Rochelle Pondare: A Little Lady’s Big Dreams

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Despite the physical minuteness of Rochelle Pondare brought about by a rare genetic disorder called Progeria, her big heart - filled with her big dreams – inevitably prevailed.

Rochelle is known to be the only Filipino inflicted with Progeria. The disorder is manifested by premature aging. People diagnosed with this disorder are characterized to have small and fragile bodies. Except for this unusual affliction, Rochelle is just like other typical teenagers. She enjoys watching television shows, loves music, and gushes over her favorite artists. But most importantly, she is also a dreamer, a wisher.

“Wish ko po na maging isang singer at recording artist.” (I wish I could be a singer and a recording artist.)

Rochelle may not be as big as her wish is, but that did not become a hindrance for her dreams to be fulfilled. Fortunately, this wish of hers was one of the many wishes made come true by Wish1075.

At the launching concert of Wish 107.5 on August 10, 2014 held at the World Trade Center, Pasay City, Rochelle was warmly welcomed on stage to perform a couple of songs live before the concert’s massive audience.

The big crowd was wowed by Rochelle’s vocal prowess.

Her heartfelt rendition of Celine Dion’s “To Love You More” made her a well-adored performer as the magic of her voice sent warmth to each of her audience. Her performance of M2M’s “Pretty Boy” brought the spectators down their own memory lanes – right where they have given their innocent love to the one they have long dreamt of.

It was a sight to behold – a sight of a dream that has come true.

Rochelle Pondare’s ailment may be deemed unfortunate by most people, but having her wish of being a singer, a true performer, even just for a night, many may now see her as one of the luckiest teenagers in the world.

Behind her physical minuteness lives a soul of a hopeful Rochelle, eagerly looking forward to those days where more of her wishes will be fulfilled.

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