International Day of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) (3 December 2025): Wilbur’s Journey of Courage, Positivity and Strength

Wilbur (first from right) with his siblings

Wilbur with his family

Born on 1 January 2012, Wilbur came into the world as a joyful New Year’s baby. His early years were filled with laughter and milestones, but his parents noticed that he was slower to walk and often lost his balance. Though doctors initially advised that it was too early to tell if anything was wrong, further observations eventually led to a referral to the National University Hospital (NUH) for genetic testing. In 2017, Wilbur was diagnosed with Duchenne muscular dystrophy, a progressive condition that causes muscle weakness over time. 

Despite the challenges that came his way, Wilbur continues to show courage and resilience in every part of his journey. 

Wilbur, who has one older sister and two younger brothers, began his schooling at Keming Primary School in 2019. When he started using a wheelchair, the school went above and beyond to ensure accessibility, even modifying the campus with ramps and raised pathways so Wilbur could move around with greater ease. “The school was very supportive,” shares his mother with gratitude. By the end of 2021, Wilbur had transitioned to a motorised wheelchair, gaining more independence. 

Wilbur at a Boccia Competition

Now a student at Hillgrove Secondary School, Wilbur continues to thrive. His school has also been proactive in supporting his needs, and in August 2025, he proudly represented Hillgrove in Play Inclusive — Singapore’s largest inclusive sports event. There, he discovered boccia, a precision ball sport designed for athletes with physical disabilities, which has since become his co-curricular activity (CCA). Just a few months later, in November 2025, Wilbur won a silver medal in his first official competition representing the Muscular Dystrophy Association (Singapore). 

Wilbur joined Club Rainbow (Singapore) in 2022, after being introduced through a social worker from KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital (KKH). Since then, Club Rainbow has supported his family with transport services to medical appointments — a crucial lifeline that lightens their daily load — and celebrates his special day each year with a birthday cake voucher, bringing a smile to his face. 

When he’s not in school or training, Wilbur enjoys playing mobile games, a hobby that keeps him entertained and connected with friends. While he’s still exploring what the future holds, his parents’ hope is simple yet heartfelt — that he will one day be able to “find a simple job and earn a living for himself.” 

Wilbur’s positive outlook continues to inspire those around him. His message to others is one that beautifully captures his spirit: 

“Be positive and see things in a happier way.” 

This International Day of Persons with Disabilities, we celebrate Wilbur’s courage, optimism, and the unwavering support of his family — a reminder that with inclusion, understanding, and hope, every child can thrive and chase their dreams. 

International Day of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) is observed every year on 3 December – This United Nations-recognised day aims to promote understanding and acceptance of people with disabilities, raise awareness of disability issues, and mobilise support for the inclusion of persons with disabilities in all aspects of life. 

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