I wish to have a computer

On December 11, 2004, Arvy Juhnerry Vallado was treated to a day that he will never forget.

9-year-old Arvy, who is diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia, has always been fascinated with computers. He frequented houses with PCs and often watched other kids play with computer games. Every once in a while, he’d get his turn on the computer but of course there never seemed to be enough time to play.

On a faithful Saturday morning, Arvy found himself having lessons in a computer school in Makati. Different teachers took turns showing him basics through educational games. Arvy was able to accomplish all his lessons with flying colors. He was a quick learner and it was apparent that he really had a knack for computers.

After a few hours of lessons, it was finally time to tell Arvy that the computer he was using was actually going to be his own personal computer. He could finally take all the time in the world to play games with his brothers. He was a little stunned when we told him—not moving or talking much—but we could all see the smile he was trying to hold back. He studied how to assemble/disassemble the unit and joyfully helped pack the computer for its long trip home.

Though he started the day being a little shy, Arvy slowly warmed up to everyone as the day progressed. By the time we were all having lunch, he and his brother JR were all over the Jollibee branch where we ate. They were finally their playful and rowdy selves. The make-a-wish volunteers had to run around just to contain the two boys. The once quiet little kid was now at his prime. He was shouting, playing games, and would disappear every thirty seconds. Their smiles were contagious and quite heartwarming.

By the time Arvy and his family had to go home, there was a certain look in his eyes that I can only describe as reminiscent. After months of waiting, he was finally going to take home his very own computer. As their taxi crept further, Arvy stared out his passenger window with a content smile on his face.