Tailor
“My name is Helmi Pangaribuan. I am the eldest of four children in my family – two girls and two boys.
My parents knew of my condition before I was born. My mother was able to accept and say that this is part of God’s plan, but my father struggled to accept how I am. He would ignore me.
My mother passed away from cancer when I was 12 years old. I felt very sad. I didn’t understand all that was happening to my feelings. I was sent to a special school for Grade 6 so that I could do therapy sessions.
I came back to attend Junior High School. My father continued to ignore me. This was very painful for me. He would not support me, so I had to do jobs like other student’s homework, carry things etc to try and get some money for my books and uniform. I felt very lonely. I missed my mother. Even my friends at school teased me about my condition. I felt more sadness.
At school I joined the vocational classes and learnt sewing. They provided me with a sewing machine. I stayed with my grandmother. My father ignored me and gave me no support, but he would support my brothers and sister.
Country
Indonesia
Who you support
Helmi, sister and daughter
Occupation
Tailor
After graduating, I stayed at PK Hephata for 5 months. I had a lot of health issues – pain in my back and chest. This made it hard to me to accept any jobs as I couldn’t make an agreement to finish the work because of my sicknesses.
I came back to Toba to join one of my teachers in her tailoring business. I wanted to show people that I can be like others….especially my father. After two years, I wanted to have my own business, so I started tailoring from my grandparent’s house. I am still doing that.
I joined the People living with Disability (PWD) Group in 2022.
"I'm happy being in this group because I feel equal amongst these people."
I’m happy being in this group because I feel equal amongst these people. I like sharing skills and stories with the others in the group. It is such a blessing to me. I see others with disability and am inspired by each of them and what they are doing. They are like my family who DO give support.
I am thankful that PK Hephata get these groups started and then let us make decisions. In the future I would like to own my own business so that I can help others. I want to share my journey and say to them that they also have strength within.
I am also grateful for my grandmother who gave me advice and encouragement when I needed it. Love is more than money!
