My Mother, My Idol, directed by Mary Edest Oca (Australia, 2023), is a short film included in the Focus on Ability International Short Film Festival. Rather than presenting a simple narrative, it explores themes around accident, achievement, adult life, amputee and medical disability, employment and motivation, and the role of teaching. The film offers a considered look at how these issues intersect for individuals, and sits naturally among other works that celebrate resilience and capability. Festival audiences will find a film that prompts reflection on work, identity and someone’s relationship with a role model, while fitting the festival’s aim to highlight lived experience and accomplishment.
My mother, my idol, my mother-in-law, Marilindy Parini, she's a grade 1 teacher and the school head of Sabang Elementary School. She has been working as a teacher since July 16, 1987, a total of 36 years of service as an educator. She wasn't born disabled. She got into an accident which caused her to lose an arm, a left arm to be specific. A tragic event happened in the year 1990 that will leave a permanent scar and impendiment throughout her life. It happened when she was on her way home from school and a track accidentally hit the jeep she was riding. It hit her left arm which tore her whole left arm apart. Luckily, she was rushed to the hospital and survived the said tragedy. However, my mother-in-law always mentioned that it was never easy on her part to lose her arm. Going through the daily basis between adjusting to her routine and also learn to balance herself with all the responsibilities. Being disabled never hindered my mother-in-law's profession to teach and educate children. Rather, she became more passionate and braver to overcome all challenges in life. She always said that the children are our future and seeing those little kids grow up and have a career of their own makes her life fulfilling, dignified, and honored. Aside from being a teacher, she is also a full-time grandmother to my son and my nephew. Being disabled did not stop her from carrying her grandsons. She even tutors my 5-year-old son at night. Every follow-up on the development of a grandson is a blister. She is committed to let them explore different aspects in life which will benefit them someday. She wanted to visit to Australia someday where her mother resides in Tasmania. But due to the circumstances of her birth, everything is up to hold for now. Hence, it did not stop her to dream of the land down under. Despite being an illegitimate child, which lacks papers for her to get a passport, she is fighting her way out of the situation. Currently, she was able to get in touch with a lawyer regarding her case and hopefully to finally visit here in Melbourne and Tasmania. Thank you for watching our short film. God bless you and goodbye.
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My Mother, My Idol by Mary Edest Oca (2023)
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My Mother, My Idol
by Mary Edest Oca - OPEN ENTRANT DOCUMENTARIES
