She shares a smile that reflects her faith, hope, and resilience. Patient Stories Series (No. 48) At 39 years old, Riza M. Padronzulan has endured more than most people could imagine. A former domestic helper who worked in Singapore for six years, her medical journey began in March 2017, when she was first hospitalized at Tan Tock Seng Hospital. After returning to the Philippines due to persistent symptoms, she was diagnosed with myelodysplastic syndrome at the Philippine Gen

Patient Stories Series (No. 47) At just 34 years old, Ricjosef D. Buenos Aires never imagined that his life would change so dramatically. The only child of a family driver and a public-school teacher from Cardona, Rizal, he had built a promising career as an Accountancy graduate working as a virtual assistant for two foreign-based companies. In January 2026, everything changed when he was diagnosed with Acute myeloid leukemia (AML). The diagnosis came as a devastating shock.

Patient Stories Series (No. 46) Reycah Ezekiel B. Pablo, 24, is a Civil Engineering student from Taguig City, Metro Manila; he is a Dean’s Lister at the University of Makati. Since his diagnosis with acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL) in October 2024, his life has changed significantly. To focus on his health, he has had to pause his studies, and his passion for playing guitar with his band and at their church. Despite these challenges, Reycah remains brave and determined. Gu

Patient Stories Series (No. 45) George C. Lee-Chuy, 63, was diagnosed with acute myelogenous leukemia (AML) in 2013. At the time of his diagnosis, George and his family were overwhelmed with fear, believing that leukemia was an inevitable death sentence. However, today, George is cancer-free and has been in remission for over 10 years. Before his diagnosis, he lived a fast-paced life—partying, smoking, and rarely sleeping. Following a sudden collapse, he was eventually diagno

Margie with her “miracle” baby, Mhira Claire: Exemplifying emotional fortitude amid the challenges of her leukemia journey. Patient Stories Series (No. 44) Despite the challenges of 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 nav

Merlita Macalino: No one has to face the leukemia battle alone. Patient Stories Series (No. 43) Merlita B. Macalino, a 34-year-old mother of two from Macabebe, Pampanga, has been battling chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML) since January 2021. Though initially overwhelmed by her diagnosis, Merlita has faced her illness with remarkable resilience and determination. Throughout her treatment, Merlita’s family has been her anchor. Her husband, John Phillip, and their children have

Shella May Lopera: Her journey is a powerful testament to the human spirit and the importance of hope. Patient Stories Series (No. 42) Shella May A. Lopera, a resilient 23-year-old from Norzagaray, Bulacan, is currently navigating life with chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML). Diagnosed at age 18, Shella May has faced numerous challenges, including an arduous path to a correct diagnosis during the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite her health struggles and the financial constraints of

Marlene Laylo: Strong family bonds effectively ensure her healthcare and wellbeing. Patient Stories Series (No. 41) Marlene A. Laylo, 67, is a long-time serviced patient of the EPCALM Foundation. Diagnosed with chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML) in October 2014, she was initially given only three years to live. Today, more than a decade later, she continues to thrive through God’s grace and the exceptional support of her family. Now residing in Batangas, Marlene travels quart

Ehd's unwavering faith provides him with a sense of peace that transcended his physical limitations Patient Stories Series (No. 40) In the city of Imus, Cavite, Edrelino R. Garcia, 59—affectionately known as "Ehd"—lived a peaceful retirement with his wife, Geneveve. A former police officer, Ehd dedicated 40 years to serving and protecting various parts of the Philippines. Together, they found comfort in their suburban home, surrounded by the love of their three adult children

Ernesto Laxamana: God’s grace and mercy, with his family’s support, helped him through his challenging leukemia journey. Patient Stories Series (No. 39) The leukemia journey of Ernesto P. Laxamana , 70, is a testament to resilience and the amazing power of family support. Originally from Concepcion, Tarlac, he moved to Angeles City, Pampanga, to build a better life for his family, establishing himself through his work as a tailor in Dau, Pampanga. His life took an unexpected

Nico S. Ugay: Strength found in prayers and family are vital in healing and recovery. Patient Stories Series (No. 38) Nico S. Ugay , 28, from Las Piñas City recalls his rollercoaster ride with acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL), which began in March 2016. He shares his leukemia journey’s ups and downs, which he said is a story of faith and resilience. His B-Cell ALL was diagnosis at the Philippine General Hospital following several episodes of fainting, fatigue, and dizziness.

Camello de la Cruz Raagas: Hopeful to get full recovery some day through God’s mercy, and his family’s love. Patient Stories Series (No. 37) Camello DLC Raagas , a 33-year-old father, has been battling chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) since 2018. Despite his diagnosis, he expresses that his greatest struggle is not the illness itself, but the daily challenge of overcoming poverty to provide for his two children. His life has been marked by hardship. Following his parents' separ

Rolly B. Franco: “There is life after leukemia, indeed.” Patient Stories Series (No. 36) The journey of Rolly B. Franco , 34, with chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML) is a profound testament to the preciousness of life and the power of faith. Diagnosed in 2018 after experiencing severe weight loss, physical lumps, blurred vision, and an enlarged spleen, he sought medical attention in San Fernando and Arayat, Pampanga, where he comes from. Following a series of tests, includin

Adrian Pol Intal: Keeping the challenges of life balanced toward recovery. Patient Stories Series (No. 35) Leukemia patients frequently face physical symptoms such as fatigue, infection, and bone pain, alongside emotional challenges like depression and family disruption. Managing these difficulties is essential for the well-being of both patients and their families. Standard treatment protocols emphasize a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, hydration, gentle exerci

John Patrick Regidor: Hoping for better days, with a smile. Patient Stories Series (No. 34) Most people who meet John Patrick S. Regidor see a polite 22-year-old with a soft voice and a disarming smile. But behind that smile is a battle that began long before his leukemia diagnosis—one that continues even to this day. JP, the youngest son of the late Patricio III and Theresa Regidor, grew up in Naga City, Camarines Sur in a home anchored by faith and perseverance. A Civil En

Patient Stories Series (No. 33) A leukemia diagnosis is a life-altering event that often brings fear and uncertainty. However, it also highlights the profound strength and resilience of the human spirit. In this article, we share the uplifting story of Rizz Ann Maysia T. Perlado-Lozares , a 30-year-old survivor who found hope during her battle with this disease. When she was diagnosed with acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL) in September 2015, the news was devastating. Yet, with

Hector Valladolid Jr.: Thankful to EPCALM for helping him on the road to healing. Patient Stories Series (No. 32) After a long battle with acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL), Hector V. Valladolid Jr., 37, has reached a place of peace. In September 2022, his oncologist confirmed he was in remission. Seeking relief from the emotional and physical toll of his illness, Hector and his wife temporarily moved to her hometown in Sevilla, Bohol, to pursue a quieter life, and a more r

Jonallyn B. Chentes: Leukemia could not stop her from fulfilling her dream of finishing her college studies—for her, and for her loved ones. Patient Stories Series (No. 31) Jonallyn B. Chentes, 28, has been a serviced patient of the EPCALM Foundation since 2018. Diagnosed with acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL) on 4 July 2016, her life changed just as she was preparing to enter college. What began as persistent swelling led to a diagnosis at the Philippine General Hospital, fo

Editho G. Mula (in orange shirt), with his wife: A picture of hope in the face of life’s challenges. Patient Stories Series (No. 30) Editho G. Mula , affectionately known as Tatay Editho , has been courageously fighting chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML) since March 2020. A devoted husband to Liza and a father of four from Butuan City, Tatay Editho has spent his life working tirelessly as a tailor, surveyor, and steelman to provide for his family, often surviving on only a fe

Moises Angelo Pili: Healing is possible through the power of prayers. Patient Stories Series (No. 29) Moises Angelo M. Pili is a young man whose resilience continues to shine despite a life-altering diagnosis. At 22, he is a vibrant Computer Engineering student from Purok 2, San Jose, Sta. Ana, Pampanga. He was diagnosed with chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) following a medical procedure. His treatment began with Hetero Imatinib, presenting immense physical and emotional chall