Meet Blair Agero, a 45-year-old Senior Hand & Occupational Therapist currently shaping lives at Mediclinic Parkview in Dubai. With a mantra as empowering as “I am my thoughts. I create my reality,” he reflects on his enriching journey spanning 24 years in the field and 16 transformative years abroad.
Blair’s academic endeavors led him to earn an undergraduate degree in Bachelor of Science in Occupational Therapy from the University of Perpetual Help System in Manila, Philippines (1999), followed by post-graduate specializations in Hand Therapy from the University of Derbyshire in the United Kingdom (2014) and the Universidad Internacional de Andalucia in Spain (2022).
He recalls how, in February 2007, he embraced the unknown, leaving his roles as an Occupational Therapy Supervisor in Quezon City and a Freelance Features Writer for The Manila Bulletin to venture into Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.
“I came to the country upon the invitation and sponsorship of my close friend Jelene Bihis-Sumallo,” shares Blair with The Global Filipino Magazine, expressing gratitude for the support that helped him establish his footing in the UAE.
Overcoming challenges and savoring success
Blair’s journey was not devoid of challenges. After initially working as a Marketing Assistant in a Real Estate Property company in Dubai, he transitioned into Occupational Therapy, continuously advancing his career and acquiring specialized skills through international training.
“It was my creative skills that kept me afloat for a few months before my efforts to secure a post as an Occupational Therapist bore fruit in August 2007,” he narrates.
One of the most significant highlights of his career was presenting an e-poster at the 11th Triennial International Federation of Societies for Hand Therapy Congress in Berlin, Germany.
“For my work on ‘The Therapeutic Management of Athletes with post-TFCC Repair’ to be selected among the hundreds of abstracts that were submitted from all over the globe is indeed an honor,” Blair proudly mentions.
His decision to work abroad was fueled by a desire to improve his financial position, support his pursuit of further education, and aid his aging grandmother.
“Working in Dubai allowed me to do both without the need to have two jobs,” he explains.
Blair’s passion for Hand Therapy has significantly contributed to its recognition and development in the UAE. Representing the UAE in the International Federation of Societies for Hand Therapy (IFSHT) since 2012, he has been instrumental in increasing awareness about the specialized practice.
“What I find most satisfying in my practice is helping people, including professional athletes, recover their hand function after surgery or injury,” he says.
Blair enjoys the cultural diversity and rich tapestry of experiences that working overseas offers.
“Interactions with my patients are like reading a short and immersive story,” he muses, finding joy in every unique interaction adding depth to his personal experiences.
Facing challenges, Blair found strength in his friendships and persevered through trying times, especially when dealing with delayed compensation.
“I relied on the assistance of my close friend Jelene and a couple of other friends I met here in Dubai,” he confesses.
Looking towards the future, Blair aspires to become a visiting professor in the Philippines and contribute to children’s education. He passionately shares, “It is my belief that basic education, to learn how to read, write, do arithmetic and learning how to reason are basic human rights.”
Blair leaves some thoughtful advice for his fellow kabayans, emphasizing clarity of goals, strategic planning, self-investment, and gratitude.
“All great things, big and small, take time. And once you do get it, celebrate, and give thanks,” he encourages.
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This article has been published in Volume 4, Issue 5 of The Global Filipino Magazine. If you have a unique life story or know someone who does, we’d love to hear from you. Reach out to us at eic@theglobalfilipinomagazine.com. If you’re interested in obtaining a print copy of the magazine, please contact Mr. JP Cosico at +971 54 482 0661.