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

Throughout his leukemia journey, 30-year-old Alvin S. Mendoza has been supported by well-meaning friends, who have collectively called themselves the "CML Warriors" in Pampanga.  Diagnosed with chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML) in January 2021, Alvin is grateful for these friends and sponsors who have provided him with free medication, and assisted him in accessing government financial assistance. Now, Alvin pays it forward by sharing his knowledge, faith, and humor to supp

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

Dwayne Raedhen N. Cabel , 25, has demonstrated remarkable resilience throughout his battle with acute myelogenous leukemia (AML). He was first diagnosed in October 2019. Despite the rigorous demands of multiple chemotherapy cycles, he remained dedicated to his academic goals and successfully graduated from college in 2021.  By 2023, he further achieved professional success by securing a position as an online graphic designer, even while undergoing another round of treatment.

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

Diagnosed with chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML) in November 2021 at the age of 36, Pedro P. Lising Jr. has faced a journey marked by significant challenges, frustration, and worry. A resident of San Nicolas, Mexico, Pampanga, his battle with CML is further complicated by pre-existing anxiety and hypertension. The months following his diagnosis have tested his resilience, yet Pedro has never lost hope. He has been fortunate to have the steadfast support of family and friend

Life was definitely wrought with challenges when Dennis L. Ballon was diagnosed with chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML) in August 2010.  Through the help of his “village of support systems”, led by his indefatigable wife, Shiela, Dennis has been benefitted by vital programs and services, including spiritual nourishment. Little by little, through the EPCALM Foundation, help came in the form of free chemo drugs, and more involvement in person-to-person engagements, among interv

Nerry Ann Aguilar:  A picture of fearlessness in the face of uncertainty. Patient Stories Series (No. 28) This is the inspiring story of Nerry Ann A. Aguilar , a resilient young woman from Oriental Mindoro who is currently facing a renewed battle against acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Financial hardships prevented her from finishing college. Nonetheless, she worked tirelessly as a service crew member until symptoms like extreme weakness and jaundice led her to seek medical hel

Patient Stories Series (No. 27) This is the inspiring story of Alvin S. Mendoza , a 30-year-old living with chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML) since January 2021. Despite his diagnosis, Alvin remains a cornerstone of his family, caring for his elderly parents, supporting his sisters, and providing emotional strength to his nieces. Alvin attributes his resilience to two core virtues: strength and faith in the Lord. He carries these values with him in every aspect of his life—f

Dwayne Raedhen Cabel: Designing his own story of hope and resilience. Patient Stories Series (No. 26) The story of Dwayne Raedhen N. Cabel  is one of courage and resilience. At 24, he is an online graphic designer from General Santos City in South Cotabato. His journey is a testament to hope and dogged faith – gritty, enduring.  A talented scholar and graduate of Ateneo de Manila University, Dwayne was diagnosed with acute myelogenous leukemia (AML) in October 2019. Despite t

Pedro Lising Jr.: “Never give up. Face every challenge with courage and hope.” Patient Stories Series (No. 25) The challenging journey of Pedro P. Lising Jr. began in November 2021 when he was diagnosed with chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML) at the age of 36. The diagnosis followed months of him feeling unusually exhausted and dealing with persistent infections—symptoms that were confusing and alarming to him and his family. While his life has been marked

Dennis Ballon: Grateful for a bittersweet ride; always hopeful for better days ahead. Patient Stories Series (No. 24) Since August 2010, Dennis L. Ballon , 43, has been journeying with chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML), which his wife, Shiela, has defined their “bittersweet” family life.  Born in Manila, he has often found himself relocating here and there, mainly due to the separation of his parents. As far as he can remember, his growing up years were marked with being exc

EPCALM joined other founding member-organizations of the Blood Cancer Alliance of the Philippines at the Bayanihan Blood Drive on 16 Sept, together with the Department of Medicine of St. Luke's Medical Center-Global City, Taguig City. Other BCAP members included Lymphoma Awareness Philippines, KAYA, and  MyeSpeak, among others. BCAP also partnered with the SLMC-GC Department of Medicine last year for the voluntary blood donation campaign. This was in celebration of Medicine W

The EPCALM Foundation, joins other Founding Members of the Blood Cancer Alliance of the Philippines (BCAP), in signing a partnership...

Although Armie A. Maglalang has fought her battle with chronic myelogenous leukemia since November 2020 in silence, often in isolation, it has made her faith in the Almighty stronger. “Leukemia is His gift to me,” she declares. It has made her a more obedient and trustful person, in her pursuit of answers to her present circumstances. Today, she is at peace with herself, as she finds comfort in the solace offered by God. Through various activities at EPCALM, her outlook in l

The life of Cristy T. Frias, 52, somehow flipped over when she received her diagnosis of acute myelogenous leukemia (AML). Despite her...

Renelle Avi C. Cabrieto, 31 , c ontinues to show hope and resilience despite the many setbacks life has thrown his way. It was already...

Christine S. Alfaro , 34, a devoted wife and mother of three, was diagnosed with chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML) in 2015. Her family...

Patient Stories Series (No. 23) Growing up in Angeles City, Pampanga, Armie A. Maglalang  had to face many health issues. Nonetheless,...

#TheGiftOfLife Thank you to our #BloodHeroes who joined the EPCALM Blood Donation Drive yesterday at St. Luke's - Global City, Taguig. This was timed with the observance of #BloodDonorsMonth.🩸 Shoutout to the men and women from the Armed Forces - Army, Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard, Marines - the BFP, PNP, CMOR, PCADG, churches, schools, private individuals, and many more. Our hearts are full!❤ Special thanks to our Partners from the SLMC-GC Blood Bank and Transfusion Service