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

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

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

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

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

This 14 September 2026, from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, join us for PULSE PROTOCOL, a special blood donation drive spearheaded by the Department of Medicine of the St. Luke’s Medical Center-Global City, in collaboration with the EPCALM Foundation, in observance of Blood Cancer Awareness Month. For patients living with leukemia and other blood disorders and cancers, blood and blood products can be essential throughout their treatment journey. Every donation can help make a difference

Christopher Biñas — His life was defined by his love for his family, and his determination to keep going despite life’s many challenges. Patient Stories Series (No. 49) Christopher G. Biñas was a 50-year-old husband and father of two who dedicated much of his life to providing for his family. From 1998 to 2017, he worked as an Overseas Filipino Worker, traveling to Taiwan, South Korea, and several countries in the Middle East. After nearly two decades abroad, he returned home

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

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

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

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

Drive for a cause. Play with purpose. Give hope. In observance of World Leukemia Awareness Month, the EPCALM Foundation will hold the 2 nd EPCALM Swing for Hope Invitational Golf Tournament on Monday, 21 September 2026, at the prestigious Sta. Elena Golf and Country Club in Santa Rosa City, Laguna. The fundraising tournament aims to generate support for the EPCALM Hope Fund, which enables the Foundation to provide vital assistance and comprehensive, family-centered care to ad

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

The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has renewed the Certificate of Registration and License to Operate of the EPCALM Foundation as an Auxiliary Social Welfare and Development Agency (SWDA). Issued on 8 July 2026, the renewed Registration and License is valid for three years. The renewal affirms EPCALM's continued compliance with the standards prescribed by the DSWD for governance, financial accountability, program implementation, and the delivery of qualit

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.

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

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

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