Evangelyn G. Nery has been living with chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML) since her diagnosis on 11 August 2015. Now 44, she continues to undergo oral chemotherapy and regular medical monitoring. Her journey has taught her that living with leukemia means facing not only the challenges of treatment but also the financial difficulties and uncertainties that come with a long-term illness. For Evangelyn and her partner, Gregorio, the journey has required difficult family sacrific

ALL TOGETHER NOW! EPCALM-serviced patients, EPCALM Board, and Office Staff gather for a photo to document the Family Huddle, as the Foundation continues to foster a supportive, family-centered community where patients are reminded that they are valued, cared for, and never alone in their journey. The EPCALM Foundation brought together its serviced patients for a Family Huddle on 31 October 2026 at The EPCALM House, providing a meaningful day of fellowship, entertainment, pray

Susana T. Fabro: Her leukemia journey continues with faith stronger than fear. Patient Stories Series (No. 56) On 13 February 2023, Susana T. Fabro was rushed to the hospital in critical condition. She was in excruciating pain, weak and struggling to hold on. As her husband and four children pleaded with her to stay awake and fight, Susana prayed for a sign from God—if she makes it to the hospital in time and recovered, she would take it as a sign that God still had a purpose

His persistent weakness and other health concerns eventually led to a diagnosis of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). Reynan Q. Cañelas, 26, had to face physical and emotional challenges each day with fearless faith Reynan’s journey taught us that a person’s strength is not measured only by the outcome of an illness, but by the courage with which the journey is faced. His experience also taught the importance of love, companionship, and accepting support during difficult t

Joey Peralta with his parents and youngest son: Looking toward the future with greater confidence, resilience, faith, and hope. Patient Stories Series (No. 55) When Joey T. Peralta, 43, was diagnosed with chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML) in March 2019, he never imagined that an illness would change the course of his life. A hardworking father of four, Joey had spent years taking on contractual jobs in the cleaning industry to provide for his family. The long hours and frequ

The EPCALM Foundation has been named a beneficiary of a Charity Gala organized by KAMAY Foundation International (KFI), a nonprofit public benefit corporation registered in California, USA. The Waves of Elegance Fashion Show for a Cause is scheduled for 25 October 2026, at Dominic’s SF in San Francisco, California. The fashion show will showcase the latest creations of celebrity designers Ritchie Teves and Joseph Palma, with performances by U.S.-homegrown talents Prince, Lani

At 31, Anjenatte G. Caño never imagined that the ordinary responsibilities she once carried as a wife and mother would one day become difficult challenges. Persistent back pain, fever, flu-like symptoms, weight loss, and increasing weakness eventually led to her diagnosis of chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML) on 21 January 2026. The illness brought physical pain, emotional uncertainty, and financial pressures, sometimes leaving her unable to walk or even complete simple hous

Norman and Anne Balitayo: A beautiful reminder that faith can sustain us, and love can strengthen us. Patient Stories Series (No. 54) When Norman P. Balitayo was diagnosed with chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML) in December 2008, he was working as a store merchandiser and building a future with his school sweetheart, Anne. The diagnosis came as a devastating shock. Overwhelmed by fear and uncertainty, Norman initially believed that his illness meant he could no longer have a

After more than two months of persistent fever and red spots on her body, Jessieca A. Macam, 25, was diagnosed with acute myelogenous leukemia (AML)—and soon learned that she was also two months pregnant. Suddenly, she was fighting not only for her own life, but also for the child growing inside her. Chemotherapy, blood transfusions, hospitalizations, and the possibility of a bone marrow transplant that was beyond the family's means became part of her difficult journey. Yet

Healing takes many forms. Beyond medicines, medical procedures, and clinical care, creative expression can offer moments of comfort, joy, and renewed hope to people facing the challenges of illness. Recognizing the value of holistic care, the EPCALM Foundation partnered with the Fernando C. Amorsolo Art Foundation, Inc. (FCAAFI) to conduct an Acrylic Painting for Beginners Workshop on 10 October 2026 at The EPCALM House in New Manila, Quezon City. Designed for EPCALM-service

Evangelyn G. Nery: Hoping for more accessible cancer care closer to home. Patient Stories Series (No. 53) Evangelyn G. Nery has been living with chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML) since her diagnosis on 11 August 2015. She continues to undergo oral chemotherapy and requires regular laboratory tests and medical monitoring—essential components of managing her condition but also a significant financial burden. For Evangelyn, now at 44, the challenges of leukemia extend beyond t

Christopher G. Biñas was a husband, father, provider, and hardworking Filipino who spent much of his life building a better future for his family. When he was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) on 9 May 2026, he and his family faced yet another difficult chapter. Yet Christopher's journey also showed the strength that can be found in family, faith, and the determination to keep going. His wife and children remained by his side, supporting him through the chall

Understanding how patients can access available healthcare benefits is an important part of advancing equitable and compassionate care. For EPCALM Foundation, this means not only providing direct support to adult leukemia patients and their families, but also staying informed about government health programs and resources that can help ease the financial burden of illness. EPCALM participated in an online learning session on 29 Sept. 2026 organized by the Association of Found

For two Philippine Marines, donating blood is more than a personal act—it is a simple but meaningful way of helping save lives. Both Master Sergeant (MSgt) Roy J. Delima and Private First Class (PFC) Alvin Dianosta were among the volunteers who rolled up their sleeves and donated blood during the EPCALM Voluntary Blood Donation Drive held on 28 September 2026 at the Philippine Marine Corps in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City. The blood drive was conducted as part of the Health an

The Voluntary Blood Donation Drive of the EPCALM Foundation highlighted the Health and Wellness Fair of the Philippine Marine Corps Supply Center (PMCSC) held yesterday, 28 September 2026, as part of the PMCSC’s 7th Activation Anniversary celebration. Held at the PMC SNCO Clubhouse, Marine Barracks Rudiardo Brown, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City, the Fair brought together PMC officers and enlisted personnel, civilian personnel, and partner organizations in an activity that celebr

In a strong demonstration of partnership and shared commitment to patients with blood cancers and other serious illnesses, the Department of Medicine of St. Luke’s Medical Center–Global City (SLMC-GC) and the EPCALM Foundation successfully conducted “Pulse Protocol,” a special voluntary blood donation drive on 14 September 2026. Held at the Conference Rooms 1–4, 5th Floor of SLMC-GC in Taguig City, the bloodletting activity was organized to celebrate “Medicine Week” and in ob

Yesterday, 21 September 2026, we gathered at Sta. Elena Golf and Country Club in Santa Rosa City, Laguna for the 2nd EPCALM Swing for Hope Invitational Golf Tournament—a day filled with fellowship, camaraderie, and a shared commitment to a meaningful cause. We were once again reminded of God’s continued favor and sustaining grace upon EPCALM. Despite the uncertainty of the days leading up to the tournament, He cleared the skies and blessed us with beautiful weather for a wond

Reynan in his hospital bed, with his partner and father by his side: facing each new challenge with courage and determination. Patient Stories Series (No. 52) At just 26, Reynan Q. Cañelas never imagined that life would take him on a journey he had never expected. A Criminology graduate and former Lalamove delivery rider, Reynan worked long hours to support himself and help provide for his family. But when persistent weakness and other health concerns led him to seek medical

For the EPCALM Foundation, strengthening the protection and dignity of the patients it serves goes beyond providing medical and financial assistance. It also means ensuring that sensitive patient information is handled responsibly. This is one reason the Foundation participated in a Webinar hosted by the DSWD-facilitated Area-Based Standards Network (ABSNet) on 10 September 2026. The webinar, themed “A Practical Privacy Conversation for NGOs in the Philippines,” carried the t

Anjenatte: Navigating the challenges of living with leukemia. Patient Stories Series (No. 51) Anjenatte G. Caño is devoted to her family, especially her husband, Carl Vincent, and their two young daughters, Francent and Jascent. Like many mothers, much of her life revolved around caring for her children and keeping their home. She never imagined that an illness would one day make even the simplest of these responsibilities a struggle. It began with symptoms that seemed ordina

On the occasion of Blood Cancer Awareness Month, the Department of Health (DOH) has highlighted that approximately 33 Filipinos are diagnosed with blood cancer every day, with nearly 60 per cent of cases detected at advanced stages, often because patients seek medical attention only when symptoms have become more serious. Early consultation can make a difference. If you experience persistent or recurring fever, swollen lymph nodes, unexplained bruising or bleeding, unusual fa

The EPCALM Adult Leukemia Foundation of the Philippines joined fellow members of the Blood Cancer Alliance of the Philippines (BCAP) yesterday in supporting its partner organization, the Philippine College of Hematology and Transfusion Medicine (PCHTM), during the opening of its 7th Annual Convention, being held from 6 to 9 September at the Edsa Shangri-La Manila. Held in observance of Blood Cancer Awareness Month, pursuant to Proclamation No. 1833, the convention brings toge

Jessieca Macam and her “miracle” baby, Janella Dwaine, with hematologist, Dr. Anne Valeriano – A reminder that even in the darkest chapters, there can be reasons to keep looking forward Patient Stories Series (No. 50) At 25, Jessieca A. Macam never imagined that she would have to fight leukemia while carrying a new life inside her. Jessieca lives in Novaliches, Quezon City, with her partner, John Plarao, and their eight-year-old son, John David. Her life changed dramatically

There are few words that can change the course of a life as quickly as: “You have leukemia.” Alvin Uy knows this firsthand. In 2023, Alvin was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia (AML)—a diagnosis that immediately changed the way he looked at time, family, work, and even something as ordinary as a blood test. What followed was a grueling period of treatment and months of confinement. Chemotherapy, radiation, blood and platelet transfusions, uncertainty, and physical exhaust