A widow with 4 children, 32 grandchildren, and 6 great grandchildren, Nanay Adelina C. Dolorzo graduated from Dasmariñas II Central School last July 2022 at the age of 75. Donned with white toga and a pink drape, Nanay Adelina proudly smiled for her graduation picture posted by one of her teachers, Mr. Joel Cervantes, who is very proud of her achievements.
According to Cervantes. Nanay is kindhearted, determined, and driven with her studies during their classes.
Nanay got the idea of enrolling herself to formal school while she was doing her “Lola Duties” of bringing her grandchildren to school. Her willingness to learn to write and read made her decide to enroll. Initially, she was offered to enroll to ALS but Nanay wanted to experience how it is to learn reading and writing lessons in a typical colorful classroom, typical noise of chatting pupils, and typical school girl in a uniform – all of these were her dreams during her childhood.
Like any other pupils, Nanay’s studies were also interrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic but her determination remained unfaltering. Through the help of her teachers, she receives her modules at home especially during the height of the situation provided that Nanay is a senior citizen with many restrictions to observe and to follow.
Nanay completed her studies in July 2022. Touched by her commitment to educate herself and to serve as inspiration to many, Mr. Cervantes conferred her with a special award and a medal he personally conceptualized. According to him, “Despite na 75 years na po sya nagtapos po sya ng pag aral.. Cert[ificate] of recognition [ang] binigay ko po sa kanya, at my ‘di kumuha ng medal last year [a]yun binigay ko po..pra maipakita sa kanya na proud po ako sa kanya at tuwang tuwa po sya..”
Many youngsters in this generation easily give up on the challenges they face in this life. If you are one of them, remember the story of Nanay Adelina – that there is no such word as “Late” for a person with determination for his dreams. Keep on fighting!
Keep of dreaming, young Dasmarineño!
