From diagnosis to determination: A journey of faith, hope, and healing
- EPCALM
- 3 days ago
- 3 min read
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.
"It took a bit of time, but I'm now ready to share my situation with everyone," he recalls. "My diagnosis came as painful and shocking news, so I needed time to process everything."
Yet amid the uncertainty and fear, he discovered something extraordinary—the overwhelming compassion of those around him.
"What helped me accept it more lightly was the continued support from my family, friends, and even from people I don't personally know who reached out with help, prayers, and care."
Finding strength. Ricjosef also found strength in becoming part of EPCALM, where he discovered a community of people who understood the challenges of living with leukemia.
"Because of my family, close friends, and EPCALM, where I recently became a member, I can face this challenge stronger and braver. I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to all of you for your help."
His treatment journey was anything but easy. By the time he first shared his story, he was already on the 14th day of chemotherapy, determined to face each day with courage and faith.
"I promise you that I will do everything to get through this, and I will keep fighting with you by my side. Even now, I am claiming my healing through God who strengthens me."
Love and healing. His words echo a quotation that has become a source of inspiration during his battle: "When the energy of compassion and love touches us, healing establishes itself." (Thích Nhất Hạnh)
After spending more than a month in three different hospitals, receiving a life-changing diagnosis, and completing 28 days of chemotherapy, Ricjosef was finally able to return home.
Although his recovery is still ongoing, he remains encouraged by the progress he has made: "I am not yet at 100 percent, but I continue to recover after all the medical tests and procedures over the past month. The good news is that my laboratory results have shown tremendous improvement compared to where they were at the start of the year."
He also underwent a bone marrow aspiration and biopsy to assess his response to treatment. Looking back, Ricjosef knows he did not reach this milestone alone.
He is now preparing for the consolidation phase of his treatment—an eight-month course consisting of four additional cycles of chemotherapy. While he knows the road ahead will be long, his faith remains steadfast.
"Tedious as it may seem, I know that I won't be battling this alone. I have God and all of you by my side. Whom shall I fear?"
Ricjosef's story is a reminder that while leukemia brings uncertainty, hope is strengthened through faith, family, friendship, and a compassionate community. At EPCALM, we remain committed to walking alongside patients like Ricjosef throughout their journey, ensuring that no one faces leukemia alone. (By Glenda E. Tanudtanud)
WE NEED YOUR HELP!
As a non-stock, non-profit organization, the EPCALM Foundation relies on your support to assist individuals living with adult leukemia and their families. Your generosity makes a significant difference in their lives as they navigate this disease. Through your kindness, we can provide the essential resources they need to begin rebuilding.
To make a donation, you may use any of the following methods:
*Kindly send us a copy of your Deposit Slip via Viber at 0905 928 9896.
*Kindly send us a copy of your GCash receipt via Viber at 0905 928 9896.
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