Maritess “Tess” Aguilar grew up in Iloilo, where she was known in her community for her compassion. As a young girl, she often helped care for her grandmother who suffered from arthritis. She would patiently prepare her meals, help her walk around the yard, and even comb her hair before bedtime. Her family would tease her, calling her little nurse. But for Tess, it was not a chore it was love.
After finishing a caregiving course in the Philippines, Tess knew her calling was to help people. However, local opportunities were scarce, and the salary wasn’t enough to support her two children. Her husband worked as a tricycle driver, but their combined income barely covered school fees and daily needs. When she heard about the demand for caregivers in Canada, she saw a chance not only to use her skills but also to give her family a better life.
Leaving was heartbreaking. At the airport, her youngest son clung to her leg, crying, Mama, don’t go. Tess hugged him tightly and whispered, Mama will always be with you, even if I’m far. I’ll work hard so your future will be bright. With tears streaming down her face, she boarded the plane, her heart torn but determined.
Her first few months in Toronto were challenging. The snow shocked her it was the first time she had ever seen of felt such cold. She slipped on the ice more than once, laughing at herself but also secretly missing the warm Philippine sun. Her job involved caring for an elderly woman named Mrs. Collins, who suffered from dementia. At first, Mrs. Collins resisted her help, often forgetting who Tess was. But Tess, with her gentle patience, would sit beside her, tell stories, and sometimes sing Filipino lullabies. Slowly, Mrs. Collins warmed up to her, often holding her hand and calling her my sunshine.
The job was demanding long hours, heavy lifting, and emotional stress. There were nights Tess cried quietly in her small rented room, missing her children’s milestones. She would watch videos of school programs where her kids performed, wishing she could clap for them in person. Yet, those moments of loneliness fueled her determination. Every dollar she sent back home went to school tuition, groceries, and slowly, savings for their dream house.
Despite the hardships, Tess found joy in the small victories. Her children excelled in school, her husband proudly told neighbors, My wife is working hard in Canada, and Mrs. Collins family expressed deep gratitude for her care. Tess was not just earning money; she was making a real difference in someone’s life.
After several years, Tess finally returned home for a vacation. The reunion at the airport was overwhelming her children, now taller, ran to her with tears of joy. Her family had saved enough to build a modest but sturdy house, something Tess had always dreamed of.
Looking back, Tess realized her journey was more than about sacrifice. It was about resilience, love, and the strength of a mother who dared to chase opportunities abroad for the sake of her family. She often told her children, I may have missed some years with you, but everything I did was to build a future where we can all be together, without worry.
Her story, like many OFWs, was not just about leaving it was about enduring, hoping, and loving across distances.
