Patient Stories Series
(No. 14)
Originally from Parañaque City, Frederick A. Oaper moved to Nangka, Marikina City in 2015 to start a married life with his wife, Lourdes. They both led active lifestyles in their early years together, often leading hiking activities and joining fun runs, among other sports events.
About four years later, in March 2019, Frederick was diagnosed with acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL), is a blood cancer characterized by a marked increase in a type of immature white blood cells known as promyelocytes. APL develops most often in adults aged 40 years and above. Frederick is 41.
In searching for answers to his questions at the time, he learned about EPCALM and its programs and services. He lost no time in reaching out to the Foundation, and became a serviced patient about a month after his diagnosis.
Frederick and his wife were unemployed during this crucial time, which made their situation very challenging. They were faced with many hurdles, especially the mounting medical-related demands to cover for his hospitalization, laboratory and diagnostic procedures, blood transfusions, chemotherapy sessions, and other medications. Apart from the physical battles, Frederick also had to wrestle with psychological and mental health issues.
Thankfully, surrounded by an army of prayer warriors from family, relatives, friends and colleagues, they were able to find comfort and much-needed financial help. Through various donations and fundraising drives, they managed to pool together about P2 million, which substantially assisted them.
The strong support system was a big boost to the morale of Frederick and his wife, as they were now more focused on his getting well in his leukemia journey.
As he looks back at what he went through, he admits there were bad days, when he found himself overthinking his circumstances, and resulted in an unfavorable state of mind. He had many questions, but these were all overpowered by the ever-present love and support of his family and friends.
Frederick has been in remission since 2020. He is off his chemotherapy medications, and is building his resistance and immune system through vitamins and supplements. He looks forward to 2025, when his doctor will hopefully declare him leukemia-free.
Now employed as a delivery rider in a private courier company, Frederick continues to be active in regular activities of EPCALM, more so as it gives him the opportunity to meet other leukemia patients, which he said reinforces his motivation to keep moving forward in his leukemia journey. (By Jelyn A. Levantino).
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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