Sharing the blessings

INSTEAD of celebrating a grand party in a posh restaurant surrounded by her friends in the entertainment industry, Cagayan de Oro’s pride Stephanie Mae Sol, Miss Teen Philippines 2004, opted to celebrate her birthday last January 22 in her hometown.

Steph, who has already inked a name in the showbiz industry as a commercial model and lady love of Capitan Awesome in the hit TV series of the same title aired over TV5, set aside her commitments in Manila and celebrated her 23rd birthday with the orphans at the Park Café in Divisoria.

Stephanie Mae Sol in her Darna costume spending her 23rd birthday with the less fortunate children in Cagayan de Oro. (Joey P. Nacalaban)

Transformed into a Darna costume, Steph became the “waitress” for the day as she served each little orphan with a sumptuous meal.

She also treated the kids with games and surprises.

Having witnessed her rather unique birthday celebration, I could see Steph’s heart melted away when the little kids rendered a birthday song as their way of thanking her for saving another meal.

Overwhelmed with emotions seeing how she made her guests happy despite the harsh reality, Steph promised to come back to celebrate her birthday with them.

As the sun started to set, it was her friends and family’s turn to surprise the birthday girl inside a restaurant.

The next day, Steph organized a fashion show dubbed “Solid Colors” held at SM City as a tribute for her mentors, with her producing colorful dresses designed by notable local designers.

She says the show is her way of thanking her mentors and also the Creator for all the blessings she received.

Despite her success, Steph remains humble who knows how to look back and give importance to the people who had helped her when she was still a typical Kagay-anon lass who once dreamed high.