With her profound joy, broadcast journalist Karen Davila shared on social media her proud mommy moment after her son, David, who is with autism spectrum disorder, was admitted to the Associate of Arts undergraduate program at the University of the Philippines-Diliman College of Fine Arts.
Karen is an active advocate of autism awareness and is active in documenting his son's developments, talents, and achievements to inspire others in the same situation.
Early this year, David had training at a Korean lifestyle retail store before having an internship in a cafe.
David also exhibited his art pieces, which comprised hand-made paintings, digital paintings, and photography. Proceeds from his art pieces will be donated to "Bahay Aruga", a foundation that helps children with cancer.
"Last May 2023, David took the talent determination test along with hundreds of students at the UP Diliman campus. No parents allowed during testing. By June, we got the letter that David made it! My heart was bursting with joy!" Karen wrote on her Instagram.
"Preparing a child in the autism spectrum for college takes a lot of support & planning. Thank [you[ so much to my alma mater - UP Diliman, the officials of UPCFA for choosing Inclusivity," Karen added.
Karen earned her Bachelor of Arts with a Major in Mass Communication at the University of the Philippines-Diliman.
Moreover, she also acknowledged her son's teachers at the Vanguard Academy for their support in helping him fully adjust in college.
"For now, David is accompanied by his teachers from Vanguard-helping him adjust to college life & his classes. I love @thevanguardacademyph teachers- for being with David on his journey! It is true, "It takes a village to raise a child" Even more so, a child with special needs. Thank you teachers, David is in college because of all of you. I hope this serves as an inspiration to my co-parents out there!" Karen further wrote.
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