the brand grow?

Mommy Russell with their Phugz Inasal family.

As mentioned earlier,  it was late 2015 when we decided to stay in the Philippines for good. During that time, usong uso sa kids yung Egg Surprise, even my daughter Aica is a big fan of it. It was not locally available that time here in the Philippines so I tried to post it online and to my surprise the demand was very high. It was when we started Aica’s Shop named after our daughter, with only Egg Surprise as our main product. We earned our first million in just 6 months! It was a very big blessing to us that we had the right product at the right time. After that, we decided to put up a physical store Aicashop in the local Malls here in Santa Cruz and Pagsanjan. Then, in late 2016, my husband conceptualized our own restaurant “Phugz Chicken Inasal and Bulalo Espesyal” named after our second child. I never thought that I will be managing my own restaurant, as having a restaurant is really hard work. There are many aspects that you need to manage such as product quality, manpower, expenses and of course profitability. It was a struggle at first as we have to find the right product, people, supplier and make a system for the restaurant. Thank God, we are now on our second year of operation. We always keep our kids in mind whenever we put up a new business, we observe that nowadays kids tend to stay at home and play with gadgets. They seldom get physical activities as it is very hot outside and sometimes it is not safe as well. We want a place where kids can enjoy with a very safe and conducive environment for learning as well. When Phugz brand reached its 3rd month and was already stable, we put up another business, an indoor playground named Aicaland. It was a learning playground as well as we have role playing and mind games stations. Currently, the Phugz brand have 3 branches which are in Pagsanjan, and Siniloan Laguna and Las Piñas, while we have 4 Aicaland indoor playgrounds which are in Pagsanjan, Laguna, Imus, Cavite, Metro East and Las Piñas.


Do you ever struggle with balancing your time with the business and your family?

There are times when we are out as early as 5am and get back home very late especially during the opening days of the new businesses. We have to take care of everything to ensure the smooth operation of the business. Every single detail matters to us as this will contribute to the overall success. We always take time to talk and explain to our daughter why we have to work hard and gladly, she understands. But after few months when a business becomes more stable, we spend more time with the kids to make up for the time that we were really busy. Time management is really essential as I also need to attend personally to the school matters of my daughter.



What would you advise aspiring moms who still want to pursue and manage their own business?

It is important to start. Be it online or a physical store, what is important is to start it. By doing this, you will have a feel on how to run your own business, on how hard or easy it is to earn your own money. Along the way, you will encounter failures and successes but you will gain new learnings that will help you improve and expand your business. If you fail, try again. If you succeed, keep the learnings and inspire others too.

Thanks for your encouraging advise, Mommy Russell. What do you think made your businesses and family succeed?

I am blessed with a supportive and encouraging husband. When we got married, I started to be the better version of me. He always pushes me to be the best that I can be, he trusts me more than anyone else. In managing all our business it is not only me, we are a TEAM. Two minds, two bodies but only one goal to success. Our family and our kids’ future is our top priority and inspiration, and it fuels us everyday to keep going and reach for our dreams.

Mommy Russell credits her success to God and to her loving husband Paul

Lastly, how do you take care of yourself while balancing your role as a mommy and an entrepreneur? May favorite ka bang lugar na gusto tinatambayan? How do you take care of yourself?

I love to hangout with my husband. Wherever he brings me is a resting place for me, hahaha! We love to watch movies together - that’s our quick escape from stress everytime. When I was not yet pregnant, we used to go to the gym together. After giving birth, we are planning to have balik alindog program as well. Hehehe!

Thank you Mommy Russel! We are definitely sure that mommies who will read your story will be inspired to pursue their passion may it be in business or in any other field. Truly, being a mommy isn’t a reason not pursue what you want, but being a mom is even an inspiration to follow your passion. More blessings to you Mommy Russell and family, and God bless and a safe and easy delivery this June!

Mommy Russell Tobias-Fonte is the managing director of the Aicaland and Phugz brands in South Luzon. Together with her husband Paul, who co-founded and created the two growing companies, their advocacy is to bring families together and provide a wholesome and educational environment for children.

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Moms would always want the best for their children. But what if "what is best" means giving up a successful corporate career? Will you give it all up? Today's featured Mommy did that - and even more!


For Mommy Sheila Brinosa of San Pablo City, Laguna, giving up her corporate career was one of the best decisions she ever made. Working for different multinational companies and climbing up the corporate ladder was her life for over a decade, but even from all the recognition she had while working for corporate giants, she realized that there is something more. And that's what she will share with us today.

Hi Mommy Sheila, please tell us about how your kids.

I have two wonderful kids. Kurt Matthew who is 15 years old, and Ursula Nicole who is 12 years old. I may say sila ay typical na makukulit at magugulong bata. Madalas di magkasundo kasi magkaiba ang hilig nilang gawin. Minsan pasaway, moody at mahirap utusan sa gawaing bahay. Ganyan ata ngayon ang kabataan. Pero alam mo ang pinaka gusto ko sa kanila, pareho silang sweet at mapagmahal na anak. Yung tipong minsan masakit ang likod mo, nandyan sila hihilutin ka, minsan naman gagawa sila ng card o ano mang artwork na may message na tipong di mo napapansin habang binabasa mo yung message may luha ka na pala, kasi super na touch ka. Ang sarap ng feeling ng isang ina, na tinitingnan mo sila habang sarap na sarap sa niluto mong ulam. I ha hug ka at ikikiss sabay sabing lutuin mo ulit to mommy ha. Sila din yung tipo ng bata na di masyadong magastos. In fact, di sila mahilig sa mamahaling bagay (na damit at sapatos). Sa edad nila ngayon conscious na sila price ng bawat bibilhin nilang items. Lagi ko kasing sinasabi sa kanila na may budget lang kaming sinusunod kaya di pwedeng mag exceed or else mangungutang na kami sa kapitbahay. E ayaw nila yun kaya ayun nasanay na di masyado nag papabili. Sa personality naman, naku totally mag kaiba, si Kurt medyo suplado ng kaunti kasi mahiyain at mas enjoy sa bahay , mahilig mag basa ng mga fiction books at mag internet. Si Nicole naman medyo out going, mahilig sa sports like basketball and badminton and she is also friendly.

Mommy Sheila is a proud mom of two practical and sweet kids, Kurt Matthew and Ursula Nicole.

Tell us about them growing up. And how are you as a mother to them?

Right now, nasa adjustment period pa rin ako sa kanila pag dating sa transition ng from bata na dati sunod lang ng sunod sayo ngayon iba na, may sarili na silang desisyon sa mga bagay bagay. Kung nung bata ayaw ka nila payagan umalis kung di sila kasama ngayon open na sila sa mga line up ng schedules ko. Masyado akong attached sa mga anak ko kasi dadalawa naman yan kaya talagang ingat na ingat ako sa kanila. Lalo na kay Kurt kasi may mga kaibigan na nag yayaya kung saan-saan, like malling, swimming, jogging etc. Before ko payagan katakot takot na bilin ko sa kanya pati sa mga kaibigan nya. Yung tipong lagi ako nag papaupdate sa kanya kung nasaan na sya para secure ako na safe sya. Minsan nga nasasabihang Over protective MOM pero okay lang kasi yun ako eh. Si Nicole naman sa ngayon mas gusto pa rin nya ang sumasama sa aking mga lakad. Medyo isip bata pa rin sya. Tinanong ko nga sya kung sa Grade 7 'di na sya mag papahatid sundo sa akin eh. Sabi nya ganon pa din daw- hatid at sundo pa rin. Ako as a mother, I'm willing to sacrifice my career for my kids. I want to serve them as much as I could kasi pag matanda na ko di ko na sila kayang pag silbihan. Gusto ko lahat ng milestones nila masundan ko. Kaya kahit anong busy ko sa work ako pa rin nag aasikaso sa kanila, nag aattend sa different events sa school. Wala kasi daddy nila nag wowork sa barko kaya talagang dapat lagi akong nandyan for them.

Mommy Sheila is still adjusting with her kids transition from being "children" to becoming "teenagers".

How were you able to balance your corporate career while taking care of them?

It was really hard to balance both, talagang minsan nag sa suffer. Minsan may mga sabay na schedules sa office at school events ng mga bata. Dyan na pumapasok ang support system ng family. Buti nandyan ang mahal kong mga magulang, na handang sumalo sa mga schedules na 'di talaga ako pwede like kapag may conventions in and out of the country, meetings and presentations sa big clients. Good thing kung local trip lang at natapat ng weekend ang event ko, for sure kasama ko sila, bonding time na din namin yun. Basta lagi ko kasama yung wonderful assistant kong si Ate Juvy. Habang nag wowork ako dun sa event  nandun naman sya nag babantay sa kids. Kaya dapat talaga mahalin natin ang ating mga yaya kasi sila nandyan handang umalalay sayo sa lahat ng bagay. Kung walang support system sa life ko naku baka di ko na kinaya lahat . Of course may pressure sa work and at the same time pressure sa family life lalo na wala ang aking mahal na asawa sa tabi ko. Lagi ko din ineexplain to our kids that we need to work for our future. Kaya sila tanggap nila na they have busy parents at nakikita naman nila na kahit busy ako hangga't kaya iadjust schedule ginagawa ko. Kaya alam nila na kapag nawala ako sa event nila it means di ko naimove or sobrang importante ng gagawin ko sa office kaya di ako nakapunta. Its just a matter of explaining to your kids the real scenario. Make them feel na sila talaga ang importante sa buhay mo.   

Mommy Sheila and her long time assistant, Juvy

You’ve worked for many years in a corporate setting, why did you quit it to become a wellness coach? 

That’s a good question, Bakit nga ba?..
Kapag mataas na ang position  mo sa company parang ang  hirap na iwanan. Lalo na at maganda ang compensation plan, pa kotse, pa gasolina, reimbursable ang meals, free Trip abroad every year US and Asian countries. Ang hirap talaga, kaya matagal ko bago napag desisyunan ang aking pag iwan sa corporate world, masaya at glamorous kasi . I have learned so many things sa corporate world, sino ba naman ako. Isa lang po akong simpleng probinsyana na taga San Pablo, Laguna 'di ko akalain na makakapagtrabaho sa pinakasosyal na lugar sa Manila. Akalain mo naging Makati Girl ako!

Mommy Sheila is a loving wife to a seafarer.

Nung panahon ko kapag dyan ka nag wowork belong ka sa mga Elite. Na kapag tinanong ang anak mo san nag wowork ang Mommy mo sabihin nila sa Makati po. Sasabihin nila "Aba ibang level pala ang Mommy ni Kurt at ni Nicole ah!" But the thing is, dumating ang time na talagang pabigat na ng pabigat ang responsibilities ko sa company lalo nung napromote ulit ako tapos lumalaki na din ma bata medyo iba na ang needs nila. Nahati talaga isip ko. Ano ba talaga pipiliin ko: Career or Family?Syempre bilang ina mas priority ko family ko lalo na OFW husband ko, dapat may isang gagabay sa mga anak ko. To tell you the truth tinanong ko mga anak ko, mga anak ano mas gusto nya mag work pa rin si mommy or sa house na lang muna ako at alagaan ko kayo. Nag sigawan sila sa tuwa sabi nila better daw na kasama nila ako . Di naman daw sila mag papabili ng kung ano ano kaya kahit wala akong work, okay lang. Syempre bago ang final decision eh nag sabi muna ako sa ever supportive husband. Kasi syempre mag iisa na sya sa pag wowork para sa pamilya. Pinag usapan namin kasi malaking adjustment to para sa aming lahat. Ibinalik nya ang tanong sa akin. Are you willing to give up your career? Sabi ko para sa mga anak mo at sayo, OO! Sa madaling salita , plain housewife ang PEG ko! Napansin ko na lang isang araw parang pataba na ko ng pataba. Yung mga damit ko di na kasya sa akin pati wedding ring namin di na kasya sa daliri ko!!! Sabi ko sa sarili ko, teka di ako pwedeng makita ng asawa ko pag uwi na mukhang nalosyang na ewan! From glamorous look naging losyang look! OMG! I need to do something. That's the time nakilala ko ang Herbalife. Nagtake ako ng 10 Day weight loss program nila. I was so amazed kasi in 10 days nag lose ako ng 7 pounds! Ang hirap gawin nun pero sa Herbalife products nagawa ko. Dun na nagsimula na maging love yung products. Then nag attend ako ng seminars for members and I decided to become a member to avail discounts. Pero nun marami ng nag ask, what did I do and want to avail the products dun na ko nag simula na mag try maging wellness coach. With proper training naman madali lang gawin. The best thing is that 50% ko nabibili  ang products kasi supervisor na ako. Gumaganda na ang katawan ko kumita pa ako at maraming natutuwa sa akin at nag papasalamat kasi nag improved din pakiramdam nila just like me. I am happy to serve people. At naniniwala ako " A Healthy Body is a Happy Body". Iniisip ko din since registered nurse naman ako in line din naman ang pagiging wellness coach ko.



Wow, you are blessed to have that opportunity, and hindi lang corporate career ang ginive up mo, even the fats! Seriously, sobrang naging blessing pala ng pag give up nyo sa corporate career nyo.

What can you advise moms who want to leave the corporate jungle to pursue their passions? Is it really worth it?

Do not be afraid to try something new. Sometimes talaga, takot tayo mag umpisa ulit kasi gusto natin lagi tayo sa sa comfort zone . Ayaw na nating masyado mapagod, natatakot din tayong mag fail. Pero ang masasabi ko lang sa mga readers natin, Do not be afraid. Assess nyo kung ano yung hilig nyo at nag eenjoy kayo para yung ginagawa nyo parang di sya work. In addition, dito sa pagiging wellness coach ko ikaw mag dedefine ng oras mo sa negosyo mo. In other words, mas may time ako sa mga anak ko at sa sarili ko. Ako kasi gumagawa ng schedules ko. I want to be productive everyday kaya nakasulat lahat ng line up of activities ko para wala makalimutan. Ang kaibahan sa corporate job ko, sure ako na may salary ako every 15th and 30th. Dito sa work ko now ikaw ang mag dedecide kung how much ang gusto mo income. Kasi depende lahat sa sipag mo ang salary mo. The more na marami kang events the more na malaki ang income mo. Kasi marami bibili ng products mo.
Maaring di pa napapantayan ng present income ko yung dati kong trabaho pero ang masasabi ko lang eh laking ginhawa ko ngayon. Bakit? Less ang pressure, may oras ako sa lahat ng bagay especially sa family ko at higit sa lahat nakakatulong ako sa kapwa ko. Ang sarap ng feeling na yung mga clients mo abot abot ang pasasalamat kasi they feel better. Different walks of life din mga clients ko: merong mga professionals, mga simpleng mamamayan na nagtitinda sa palengke, meron din mga bagets, meron din mga seniors. Lahat sila pinag sama sama sa iisang lugar (sa Nutrition Club ko) kaya happy talaga silang lahat. In fact sa Nutrition club ko bawal ang HUGOT dapat good vibes lagi para mas mamotivate kaming lahat. And if you will ask me kung worth it? It's a BIG YES! I may not be earning na kasing laki ng dati kong salary pero I am positive with what I am doing right now maaring malampasan pa ang income ko yung previous work ko. Di lang yun, yung dumami ang kaibigan mo at mas naging FREE ka sa lahat ng bagay. Pak na Pak na yun!

Is giving up a corporate career worth it? Mommy Sheila says, yes! And she even gets to do what she love at her own pace and time!

Thank you for that Mommy Sheila, you really are a dedicated mommy. You have given advise to mommies regarding their career decision, what advise can you give to moms who are struggling to balance work and career?

Be ready! You need to have a Healthy Body to do all your functions. Kasi tayong mga mommies nakatadhana na maraming ginagampanan sa buhay. Kapag napabayaan mo alin man sa mga ito , may bad effects sa buhay natin. At ang isa ko pang advise eh wag namang pabayaan ang sarili. Minsan kasi sa sobrang pag aasikaso sa mga mahal sa buhay napapabayaan na pati sariling katawan. Yung tipong nakakalimutan ng mag suklay at mag paganda kasi ang reason nila sa bahay lang sila. At eto pa ang ending, lahat ng tira ng anak nila sila kumakain kaya ayun di namamalayan lumalaki na pala sila! Imagine di na kakapag suklay, 'di nakapag paganda eh may sobrang timbang pa.
In addition, alam mo as per my analysis, proud din naman mga kids natin kapag nakikita nila na maayos ka bilang ina. Yung kapag aattend ka ng meeting sa school presentable ka. Di ko sinasabi na bumili ka ng mga mamahaling damit, basta bagay sayo oks na yun. Minsan din mag basa ka ng mga articles at books para naman kapag may tinanong ang anak mo may pwede ka ishare na information sa kanila.

Being a mommy should never be an excuse to look good and feel good according to Mommy Sheila.

Wow, that is very encouraging. How is life different now that you are a wellness coach? 

As I have mentioned earlier, it's totally different when it comes to compensation kasi today 'di na limited ang income ko. Ako na ang mag dedefine kung how much income gusto ko. Sa job description naman pareho, kasi majority pakikitungo sa mga clients just like my corporate life.
As wellness coach you should be more disciplined pag dating sa intake ng food. Dapat inaaral mo din anong strategy ang ipapagawa mo sa client para maachieve nya ang weight goal.

Yes, we saw your before and after pics, how were able to achieve weight loss while taking care of your children? It must be challenging!

Its a process na dinaanan ko. Ang hirap pag labanan ng masarap na nakahain na pagkain kapag kasama ang mga anak ko. The thing is I requested them to change our breakfast and they supported me for that. Lahat kami sa umaga breakfast namin ay shake! Sabi ko nga sa kanila instead of eating carbo loaded breakfast eh eto na lang shake kasi its a Nutrient Densed Packed Meal and its a perfect meal replacement for active individuals just like us. Ayun mukha namang naconvince ko sila. Minsan hinahayaan ko din silang kumain ng regular breakfast pero kadalasan shake lang lalo at nagmamadali kami lagi sa umaga. Now they accepted already na talagang priority sa breakfast ang shake.

A healthy family: Mommy Sheila has also influenced her kids to eat healthy.

That’s really inspiring! Lastly, a mommy needs to hang out sometime and spend time for herself, where do you usually hangout or tambay?

Dance Studio, Parlor and SPA. We are promoting 80% Nutrition 20% Exercise. Kaya kapag kaya ng oras may 1 hour akong Zumba session with friends. Pawis to the max kami . Iba kasi ang energy kapag maganda ang blood flow sa katawan pati mood laging maganda at happy. Minsan naman feel ko mag paayos ng buhok, manicure at pedicure kaya di ko rin nakakalimutang ang parlor and lastly eh massage. Iba kasi ang relaxation hapag hinihilot ka parang sobrang relax ng mind and body mo.

Mommy Sheila with her Nutrition Club group.

We totally agree, Mommy Sheila! And thank you for spending you time with us here at the Tambayan. We are sure maraming mga mommies na nahihirapan magdesisyon ay maiinspire nyo, kaya thank you uli. Being a mother really should be the higher priority over any career! And when all goes well in a Mom's life, everything follows.

Thank you din for this opportunity to share my story with other mommies. If may mahirap tayo na decision, isip lang natin palagi, para kanino yung decision na yun and everything will go well, and better than expected.

Mommy Sheila is a perfect example of what it means to give up everything for motherhood. She may have spent some years at the beginning but her love for her children prevailed and has made the best decision to choose family over any other priorities. Being a wellness coach, she is able to focus more on taking care of her family while doing what she loves - coaching about health.

Mommy's Tambayan thanks Mommy Sheila Brinosa for giving us the opportunity to give inspiration to other moms. This weekend, Mommy Sheila is inviting moms for the one-can-challenge to be held in Joyful Restaurant San Pablo City. 

For wellness consultation, you may contact Mommy Sheila through Facebook Messenger.