EPCALM patients and their families gathered anew at the EPCALM House in New Manila, Quezon City last 25 February 2023 for the first Family Huddle of the year. This was also live-streamed via Zoom for those who could not make it in in person, as well as those outside of Metro Manila. The Family Huddle is an occasion for patients and their families to fellowship with one another for spiritual nourishment, medical updates, and other activities.
Two new segments were introduced – the “Leukemia Updates Q/A” and “Good Nutrition 101.”
Dr. Catherine Rosales, Co-Director of the Medical Ministry, and a hematologist by profession, was designated as the “Doctor on Board.” Questions from patients related to leukemia were addressed, such as treatment options, and alternative medicine, among others.
On the other hand, the importance of good nutrition in cancer treatment was discussed by Crisan Dela Cruz, Co-Director of the Advocacy and Public Awareness Program. It was stressed that good nutrition can have a positive effect on one’s cancer journey, and eating a well- balanced diet will provide one’s body with a variety of nutrients before and during cancer treatments. In the next Family Huddle, a medical nutrition physician from the Cancer Nutrition Clinic of Cardinal Santos Medical Center In San Juan City will lecture on basic meal planning and “busting medical nutrition myths.”
The reflection and meditation were led by Pastor Bennie Lagos, Director of the Spiritual Care Ministry. He encouraged the patients and their families to be strong despite the many challenges they face in life, and to keep their faith in God alive.
EPCALM President and CEO, Engr. Justice Demerre, announced that the Family Huddle will be held every other month in 2023. Alternating months will be focused on arts and crafts, livelihood training, and other advocacy activities. Dr. Erlyn Demerre, EPCALM Founder and Board Chair, welcomed all the attendees, including the members of a D-Group of the Christ’s Commission Fellowship (CCF) in Pasig.
Other regular segments include a Healing Prayer for the special intentions and prayer requests of patients and their families; sharing of personal leukemia journey by patient, Annabelle Ravena; greeting of birthday celebrators for January and February 2023; games; a raffle draw; and group singing. A fellowship lunch capped the Family Huddle. We wish to thank the following for their generous donations to make the Family Huddle meaningfully successful – EPCALM Trustee Connie Ancheta, EPCALM Members Jaime and Annie So, Zenith Medical Equipment, and Corbridge Group Philippines.
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