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Latest Blog Entries


PATIENT JOURNALS Lessons Learned Series - No. 48
Riza M. Padronzulan, 39, has faced an extraordinary medical journey. Diagnosed with myelodysplastic syndrome in 2017 after returning from Singapore, she has endured numerous health complications, multiple hospitalizations, and nearly a decade of monthly blood transfusions. Through every trial, Riza has remained steadfast in her faith. She credits God's sustaining grace, the unwavering support of her husband, her healthcare team, and the generosity of countless blood donors fo

EPCALM
Aug 27


PATIENT JOURNALS Lessons Learned Series - No. 47
At 34, Ricjosef D. Buenos Aires, an Accountancy graduate from Cardona, Rizal, was building a promising career when he was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) in January 2026. The diagnosis came as a devastating shock, but with the unwavering support of his family, friends, and even strangers, he found the strength to face his journey with hope and courage. Ricjosef endured 28 days of chemotherapy, multiple hospitalizations, and numerous medical procedures. Along the w

EPCALM
Aug 20


PATIENT JOURNALS Lessons Learned Series - No. 46
Reycah Ezekiel B. Pablo, 24, a Dean's Lister in Civil Engineering at the University of Makati, put his studies and his passion for music on hold after being diagnosed with acute lymphocytic leukemia in October 2024. Guided by his faith and supported by his family, he continues to fight with courage, holding on to his dream of becoming a licensed Civil Engineer and returning to the music he loves. Today, Reycah and his family are seeking financial assistance for his bone marr

EPCALM
Aug 13


PATIENT JOURNALS Lessons Learned Series - No. 45
In 2013, George C. Lee-Chuy was diagnosed with acute myelogenous leukemia. Like many families, they initially feared the worst. Today, however, George is cancer-free and has remained in remission for more than 10 years—a powerful testament to hope and perseverance. George's journey was anything but easy. He underwent eight rounds of chemotherapy, countless blood transfusions, and battled serious complications, including sepsis and shingles. Through it all, his family stood by

EPCALM
Aug 6


PATIENT JOURNALS Lessons Learned Series - No. 44
Despite her leukemia diagnosis, Margie P. Villafuerte discovered she was pregnant in March 2023. While medical advisories often caution against pregnancy for female leukemia patients, Margie chose to move forward with courage.Throughout her pregnancy, she sought support from the EPCALM Foundation to navigate her health concerns, and ensure a safe delivery. In December 2023, Margie welcomed a healthy baby girl named Mhira Claire—a name chosen to honor the miraculous nature of

EPCALM
Jul 9


PATIENT JOURNALS Lessons Learned Series - No. 43
This is the enduring story of Merlita B. Macalino, a 34-year-old mother of two from Macabebe, Pampanga, who has been battling chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML) since January 2021. Despite the challenges of her diagnosis, Merlita has faced her illness with remarkable resilience and determination.Throughout her journey, Merlita’s family has been her anchor. Her husband, John Phillip, and their children provide constant emotional support, while her sister, Mary Rose, and other

EPCALM
Jul 2


PATIENT JOURNALS Lessons Learned Series - No. 42
Hope is a fundamental human experience that serves as a powerful motivator, enabling individuals to overcome challenges, and aspire for a better future. Here is an inspirational story of hope. Shella May A. Lopera, 23, is from Norzagaray, Bulacan. She is currently navigating life with chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML). Diagnosed at 18, Shella May has faced numerous challenges, including financial constraints. Despite her circumstances, she remains a source of joy and streng

EPCALM
Jun 25


PATIENT JOURNALS Lessons Learned Series - No. 41
Marlene A. Laylo is a 67-year-old long-time patient of the EPCALM Foundation. Diagnosed with chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML) in October 2014 and initially given only three years to live, Marlene continues to thrive today through God’s grace and the exceptional support of her family.Residing in Batangas, Marlene travels quarterly to the Veterans Memorial Medical Center (VMMC) in Quezon City for medical consultations and blood tests, which consistently show positive results.

EPCALM
Jun 18


PATIENT JOURNALS Lessons Learned Series - No. 40
The leukemia journey of Ernesto P. Laxamana, 70, from Angeles City, Pampanga, is a testament to resilience and the power of family support. Originally from Concepcion, Tarlac, Ernesto established a life for his family through his dedicated work as a tailor in Dau, Pampanga.His life took an unexpected turn following a diagnosis of chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML). However, supported by his wife, Resie, and their children, Ernesto transitioned from a period of struggle to on

EPCALM
Jun 11


PATIENT JOURNALS Lessons Learned Series - No. 39
This is the inspiring story of Edrelino "Ehd" R. Garcia, a 59-year-old former police officer from Imus, Cavite. In 2011, while enjoying retirement with his wife, Geneve, Ehd was diagnosed with chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML). Despite this diagnosis, Ehd remained undeterred, navigating this chapter of his life with the same dedication he applied to his decades of police service. Throughout his health challenges, he has remained a pillar of strength for his family. As a deep

EPCALM
Jun 4


PATIENT JOURNALS Lessons Learned Series - No. 38
This is the inspiring story of Nico S. Ugay, 28, from Las Piñas City, who was diagnosed with B-Cell Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia (ALL) in March 2016. After five years of rigorous treatment at the Philippine General Hospital, including chemotherapy and blood transfusions, Nico was declared in full remission in 2021. As of 13 March 2026, Nico has been declared cancer-free. Nico attributes his recovery to God’s grace mercy, a disciplined lifestyle, and the unwavering support of

EPCALM
May 7


PATIENT JOURNALS Lessons Learned Series - No. 37
Camello DLC Raagas , 33, is a father who has been battling chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) since 2018. Due to his condition, Camello lost his stable employment and now relies on intermittent encoding projects, leaving him unable to afford four of his five required medications. Following a critical hospitalization in August 2023, Camello is currently undergoing four chemotherapy sessions and requires a new medication, Dasatinib. Despite these hardships and a lifelong history o

EPCALM
Apr 30


PATIENT JOURNALS Lessons Learned Series - No. 36
This is the leukemia story of Rolly B. Franco , a 34-year-old from Pampanga diagnosed with Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia (CML) in 2018. Following years of treatment and a BCR-ABL test (Breakpoint Cluster Region-Abelson Murine Leukemia) in October 2024, Rolly’s journey stands as a testament to faith and resilience. Rolly credits his progress to the support of his family, government programs, and organizations like EPCALM. Guided by his mother’s advice to focus on life rather th

EPCALM
Apr 23


PATIENT JOURNALS Lessons Learned Series - No. 35
Adrian Pol M. Intal , 24, from Sta. Maria, Minalin, Pampanga, is battling chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML). He attributes his favorable and consistent improvement in his laboratory results to following his doctor’s treatment plan. Standard treatment protocols emphasize a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, hydration, gentle exercise, and adequate rest. He knows how critical it is to avoid infection risks, and adhere strictly to treatment plans in regular consult

EPCALM
Mar 30


PATIENT JOURNALS Lessons Learned Series - No. 34
John Patrick S. Regidor was diagnosed with acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL) in March 2023 at the age of 20. Following aggressive chemotherapy, the family celebrated a brief remission in late 2023. However, they faced the devastating news of a relapse in 2024. While his most recent bone marrow aspiration showed no leukemic cells, his hematologist has advised further chemotherapy; a bone marrow transplant is his best chance for long-term recovery. The financial toll on the Re

EPCALM
Mar 26


PATIENT JOURNALS Lessons Learned Series - No. 33
Rizz Ann Maysia T. Perlado-Lozares , 30, found hope during her battle with acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL) by having a positive attitude, and through the support of her loved ones. The first hurdle was accepting her condition so she could focus on recovery rather than denial. She attributes her healing to God's grace, and the unwavering support of her community. Relatives provided financial assistance, while church members, friends, and neighbors offered constant encouragem

EPCALM
Mar 19


PATIENT JOURNALS Lessons Learned Series - No. 32
Hector V. Valladolid Jr., 37, is a dedicated member of the EPCALM Foundation since April 2021. After a courageous battle with acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL), Hector’s oncologist confirmed in September 2022 that he is officially in remission. While Hector continues to face physical challenges, including significant hearing loss, he remains remarkably positive. He has adapted through lip-reading and continues to be an active participant in his spiritual community, regularly

EPCALM
Mar 12


PATIENT JOURNALS Lessons Learned Series - No. 31
This is the uplifting journey of Jonallyn B. Chentes, a 28-year-old survivor who has been a serviced patient of the EPCALM Foundation since 2018. Diagnosed with acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL) in 2016, she was forced to pause her education to undergo grueling treatment. The following years tested her physical and financial endurance, as her family faced significant challenges to cover both household and medical expenses. Although she was declared in remission in 2018, she re

EPCALM
Feb 26


PATIENT JOURNALS Lessons Learned Series - No. 30
Family love can significantly heal disease by providing emotional support, fostering healthier lifestyle choices, and creating a nurturing environment. Such was the experience of Editho G. Mula who has been courageously fighting chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML) since March 2020. He is a devoted husband to Liza, and a father of four from Butuan City, While the financial burden was a significant challenge, Tatay Editho and his family remained steadfast in their faith, as they

EPCALM
Feb 19


PATIENT JOURNALS Lessons Learned Series - No.29
Prayer is often described as a direct line of communication with God. It allows individuals to express their fears, hopes, and desires, fostering a deeper relationship with the divine. Throughout his life-altering journey with chronic myeloid leukemia (CML), Moises Angelo M. Pili , 22, used the power of prayers to seek direction in his life, asking for wisdom and clarity in his everyday decisions. Moises Angelo’s story highlights the profound impact of faith, a positive mi

EPCALM
Feb 12
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