Purr
By Kathy M. Villalon
Photography for a cause
The beauty of the world is at our fingertips. What can you do to give more meaning to it? For Dr. Socorro Martinez, she used her hobby, which is photography, to further a cause. Photographs exhibited in her one-woman exhibit starting last Oct. 20 until Nov. 16, 2007, are for sale and the proceeds will be donated to the Mga Kaibigan ng mga Kabataang May Kanser (KKK) where she is also a member. This is a no-stock and non-profit organization formed last April. It was through over a cup of coffee that discussions on forming such organization took place. "We talked about life and wanted to do something beyond ourselves," Dr. Martinez said.
At present, KKK is supporting the medical treatment of three children with leukemia. The patients are ages five, six and 14 and residents of Pavia, Dumangas and Guimaras.
Once they raise more funds, the group will give spiritual and emotional support to the patients and their families as well. "We visited their homes and we found out they have other needs apart from the financial aspect. Eventually, we could create a support group for the family of the pediatric cancer patients," Dr. Martinez said.
This Dec. 15 and 16, KKK is coming out with two plays --- Tatlo Tatlo and Sistema ni Professor Tuko --- to be performed by "Entablado," the Ateneo Group from Manila that will render service for free. The plays will be held at the SPED Activity Center.
"We have discovered that a lot of people are wiling to help but they are looking for the right project or medium. It's like, we're putting together people who need help and those who want to give help," Dr. Martinez said.
"I just combined my passion in photography and used it as a channel to help the kids. It's not just appreciating beauty but using it to help other people. This exhibit is a thanksgiving for all the blessings I received," she added.
To those who want to be a member, contact Dr. Martinez at 0917-3031-400 or e-mail to kuramar91@hotmail.com. "The help does not necessarily be financial only. If somebody is good in computer, help us in the website. A teacher, can help us with the workshop. If you have ideas. You can help in so many ways," she said.
Those who wish to purchase photographs or view the exhibit can visit Newpost, General Luna.
QUOTE: Use your talents to make a difference in people's lives, thus making this world a better place to be in. For the glory of God.