Surviving leukemia with hope and resilience

Patient Stories Series

(No. 33)

A leukemia diagnosis is a life-altering event that often brings fear and uncertainty. However, it also highlights the profound strength and resilience of the human spirit.

In this article, we share the uplifting story of Rizz Ann Maysia T. Perlado-Lozares, a 30-year-old survivor who found hope during her battle with this disease. When she was diagnosed with acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL) in September 2015, the news was devastating. Yet, with the support of her loved ones, she faced the challenge head-on.

The first hurdle was acceptance. Acknowledging her condition allowed her to focus on recovery rather than denial. She traveled from Indang, Cavite, to Manila for chemotherapy at the Philippine General Hospital. Throughout her treatment, she endured significant physical toll, including bruising, deteriorating eyesight, and difficulty walking and swallowing. Despite these hardships, her determination never wavered.

Rizz Ann attributes her healing to God's grace and the unwavering support of her community. Her family and her then-fiancé managed her hospital care and sought out necessary medical resources. 

Relatives provided financial assistance, while church members, friends, and neighbors offered constant encouragement. In a remarkable show of solidarity, a group from her hometown even traveled together by jeepney to Manila to donate blood when she needed it most.

Today, Rizz Ann is fully recovered. She is happily married to Jeffrey Lozares, and they welcomed a healthy baby boy, Razz, in November 2023.

Rizz Ann’s journey proves that with the right mindset and a strong support system, it is possible to overcome even the most daunting obstacles. Her story serves as an inspiration to anyone facing their own battle, reminding us all that hope and resilience can prevail. (By Amelien Clariza D. Bacani)

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:

• PayPal: Use your PayPal account or a debit/credit card.

https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=P2EX9SYWXGYQY     

BPI- St. Luke’s QC Branch: 

Account Name – EPCALM Adult Leukemia Foundation

of the Philippines  Inc.                                                                                      

Savings Account No. – 3893 0612 57

• Bank Transfer: Direct fund transfer or check deposit.

Bank of the Philippine Islands – St. Luke’s QC Branch 

Account Name – EPCALM Adult Leukemia Foundation of the Philippines 

Savings Account No. – 3893 0612 57

*Kindly send us a copy of your Deposit Slip. 

• GCash: Send your donation directly through the app.

0968 691 4102 (Justice Demerre)

*Kindly send us a copy of your GCash Receipt through Viber at 0905.928.9896.

Thank you very much for your support!