Patient Stories Series
(No. 13)
Despite being diagnosed with chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML) in July 2019, the infectious zest for life of Annabelle C. Ravena, 42, shines through, making her an inspiring role-model for her three children and those around her. She will do anything for their welfare, and ensure that they thrive and grow healthy, and are successful in their adult lives.
She is determined in her fight against the disease, and hopeful that she will be well again someday – fuelled by the love of her family, embued with her strong faith in God. Their home in Pangarap Village, North Caloocan, is symbolic of her resilient hope. It is not just filled with her children’s laughter, but also with the joyful chaos of their fur babies – three dogs and four cats.
In her search for assistance for her medications, Annabelle got to know about EPCALM in 2022. She said that the foundation did not just provide her life-saving medications, but also opened her to a so-called world of connections with other leukemia warriors just like her.
When times sometimes get physically tough for her, the love of her children drives her to navigate the storms associated with her illness. She has discovered an unexpected silver lining in the form of newfound confidence, which radiates throughout her being – transforming her insecurities into self-assurance. And hope – which makes her smile at life, as she knows it.
We can learn a lesson from her leukemia journey – that even in the midst of a life-threatening disease like CML, , there can be moments of self-discovery and empowerment. Her story echoes not only with those battling leukemia, but also with anyone facing hardships. This is a reminder that strength and beauty can emerge from the darkest corners of life.
This CML warrior from Caloocan has become an inspiration for her co-patients, making her a confidently beautiful woman. (By Ralph Vale Joshua I. Solidum)
WE NEED YOUR HELP!
As a non-stock, non-profit organization, EPCALM Foundation needs your support for us to help our brothers and sisters who are living with adult leukemia, as well as their families. You can make a difference in their lives as they journey through the disease. Through your genuine act of kindness, we can provide them much-needed resources as they start rebuilding their lives.
To donate, you can either use PayPal (if you have a PayPal account) or you may use your debit/ credit card. Thank you very much!
Click this link to Donate:
BPI- St. Luke’s QC Branch:
Account Name – EPCALM Adult Leukemia Foundation of the Philippines
Savings Account No. – 3893 0612 57
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