Teresita ‘Tessie’ Vibat, known by her pen name Lorna Ramirez, recently celebrated several significant milestones in her life. October 2024 marked her 80th birthday, the launch of her 7th book, her 57th wedding anniversary, and the 10th anniversary since she first contributed her writing to The Philippine Times.
Lorna’s life has been one of both professional success and personal fulfilment. Born and educated in Manila, she earned a degree in Chemical Engineering and worked as a laboratory manager before migrating to Australia with her husband, Claro, and their two children, Carlo and Maria, in 1977. After building a career as a laboratory technician and chemist, she retired in 2000 to care for her first grandchild, turning her attention to writing in her later years.
At the launch event for her latest book, “My Heart & Soul,” held on 19 October 2024 at Avondale Heights Library in Melbourne, Lorna’s daughter-in-law, Marie Franze, introduced her with heartfelt admiration.
“This woman is amazing. She’s gone her journey, from… What can I say? From a retired chemist, she’s an absolute amazing author ’cause this is her seventh book. Can you believe that?” Marie Franze said.
She went on to marvel at Lorna’s dedication, stating, “people don’t even do that in a lifetime,” and highlighted her many talents, describing her as “a motivational speaker, a publisher, an amazing pianist, and a ghostwriter.”
During her speech, Tessie (Lorna) expressed gratitude for the love and support around her, acknowledging her “beloved supporting husband, Claro,” and the community that had gathered to celebrate. Reflecting on her life milestones, Lorna shared a lighthearted moment with the audience.
“This week is our 57th wedding anniversary. I don’t know, Claro, how you managed to deal with that for 57 years,” she joked, to which the crowd responded with affectionate laughter. Claro, beaming with pride, could be heard echoing his appreciation in the background.
Lorna’s writing journey, which began a decade ago, has been profoundly shaped by her life experiences, especially a near-death encounter that deeply impacted her perspective and creativity.
Over the years, she has written several personal books, including “My Innermost Thoughts: The Realities of Life”, “My Passion, My Calling”, “Moments of Love, Lust and Ecstasy” and her latest release, “My Heart & Soul.” While these works are written in an easy-to-read, yet thoughtful narrative, they delve into themes of love, resilience, and the complexities of human emotion, resonating with readers who appreciate her sincerity and warmth.
When explaining the inspiration behind her writing, Lorna acknowledged the emotional depth that fuels her imagination.
“I am a romantic person, sentimental, and very sensitive,” she shared, noting that these traits have greatly shaped her newest book. She described “My Heart & Soul” as “the accumulation of all my previous works,” highlighting its central focus on love, kindness, and empathy.
Her books, available on Amazon and her website, lornasbook.com, offer thoughtful insights into life and love. Alongside her writing, Lorna has been a regular contributor to The Philippine Times, where she shares wisdom influenced by her experiences as a migrant, mother, and woman of faith.
As she concluded her speech, Lorna shared a message that encapsulated the heart of her work.
“When there is love, kindness will always follow. When there is kindness, forgiveness is always there. If you practice these three virtues, you will have peace in your soul,” she said, offering the audience a simple, yet powerful reminder of the virtues she holds dear.
As she celebrates these remarkable milestones, Lorna continues to inspire those around her with the simplicity and sincerity of her work. Her legacy as a writer, wife, mother, and community contributor is marked by a profound sense of reflection, understanding, and compassion—qualities that have shaped both her storytelling and the way she lives her life.Lorna’s contributions to the Filipino-Australian community in Melbourne remain invaluable, and her books serve as an inspiration for others navigating life’s challenges with grace and wisdom.
View photos on Philtimes Facebook Page
Photos by George Gregorio
