When 45-year-old Filipino Grab driver Marlon Fuentes picked up a family for a ride, he didn’t expect anything unusual. Fuentes, who has been driving with the ride-hailing service since 2019, lives with Tourette’s syndrome, a neurological condition that causes involuntary tics.
To help his passengers understand his condition, he hangs a sign on the back of his seat that reads, “I have Tourette syndrome. Hope you understand my condition.”
On this particular ride, a family of three entered the car: an 11-year-old boy in the front passenger seat, while his mother and likely sister settled into the back.
Shortly after they began their journey, the boy’s female relative noticed the sign and asked their mother, “Mom, what’s Tourette’s syndrome?” The mother explained as Fuentes continued to drive.
Kindness That Made an Impact
During their conversation, the boy observed Fuentes displaying some tics. His initial concern quickly turned into warmth when he made eye contact with Fuentes and offered a reassuring smile.
Fuentes then extended his hand for a high five, which the boy gladly returned.
As the ride progressed, the mother asked Fuentes about his condition, helping her son understand that the driver’s tics were involuntary. Showing empathy, the boy reached over and gently tapped Fuentes on the shoulder, conveying his support.
The Moment That Moved the Driver
What happened next took Fuentes by surprise. Moments later, the boy raised his hands and prayed for Fuentes, asking for his safety and well-being.
After the prayer, feeling a sense of familiarity, the boy asked Fuentes if he was the same person from the Colgate advertisement. Fuentes confirmed that he was, and the boy excitedly shared this revelation with his family members in the back seat.
The sincerity of the boy’s prayer touched Fuentes deeply. He thanked the boy, saying, “I’m happy because, at your age, you understand what I have.” This interaction left a strong impression on Fuentes, who felt a rare sense of acceptance and kindness from the young child.
As the ride ended, the positive feelings lingered, prompting Marlon to share this heartwarming experience on his Facebook page.
Breaking Down the Stigma of Tourette’s Syndrome
Tourette’s syndrome is often misunderstood, with many people assuming it affects a person’s ability to perform daily tasks safely. However, Fuentes is determined to challenge this misconception.
His experiences have resonated widely, earning over 9 million views on his Facebook post where he shared the boy’s kindness.
As reported by SPOT.ph, his ongoing advocacy, including vlogging on his page “Marlon Tourette Vlog,” aims to reduce the stigma associated with Tourette’s and educate the public about the disorder. Through his openness, Fuentes encourages others to look beyond his tics and see the person behind them.
Watch the video here:
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