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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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