He looks forward to being a leukemia survivor in 2026

EPCALM
2 hours ago
2 min read

*Nico S. Ugay: Strength found in prayers and family are vital in healing and recovery.*

Patient Stories Series

(No. 38)

Nico S. Ugay, 28, from Las Piñas City recalls his rollercoaster ride with acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL), which began in March 2016. He shares his leukemia journey’s ups and downs, which he said is a story of faith and resilience.

His B-Cell ALL was diagnosis at the Philippine General Hospital following several episodes of fainting, fatigue, and dizziness. The treatment process was physically and emotionally draining, involving four years of monthly chemotherapy sessions and blood transfusions.

He gradually transitioned to maintenance medication, and was advised to stop treatment altogether in 2021, when he was officially declared in full remission.

*Nico Ugay with his mother (right), and EPCALM Social Worker, Ma. Genella Flores.*

The term “in remission” in healthcare is often used to describe a passive or inactive state of a disease. For a person living with a medical condition, this usually means going from having evident or severe symptoms to having few, mild, or no measurable signs and symptoms.

Since then, Nico has remained symptom-free. He attributes his health to God’s grace and a disciplined lifestyle focused on proper nutrition and hydration. He remains deeply grateful to his family, especially his brother, who supported his medical expenses, and his mother, who tirelessly sought assistance and cared for him throughout his treatment.

Today, Nico is a dedicated service attendant in shopping mall in Sucat, Paranaque City a role he has held since 2022. His income, along with contributions from his mother and sister, support their household.

Whenever Nico joins the EPCALM community in prayer, his requests are consistently centered on thanksgiving and the healing of other patients. He reaffirms these prayers and, with a smile, added a personal hope for marriage in his future.

Nico’s story is a powerful testament to the strength found in faith and family. We continue to keep him and all our patients in our prayers. (By Ma. Genella P. Flores)

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