A Joyous Child Confronting Illness

From Bliss to Battles: A Transformation of a Joyous Child Confronting Illness 

 

In 2016, my family and I traveled to Cebu for a consultation after discovering large lumps under my arm, as big as an egg. We visited a doctor in Liloan, Cebu, who recommended an X-ray to determine the abnormalities within my body. Following the X-ray, we were advised to go to Vincente Sotto Hospital for further examination. Upon arrival, we encountered a crowded waiting area with numerous patients patiently awaiting their turn. After nearly four hours of waiting, it was finally my turn for the check-up. Inside the examination room, I witnessed various distressing scenes - the cries of babies, an elderly man in agony due to a broken leg, and a frightened young boy observing the medical tools. I felt uneasy and apprehensive at that moment, but I managed to complete the check-up without shedding tears, although I was still somewhat scared.

 

After my check-up we visited Cebu Cathedral to offer prayers, hoping that my condition was not severe. In the attached photo, you can see me with my Auntie, who accompanied me during the check-up and joined me in prayer at the cathedral. God tested my faith when the doctor suggested another X-ray, but unfortunately, the results revealed nothing significant. Therefore, we were advised to undergo Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI). This news saddened me as we lacked sufficient funds for the procedure. However, my family found a way, and I was fortunate enough to undergo the MRI. I felt immense fear due to my ignorance about the machines used in medical field, and the sight of sick individuals only intensified my anxiety. When the results of my MRI were released, we hoped for a positive outcome, praying that surgery would not be necessary. However, our hopes were shattered when the doctor informed us that I had a tumor. Although it was non-cancerous, surgery was still required. I cried profusely at the thought of undergoing surgery, as I had a fear of blood and death. The doctor explained that a biopsy was necessary to confirm the nature of the tumor within me.

 

God tested my faith once again, and additional expenses were incurred due to my illness. On the day of my scheduled biopsy, I felt extremely hungry and thirsty as instructed by the doctor to refrain from eating or drinking. The room I entered exuded a negative atmosphere, filled with sick patients, weeping mothers, and unconscious individuals in beds. As I entered the operating room for the biopsy, I remember lying on a bed-like structure, and my vision faded to black as I was sedated to avoid feeling any pain during the procedure. After an hour, I woke up feeling numb. Although I was famished, the nurses informed me that I had to wait for four hours before eating. Once the waiting period passed, we found a place to eat and then immediately returned home for me to rest.

 

The doctor advised us to wait a few days for the biopsy results. After a week, the hospital contacted us, informing us that the results were available, and we needed to return to the hospital.

 

This is a photo of me with my lola and auntie at Basilica Minore Del Santo Niño. We were praying that the results would not be bad and that I wouldn't need an operation since we don't have enough money for it. As you can see in the photo, my lola is holding a bag containing my MRI and X-ray results, begging and praying to the Holy Child to save me from the danger of my illness.

 

After visiting Santo Niño, we immediately went to the hospital for the results. When we arrived, the nurse told us to go to the doctor's office for further explanation about my condition. I felt mixed emotions as I sat down in the chair in front of the doctor. The doctor started talking and explaining, but the only thing I heard was that I needed to undergo an operation and have my arm amputated up to the shoulder. I cried because I didn't want to lose my arm. I asked the doctor if there were any alternatives to cutting my arm, but the doctor told us that there was no other way.

 

The doctor continued explaining, but my mind kept recalling the words he said. Another thing I heard was that the operation might cause me to die due to the complexity of the procedure, and even if it was successful, the tumor could come back after a few years. I asked the doctor what's the purpose of the operation if I would continue to suffer from this illness. The doctor then told me that there were possibilities of surviving this battle, but I chose not to have the operation because we didn't have enough money for it.

 

We went home carrying a big problem. My family asked me again if I was ready for an operation, but my decision was final. I didn't want to undergo the operation because it would be a waste of money, and I didn't want to be a burden on my family. My family agreed with my decision and kept saying that I would overcome this situation. We decided to go to Simala, one of the biggest churches located in Cebu to pray for my health 

In the photo, you can see me and my beloved Auntie capturing moments at Simala. It was a dream come true for me, as I had always longed to visit this place. We prayed to Mother Mary, seeking her guidance in my journey as a child battling illness. I prayed for her protection and for a longer life, even without undergoing surgery. It appears that my prayers were answered, as it has been nine years since my diagnosis, and I am still here, persevering and fighting my own battles.

 

I returned home to Pilar to continue my studies, despite no longer being a healthy and typical child. Despite my circumstances, I continue to pursue my dreams and achieve my goals. I am grateful for my life, as I consistently included to the top students. Now, at 19 years old, I am a graduating Grade 12 student. I am overjoyed that, despite years of battling this illness, I have managed to complete high school. I am incredibly thankful for the opportunity, as not all students in situations like mine are able to continue pursuing their dreams.

 

Through my experience, I have learned a valuable lesson - no matter how difficult life may become, we must keep moving forward. Disability or illness should never be a hindrance to pursuing our dreams. It is our faith that strengthens us, knowing that God holds the knowledge of our time in this world and the challenges we face. With unwavering faith, determination, and a positive mindset, we can overcome any obstacle that comes our way.

To those who may be going through their own battles, remember that you are not alone. Keep moving forward, even when the path seems uncertain. Your circumstances do not define you; it is your unwavering spirit and determination that will shape your journey. Believe in yourself and never give up on your dreams, for they have the power to transcend any obstacle.

 

Let us cherish the blessings in our lives and be grateful for the opportunities we have. Life is a precious gift, and every moment, even the difficult ones, holds the potential for growth and transformation. May this blog inspire you to embrace resilience, find hope in the midst of adversity, and continue pursuing your dreams, no matter the challenges you may face.