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