The past months have been crazy for the family. We found out that Theodore needs surgical help and the required amount is huge. We definitely couldn't pay for all three stages of the operation. But when I asked for help and posted my plea online, help flooded. Prayers overflowed and my family is overwhelmed.
Thank you to...
...my family for the emotional and financial support. Mama was there the whole time. She had to miss work for weeks to be with me and Theodore. Papa had to get a loan to cover some of the expenses for Theodore's first operation. He had to pay back the loan for six years as salary deduction. My sister, Ikit, and her hubby, Daddy Edward, stayed at home to take care of Kuya Nathan and to process documents in my behalf.
...my husband, although he was not there to physically care for Theodore, I know he prays every night for baby's recovery and he works hard every day to earn money for the next surgery. Ate Janette and Fay Ann, thank you for helping us out financially; and to Mamang, who has been crying since Theodore's first surgery, thank you for asking the Carmelite Sisters to pray for him. To Even and Kuya Shernan, I know you are worried; don't be, your nephew is such a strong fighter.
...my relatives, thank you for proving that blood is thicker than water. Thank you for reaching out to extend help Ate Dangkai, Kuya Batit, Mama Becky, Tita Ching, Uncle Bonnie, Uncle Danny O., Auntie Leny, Auntie Gloria, Tita Lulu and Uncle Danny I. Thank you also for finding ways to get Theodore's much-needed blood, Mama Nenet and Papa Tony. Thank you, Te Sharon and Uncle Allan, for the loan and for helping me get funding from Cong. Dayanghirang and soon, from PCSO too. Thank you also, Tita Yndang, for processing my request for financial assistance from Governor Malanyaon, Vice Governor Almario and the Board Members.
...my OPAPP-OSEC family, thank you for remembering Theodore. You have proven that distance will never erase the (good and bad) times we've shared and the memories created. You still have the same love and care for the little fighter.
...my Speedy Publishing family, thank you for being most considerate. This is the first time that a boss from the US called my personal phone to check on me and my child. Thank you for sharing your blessings. Family is family regardless of where we hail and what our nationalities are.
...my two other bosses. Thank you, Sifu Matt, for understanding despite my absences; and for sharing your blessings too. Thank you, Murray, for not kicking me out. I know that since our working relationship started, I've already missed so much work. But despite my absences, you still shared your blessings with Theodore. I shall work harder to make up for the days I was gone.
...Drs. Aquino, Manalaysay and Palabyab, I got the best birthday present because of you. Theodore's first two surgeries have been very successful. You fixed him and kept him safe. You also allowed us to go home and settle the remaining balance when we can. Thank you.
...the DMSF medical staff, especially to Doc Hannah, thank you for taking care of my little boy. I know he was a toxic patient and his case was confusing but thank you for going the extra mile to encourage his speedy recovery.
...my barkada. We all have our problems but when Theodore got sick, you made him your priority. Thank you for the reassurances and for the kind words. I am grateful for the years of strong friendship. We have one more surgery and our baby will be better. We can finally tag him along the next time we have a get-together.
...my high school and college friends and colleagues. I know we have not seen each other for years and yet, you responded when we needed help. Thank you. You are true friends.
...my online friends. You have never met Theodore. Some of you may not even know me and my family personally but you shared our posts for help and you even sent money to add to our funds. Thank you very much.
...my brods and sis. Thank you for the kind thoughts. Brod Rey and Kibz, thank you for helping.
...the owner of Waysingaw, who didn't accept my payment when I needed to print Theodore's pictures and documents as needed requirements attached to my request for financial assistance.
Theodore is OUR baby. I gave birth to him, his father gave him his name but all of you helped to keep him here. Thank you and may God continue to shower you with blessings.
