Driving Through Tics

By Herman M. Lagon

Riding with Marlon Fuentes was unique. Early this year, when I booked a ride in Pasay City to catch a conference, his profile caught my eye: over 5,000+ trips, 1,000+ badges, including 1,500+ for “Excellent Service,” and an almost perfect rating. His honest admission: “I have Tourette’s Syndrome.” stood out. I took the ride to find out.

A sign welcomed me to Marlon’s silver Toyota Innova: “Hope you understand my condition. Thank you!” His honesty was disarming. His facial twitches and shoulder jerks caught my attention. I considered canceling, but curiosity and empathy won. I had no idea this ride would be one of my most touching.

After Marlon started driving, I saw that his condition did not affect him. He drove with precision and caution, which many drivers lack. We navigated the busy city streets with Marlon’s professionalism. I felt comfortable as he explained his condition with humor and grace.

The neurological disorder Tourette Syndrome (TS) causes involuntary tics. These can range from simple eye blinking or shoulder shrugging to complex vocal tics or self-harm. Marlon’s tics were noticeable but did not affect his driving. I learned about his journey from being bullied as a child to becoming a famous Uber driver.

Marlon had many challenges as a child. Teachers and classmates sometimes laughed at his tics, making him a bullying target. He found comfort in the Philippine Tourette Syndrome Association (PTSA), which understood him. This community became Marlon’s second family, giving him the confidence to face the world.

TS patients face harsh and uninformed public reactions, making daily tasks difficult. Marlon recounted job losses and interview discrimination. Only resilience and his wife Rio’s unwavering support helped him find his calling as a driver. Rio, his most potent protector, confronted mockers and taught and empathized.

When his brother-in-law offered him an Uber car, Marlon started driving. At first, passengers were hesitant and requested early drop-off. They eventually accepted Marlon’s transparency and excellent service. Marlon received positive reviews and earned a rare six-star rating from Uber.

In one memorable ride, a certain Hazel Alvero considered canceling after seeing Marlon’s tics. Apprehension turned to admiration as she saw his professionalism. Hazel’s ride Facebook post went viral, emphasizing empathy and understanding. Public perception of Marlon changed for the better.

Marlon’s story is about changing society, not just overcoming a disability. His story emphasizes empathy and inclusion. Marlon, now a vlogger named ‘MarLon Tourette Vlog,’ has built community among his passengers by being open about his condition. Many now see him as an inspiration, proof that a disability does not limit ability or kindness.

His positivity and humor radiated throughout our ride. He joked about his tics, “People ask why I don’t stop. I say, ‘Who wants to be laughed at?’ It’s hard to stop, but I want to.” His resilience is shown by his ability to laugh at his condition while educating others.

Marlon is optimistic despite obstacles. He thinks his condition inspires others. “If we can show people that we can do it, anyone can do it,” he said. His message that empathy and understanding change lives resonates.

In a commercial for a toothpaste brand, Marlon eloquently shared in Filipino, “We each have our struggles in life, but my enemy isn’t my tics; it’s the doubts of other people. When that happens, you can’t just smile it away. It’s easy to believe what others say. But if I don’t have confidence in myself, how can others?” He added, “I care for my family the same way I care for my passengers. I’m already happy if I can drop them off with a smile.”

“Yes, I have Tourette’s, but that’s not all I have. I also have grit (May tibay din ako),” Marlon stated, highlighting his resilience and strength.

Marlon’s story shows that everyone’s path is different. I admire his courage in facing daily challenges and dedication to his job. As we neared my destination, I deeply respected Marlon and others like him, who handled life with grace, grit, and gratitude.

Riding with Marlon was more than a commute. It was an empathy lesson through the eyes of someone who overcomes daily adversity. His story inspires us to build a more inclusive society with understanding, respect, and support.

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Doc H fondly describes himself as a “student of and for life” who, like many others, aspires to a life-giving and why-driven world grounded in social justice and the pursuit of happiness. His views do not necessarily reflect those of the institutions he is employed or connected with.