Can This Disabled American Save Himself in the Philippines? 🇺🇸

In this candid and heartfelt interview, Mark shares his journey of leaving the United States to start a new chapter in the Philippines. Battling a disabling condition, financial struggles, and the growing challenges of living in the U.S., Mark found himself searching for a more affordable, accessible, and fulfilling way of life.
From dealing with extreme heatwaves in Washington to navigating the difficulties of in-home care on a fixed income, Mark discusses why he decided to research popular expat destinations. He shares how he settled on the Philippines for its low cost of living, English-friendly culture, and warm climate that eased my physical challenges.
He also recounts his early experiences, including the ups and downs of meeting people online, adjusting to a new way of life in Dumaguete, and overcoming challenges like scams, language barriers, and homesickness. Despite initial setbacks, he's found a sense of community, better mobility, and a quality of life he never thought possible.
If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to leave everything behind and move abroad, or if you’re curious about the expat lifestyle in the Philippines, this video offers a raw and honest perspective.
📌 Topics Covered:
Challenges of living with a disability in the U.S.
Choosing the Philippines as an expat destination
First impressions of Manila and transitioning to Dumaguete
Adapting to a new culture, transportation, and community
Overcoming homesickness and finding purpose
👉 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more stories on expat life and navigating new opportunities abroad.
#ExpatLife #Philippines #MovingAbroad #DisabilityJourney #Dumaguete
For Business Inquires: [e-mail]
Join this channel to get access to perks:
/ @easterndreamer615
Join Alex Living Abroad's free discord server: / discord
BTC Donation Address: 3EykfkrZtCVFBKjGeZo791BYHNcHzdBAN8
Coinbase Referral Link: coinbase.com/j...
If you like this video, subscribe to the channel for more content like this.
You can help support the channel's growth: www.buymeacoff...

[@johncaro2485]

I moved to the Philippines in 2023. I am in a wheelchair. I brought a small home for my wife in 1992. We thought we would never need it. I am on social security and have a small pension. We love it here.❤

[@teresabaltazar3710]

You are lucky if you’re wife is a pilipina She is not gold DEGGER 🤣

[@theswede5402]

Did you buy a home in PH back in 92 already?

[@merrileeleonard6372]

Snippet: We all have to do some maneuvering in life. Good to hear you've found yours and family in PH -- It's just as good as any. Have you seen some affordable housing in Sta. Rosa, Laguna? be blessed. jan2025

[@inuhyasha2662]

I'm happy for you sir welcome to Philippines

[@MabelTolomia]

Thanx for ur story God bless

[@annalisagomes2743]

What a nice interview. A one-of-a-kind foreigner who persevered and found peace of mind in a different country he now calls home. Thank you!

[@EasternDreamer615]

Thank you for your kind words. I'm glad you enjoyed the video Annalisa :)

[@markmitera4521]

Thank you

[@Rina-nv5qu]

This is awesome interview, praying for your fast recovery and healing Sir Mark ✨ prayers goes also to my fellow Filipino to continue being a good people, compassionate, generous and thoughtful 🙏 Mabuhay po🎉

[@EasternDreamer615]

Thank you Rina :)

[@eugenebalaoro620]

Thank you sir for liking the Philippines you chose to live in despite of your condition. You are welcome live with us Pilipinos we love you. Keep safe and stay healthy always. God bless!

[@EasternDreamer615]

Thank you Eugene :)

[@markmitera4521]

Thank you.

[@tracymorgan5386]

Maybe Mark could get a physical therapist to come once or twice a week to help with exercises and balance. That’s what’s great about moving to the Philippines getting a helper and/or physical therapist is so affordable. Considering what happened previously, I would wait before getting into another relationship and just focus on himself for awhile.

[@markmitera4521]

I completely agree.

[@janeanson2056]

Mark doesnt need a wife to take care of him. He can always find a caretaker in the Philippines so he can enjoy his pension living in the Philippines. Goodluck MARK and always take care of

[@markmitera4521]

Thank you and I agree.

[@midlifewanderings]

My husband and I retired here in the Philippines since June 2024 and we are loving it. You're right Mark, your dollar goes a long way here. We could not afford to live comfortably even with both our SS checks in the States. We have more in our savings living here than when we were in the States.

[@EasternDreamer615]

It’s so great to hear you are enjoying your retirement here! :)

[@susanaldawood5480]

Praying for your fast recovery Mark,more blessings too.God bless you!

[@EasternDreamer615]

Thank you :)

[@elizabethtank1123]

Welcome to Philippines sir, I will pray for your healing from your sickness and also for your safety in the Philippines God Bless you and take care.

[@EasternDreamer615]

Thank you :)

[@markmitera4521]

Thank you.

[@elizabethtank1123]

@markmitera4521 Your Welcome 🙏.

[@akololomo4021]

Great story!! And awesome info for all disabled ppl .. thank you.

[@EasternDreamer615]

Thank you for watching! :)

[@markmitera4521]

Thank you.

[@canadianguy37]

Way to change your future Mark! Its good to take charge of your trajectory. Much love from 🇨🇦

[@EasternDreamer615]

Thanks so much :)

[@markmitera4521]

Thank you

[@geofffletcher2539]

You are a brave man.with your disability and health conditions. Plus your limited ss income..well done..GodBless.

[@EasternDreamer615]

Thank you for your kind words and support. 🙏

[@markmitera4521]

Thank you

[@zenaidahunt1848]

I believe you made the right decision Sir. You will get better.

[@EasternDreamer615]

Thank you :)

[@bridgetchrista]

Welcome to Phlippines!! Bless you!

[@EasternDreamer615]

Thank you Bridget :)

[@markmitera4521]

Thank you.

[@martinm835]

One man's journey, respect

[@EasternDreamer615]

Thank you Martin :)

[@markmitera4521]

Thank you.

[@tonywalton1052]

Bless him. If only we were all this brave.

[@EasternDreamer615]

I agree :)

[@markmitera4521]

Thank you!

[@ronaldgordon2374]

Thank you!

[@EasternDreamer615]

Thank you Ronald :)

[@wrafl]

That is true, I was 50 when I was laidoff plus I had a condition that took me away from my daily work schedule due to doctors appointment. I had difgficulty finding employment so I just took myslf off the job market and filed for disabikity which ss denied. Luckiy for me I was a veteran and the va gave me disablity. Im now 72 nd collect ss as well as va compensation but its till not enough for me to live comfortably. So Im headed to Philippines in April. Thats the go to place.

[@RowVelina-fi7kb]

More for your bucks($) it's not perfect but you in the most home fealt & friendly (w/a smile), joyful humble hearted people. 👪💕🇵🇭🏝️

[@EasternDreamer615]

I hope your transition to the Philippines goes well, thank you for sharing your experience.

[@FlaGrown1955]

Look up this guy and tell us your story. I am thinking of this too.

[@akololomo4021]

Smart move, brudah, and good luck.

[@dorismay8383]

Mr. Mark should sought a therapist,have early morning sunshine on his back evry other day,swim and a bit of exercise for his physical wellness. Take care mr. Mark.

[@markmitera4521]

Thank you.

[@MN12warbird]

I don't tell ppl this, but ive lived with my mental disabilities since before my interview with you. I just ended up receiving my ssi disability early. (Years before the interview) Your guests interview comments are completely right about what he said about trying to find a job at 40s. This is my issue right now. I make enough for me to live but if i want to have a family i cant support their education

[@unieunie7050]

What he's looking for is a good quality of life & the longer he stays in Duma will hopefully meet his expectation.He is not a burden in PI, Filipinos in general love's to help a fellow human being.Feel free to ask for assistance anywhere & anytime.

[@EasternDreamer615]

I agree :)

[@martinm835]

Mark good luck all the best

[@markmitera4521]

Thank you.

[@barryinthepi390]

Good interview Alex. I do wish him well with his life here. I do have a 40% Disability rating with the VA and I do get around pretty well, just no more miles long hikes in the mountains. Glad he is loving it here like we all do.

[@EasternDreamer615]

Thank you for your service Barry

[@belovedalicevasquez5522]

God bless you, Mark! Thank God for you, Alex for sharing his story. 🙏💖🇵🇭

[@EasternDreamer615]

Thank you so much for your kind words Alice! 🙏

[@markmitera4521]

Thank you

[@LetsDoThePhilippines]

Bless his heart. Thanks for sharing his story with us, Alex.

[@EasternDreamer615]

Thank you for your kind words Michael :)

[@limtseho3540]

Good job guys, this was an excellent interview 😊👏👏

[@EasternDreamer615]

Glad you enjoyed it! :)

[@markmitera4521]

Thank you!

[@rosebir7529]

i sincerely hope you'll feel LOVED her Sir. God bless you

[@EasternDreamer615]

Thank you Rose :)

[@markmitera4521]

Thank you

[@DarleneGeromiano-yl5ox]

Take care sir ❤❤❤we love you from Philippines

[@EasternDreamer615]

Thank you Darlene :)

[@markmitera4521]

Thank you

[@mikesphilippineretirement]

great job guys

[@EasternDreamer615]

Thank you Mike :)

[@markmitera4521]

Thanks Mike!

[@fenderbend3r]

Thnx Alex. Praying here for Mark and someday hoping to be able to do something for him.

[@EasternDreamer615]

Thank you fender :)

[@markmitera4521]

Thank you!

[@JulieAblan-qp7nn]

Please give us an update of Mark

[@markmitera4521]

This was only 3 days ago. Update: still the same 😁

[@tinotino9952]

Great interview!!!! best of luck Mark.

[@EasternDreamer615]

Thank you Tino :)

[@markmitera4521]

Thank you!

[@loveroadtrips9037]

new subs from PH ❤

[@EasternDreamer615]

Thank you for subscribing! ❤

[@Gerrybear-r7h]

More power to you! What i will do, is to hire a day help who can cook for you, wash your clothes, do house errands, clean the house, but before you hire, you need to do the following steps. 1. That lady should obtain a barrangay clearance ( from her hometown) stating her community standing,make sure she has no prior run in with the law and has to state her marital status and # of children. 2. NBI CLEARANCE , very important 3. Cidula . 4. Photos DO NOT GIVE HER THE KEYS TO THE HOUSE EVER!!!! All of the above will somewhat give you the idea what kind of person you are dealing with especially. However, during your current situation having no help you can do the following.....As far as food, you might ask the restaurant near you to cook your food per your specifications. As to your laundry, you can ask one of those trikes ( you like and trusted) to take and pick up your clothes from the laundrymat. Ask for receipt. Normally they charge 160 pesos for 10 kls. Try to pay your driver 150 pesos for the whole transaction. This driver can be your personal friend, you can ask him to buy some medicine or anything you will need like bread, veggies and meat. Good luck and God bless you.

[@markmitera4521]

The place I am staying has laundry service. 150 peso/10kg. I eat breakfast here. Have a meal of sandwiches or instant noodles in my unit and one meal at Krispy King which is right out front or at one of the other local places close by.

[@FlaGrown1955]

What a kind thing to share and good advice for all.

[@ferdinandamodo9456]

There’s a lot of good Christian woman willing to help and take care of you in the Philippines.

[@EasternDreamer615]

I agree :)

[@leoniecubil3708]

I strongly disagree….We Filipinos love all kinds of people not just Americans… We are not selective of any race… we love our Filipino neighbors , koreans, indians, japanese,etc… we love everybody because our parents ( &Faith) taught us to “love one another” because God is in each and everyone of us and we are created in His image and likeness

[@markmitera4521]

What do you disagree about?

[@Happygirl-4-09b]

Mark,start channel.... vlog about your daily life... show us around also you could talk about something you are passionate about... also look up Mary the explorer...her husband is physically challenged also an American.

[@EasternDreamer615]

That’s a great idea, thank you!

[@markmitera4521]

Even though I am willing to do these interviews, I still value my privacy. I'm willing to find something part time to do, but doing KZbin is a full time plus job if you want to be monetized. Plus purchasing video equipment is not in my budget currently. I do not have a nice phone with a good camera.

[@Happygirl-4-09b]

@markmitera4521 ❤️

[@markmitera4521]

@ Thank you!

[@melisamendoza651]

The people in the philippines will invite you on any special occasion because we dont want to see Anybody alone specially on christmas and new yr.

[@EasternDreamer615]

Thank you Melisa :)

[@tombkk1322]

Great interview. Good guy.

[@EasternDreamer615]

Thank you Tom :)

[@markmitera4521]

Thank you!

[@dindocrisostomo4922]

Just subscribed👍

[@EasternDreamer615]

Thank you :)

[@dktlnn]

I am widowed. I can take care of you...

[@Badger345]

Great story

[@EasternDreamer615]

Glad you enjoyed it :)

[@nunyabiznes33]

Agreed with everyone here, go hire a therapist. They should be affordable enough for him

[@dinovillamor7166]

I like

[@EasternDreamer615]

Thank you Dino :)

[@ChampOleb]

Filipino people are very caring, I don’t think Mark will find it hard to find someone who will take good care of him, whether as a partner or a care giver.

[@EasternDreamer615]

I agree :)

[@markmitera4521]

Crossing my fingers. 😁🤞

[@MangoKashInThePhilippines]

2 strokes, Auto Immune Disease, blind in left eye, 30% use of left hand and arm, Crohn’s disease, I do just fine here👍 having a disability is not a reason not to live abroad no matter where you live you will still have your disability it’s all in your will power to adapt to a new culture and country with your disabilities 😎

[@markmitera4521]

Completely agree.

[@life2shorty]

Question for Mark. I thought people on social security disability can only leave the USA for 30 days at a time? Thank you for sharing your story and wishing you all the best!

[@EasternDreamer615]

Thank you for your well wishes, I hope you enjoyed the video! :)

[@markmitera4521]

You are only restricted to the 30 days if you are only receiving SSI, social security supplemental income for those in financial need or if you have not worked enough to earn the "work credits" needed. I worked for many years and had the work credits to qualify to receive my SSDI while living in an approved country.

[@life2shorty]

@@markmitera4521 thank you 🙏🏻

[@WolfgangRockafalla-6]

Only when you are on SSI you have to abide by the 30-day rule... although there are folks still living abroad with SSI, you simple have to keep it discreet and to yourself, because social security does not check on your travels; the only disadvantage being on SSI you have to go through recertification every year/year and a half approximately...so if you are overseas , you will have to have someone in the States collect your mail and let you know when you have a social security appointment for your SSI interview...but remember, discretion is the key; no one but you and a trusted person should know you are living overseas while on SSI..

[@blindjustice7379]

All of these stories about these Americans moving to PH are all nice but when you really think about it, Capitalism in the US is pushing its own citizens away because they've failed them. I wish Mark all the best and hopefully you can interview him again after he's been here for a year.

[@markmitera4521]

Thank you and I agree

[@josefinacordero6112]

I hope you will be safe here. Just be careful with some people who are too friendly and do not share about your finances because most people here look at foreigners as having much money. If you are looking for Filipina wife, don't rush in getting married. Most women here look at the pocket not onlove.

[@EasternDreamer615]

Thank you Josefina :)

[@CandidoMacabulos]

Hopefully, your SSA pension will stay as it is. As you know, there's a new administration, if you reading the news lately here in the US about SSA recipient, it was concerning. There's a plan that new administration will make a big changes on Social Security and hopefully for the good. That amount pension your receiving right now, you'll able to survive and also, it depends on your lifestyle.

[@markmitera4521]

If the new administration has its way, ss and disability will disappear. I am watching the news like a hawk right now.

[@golftrekker]

I would be interested in knowing how a person qualifies to draw social security disability while living outside the US. I have a friend who wants to move from the US to the Philippines but has been told he would lose his disability if he relocated to another country.

[@JohnSmith-ti2kp]

@golftrekker- It doesn't matter what someone told him, it is allowed per the online S.S. website. Best though is not to tell them and just receive the money thru a U.S. bank or credit union. That way one is saved the hassle of yearly filling out, notarizing and mailing a proof of life to S.S., now what is true and may have been what your friend was told was that he would not be able to use Medicare outside the U.S., but it clearly states that as a U.S. citizen one can live anywhere in the world they want and still receive the benefit they paid into, but with Medicare one has to return to the country to use it.

[@wrafl]

That is not true. Many disabled veterans chose to live in the Philippines because their pension wont sustain them if living in the US. No need to tell them as long as your ss check is direct deposit to your bank in the US. Dont let your direct deposit go to a philippine bank ever

[@chuck9112]

No you can't get supplemental outside of the US SSI, but regular social security disability you can. I do and I live here

[@angelocalima6338]

Pray to God that the Medicare Affordability Act will be approved in the Philippines 🇵🇭.

[@chuck9112]

@golftrekker there are 2 kinds of disability. #1 SSI This is suplimental, and you can't be outside of the US. Regular Social Security Disability you can. Just Google it, the difference between the two types. 👍

[@protegelin]

In Philippines especially in the province if you have a medical emergency, pray to God, good luck to you.

[@1100_Rebels_PH]

If everything is so much better in the US, why do guys like Mark come here? Do they have a death wish by doing so? As far as I understood him in his interview, life in the US is a permanent emergency. More reason to pray to God or come to PH. Or both...

[@protegelin]

@1100_Rebels_PH USA empire is in a state of decline so a lot of expats with marginal social security chose the bad out of the worst choices they have left. It's an uplift for them to retire in Philippines based on their available means. What other choice do they have?

[@1100_Rebels_PH]

@@protegelin Good question - what other choice do they have? You seem to know, don't you? If not PH, what do you propose? Ukraine 🤣? I think that PH is not such a bad decision. I live here for the past 33 years. And I left a high paid job as a scientist in the pharma industry. If PH is so bad, why did I never ever regret my decision from 33 years ago? As a scientist I embrace strong analytical thinking. If I analyse my decision from 33 years ago, I come to the conclusion, that I would do it again... Oops. I am not American btw.

[@markmitera4521]

No treatments or cure for my condition. If I have a major medical issue, I'm as good as gone anyway. If I was back in the US, they might be able to save my life, but life probably wouldn't be worth living afterward.

[@Star-j51165]

Wrong.millions of pinoy living in the province,dont have prob about it.just know how to take care of yourself,in besides there are hospitals out there

[@conchitamackay2831]

Welcome to our Country Sir,enjoy your retirement here ,and please try to visit our Church of worship ,to uplift your Spiritual needs,which is the most important ,im an Iglesia ni Christo or Church of Christ member we have several Church every where ,try to attain our worshipservice Sir,thank you

[@EasternDreamer615]

Thank you so much for the welcome! :)

[@Littleroundhousesrq]

Good man. He needs western healthcare. Wise up good man. Much respect.

[@markmitera4521]

Western medicine failed me. There is no cure or treatment for my disease, nor is there anyone doing any meaningful research on my disease. It only affects 0.006% of the population worldwide so there is no profit in treating it.

[@neoudi2024]

Lots of homelessness and illegal drug use in the US. 😢

[@EasternDreamer615]

It's so sad :(

[@Jonases_20]

new sub here

[@EasternDreamer615]

Thank you for subscribing! :)

[@Jonases_20]

@ yw hun 😘

[@saintluke2nd]

I have a rare neurological condition also, I wonder what his is. Did he tell you?

[@leoniecubil3708]

Looks MS

[@markmitera4521]

It is similar to MS, but more closely to ALS. It is called HSP, hereditary spastic paraparesis. Mostly affects legs, but I have the complex form which affects the whole body.

[@MetalGearMk3]

Mark, do see a doctor and get your vitamin D levels checked, good chances its dangerously low and you'll need to supplement it.

[@EasternDreamer615]

Thank you for the tip MetalGear

[@markmitera4521]

Did that before coming here. Vit D level is fine and I do take supplements. Thanks for the advice.

[@Jammer411]

Roofers and lifeguards that work all day in the Summer in America get @ 50,000 iu of Vitamin D and you pee out the excess.

[@fuzznakano]

She robbed you?? Please explain.

[@EasternDreamer615]

He talks about it in his interview with Filipina Pea if you’d like to check it out

[@fuzznakano]

@@EasternDreamer615 thank you. I will check that out. Good luck with your channel. You are doing well. Mjr Tokyo

[@EasternDreamer615]

@ Thank you so much :)

[@markmitera4521]

She took my money and left while I was sleeping.

[@fuzznakano]

@@markmitera4521 Thanks, Mark. I'm sorry to hear that but it looks like you are doing pretty well now. All the best to you. Mike Tokyo

[@Johnny-ql2vd]

As a retired (disabled) U.S. Air Force veteran, that was stationed at Clark , AB for 3 years back in the day. Have visited the P.I. long term twice in the past 24 months. Always a great time. This Cat is obviously /completely out of his comfort zone . Please return to the U.S. ASAP Sir and not burden the locals …. Peace ✌️

[@Johnny-ql2vd]

Good interview ED ….

[@EasternDreamer615]

Thank you for your service Johnny

[@boat6868]

Every man has a story always mentioned teaching English using the cambly website.

[@EasternDreamer615]

That’s a great observation, thank you!

[@rogerclark3]

I suggest finding a great provincial Filipina your age approx. get married and get your butt back to small town southern USA. It's actually cheaper over here. She can easily get a good job and eventually obtain her own US benifits... Good luck...

[@markmitera4521]

The southern US just had a major freezing event. Thanks to Trumps mass deportation policy, many Filipino people are getting arrested. No thank you.

[@FlaGrown1955]

I do not think he can afford it.

[@leoniecubil3708]

I am Filipino and a US health provider… I think you’re good in Dumaguete

[@simplysocial7383]

Thanks you for telling the truth on what is going on.

[@EasternDreamer615]

Thank you for watching :)

[@markmitera4521]

Thank you for watching

[@simplysocial7383]

In Texas a small apartment it $1200 a month and going up.

[@EasternDreamer615]

That’s crazy!

[@Galvin-j7u]

In the Bay Area (San Jose, CA) a two bedroom apartment is almost $4000 a month. That does not include your living expenses such as car, food, utilities, etc.