A teacher from Sindangan, Zamboanga del Norte is seeking help on social media this Christmas for a student-athlete she encountered who plays the sport Bocce.

This, after meeting the skillful player but appears thin and easily fatigued. Hence, the Zamboanga teacher appeals help for bocce player who suffers from malnutrition.

Teacher Cyrell Meets Mikel

Bocce is a ball game designed for learners with special needs. Cyrell Jones “CJ” Sidlao, who served as a technical official for the event during the provincial meet in their town, came across Mikel, a player she noticed for his skill in Bocce but who appeared thin and easily fatigued.

She was surprised to learn that Mikel is already 21 years old, which was not apparent from his height and physique.

Teacher Appeals Help for Student Athlete Suffering from Malnutrition

The teacher is appealing to netizens this holiday season to extend help to Mikel, so he can have proper meals and receive the nutrition he needs.

“Mickel is 21 years old from Salug and na meet nako ni siya during Provincial Meet. Nalooy kaayo ko sa iyang Health Condition at his age. While playing, maklaro jud nga dali ra siya maluya pero naningkamot na makadaog & he won. Hopefully tabangan nato siya para makadula siya sa Regional Meet.

“Lets show our love to him this Christmas Day [Si Mickel ay 21 taong gulang mula sa Salug, at nakilala ko siya noong Provincial Meet. Naawa talaga ako sa kanyang kalagayan sa kalusugan sa kabila ng kanyang edad. Habang naglalaro, kitang-kita na madali siyang mapagod, pero nagsikap siya para manalo—at nanalo siya.

“Sana matulungan natin siya para makalaro siya sa Regional Meet. Ipakita natin ang ating pagmamahal sa kanya ngayong Pasko.],” in can be read on his Facebook post last December 24.

Mikel’s Determination is Symbol of Resilience

In an exclusive interview with Balita, Teacher CJ shared that she felt deep compassion for the student-athlete, especially after learning about the hardships he faces in life.

Despite these challenges, Mikel’s determination to play and compete in the meet remains evident, serving as a symbol of his resilience in life.

For those who wish to extend help to Mikel, please reach out through Teacher CJ’s Facebook account or send assistance via GCash at this number: 09177776617.