Battle

 It has been nearly three months since you last saw me, and I wanted to share an update on my journey. For almost two years, I experienced persistent inflammation in my left eye, which led me to undergo a vitrectomy with phacoemulsification and a biopsy in Asian Hospital and Medical Center. Unfortunately, despite this procedure and a repeat biopsy performed at St. Luke’s BGC in March 2024, the results remained inconclusive. This prompted us to seek a second opinion in Singapore, where I was diagnosed with vitreoretinal lymphoma in June 2024.

We began treatment at MaDocs, but before my fifth chemotherapy cycle, I experienced a sudden seizure. An MRI revealed a mass in my frontal lobe, and a stereotactic biopsy confirmed it was lymphoma. This prompted an adjustment to my treatment plan. I am now undergoing a seven-cycle chemotherapy regimen at MMC, under the care of my co-interns Dr. Edusma-Dy, Dr. Ferrer, and Dr. Capellan, as well as my dear friend and classmate, Dr. Alemany. Thankfully, the treatment appears to be effective—the mass has shrunk significantly. The next step involves an intrathecal methotrexate injection, and I remain hopeful that we are moving in the right direction.

I want to extend my deepest gratitude to everyone who has helped make this difficult time more bearable for me and my family. First and foremost, to my wife, Peachy, who has been an unwavering pillar of strength throughout this ordeal—she never gave up and remained strong for us. To my children, Keisha, Yman, and Gaby, who have amazed me with their resilience and achievements despite their young age. I also want to thank my mom, who has never left my side.

I am grateful to my MDH family, especially Dr. Nica Yanga, for generously providing me with a hospital bed, and to the alumni and consultant staff for their prayers and financial support. A special shoutout to my batchmate Dada—you know what you’ve done, and I can’t thank you enough. To my MCI family—Dr. Carpiso, Dr. Ramirez, Dr. Nocon, Dr. Umali, and Dr. Navarrete—thank you for your unwavering support. I also want to express my appreciation to the PSO-HNS for their financial assistance and encouragement during this challenging time.

Finally, to all my friends and family who continue to keep me in their thoughts and prayers, thank you from the bottom of my heart.

While I am still on the path to recovery, I am slowly getting better and I look forward to personally thanking each and every one of you in time. Please continue to pray for my full recovery.

God bless us all.