The following was written by Marlys yesterday when we found out that our little TomTom would need surgery the very next day. Today. Please pray with us that he will recover from this dangerous surgery. We love him so.
Hello everyone,
Dr. Aldana is the son of a prominent neurosurgeon in Cebu, who was one of our doctors way back in the early 80's. He is here with a team from Florida, doing surgeries at the government hospital called Vicente Sotto Medical Center. He examined Thomas yesterday, along with our own surgeon, Dr. Mark Gigataris, and a Pediatric Intensive Care specialist, also from Florida. They have an organization that raises funds to do surgeries for low income patients, and they happened to have one vacant bed so admitted Thomas yesterday afternoon to VSMC. The director of the neurosurgery department, Dr. Briones, was also at the meeting. Dr. Briones said that VSMC has the best and most complete facilities and equipment to perform the surgery that Thomas needs to address his urgent need, which is to remove the fluid that is building up in his brain. The surgery, called Endoscopic Third Ventriculostomy, will be done in a few hours. While doing the surgery they hope to drain the fluid, but if they notice that it isn't working well they will put in a shunt during this procedure. They would prefer to put the shunt in two to three months later, but they will have to wait to see how things progress today.
Thomas is in the pediatric ward, which is about the size of our lab in the infirmary. There are six patients in there, and there is barely space for a chair in between the beds. There is an air conditioner, so that is a blessing.
Thomas has complained of headaches lately, and the Aunties told us that sometimes he just lies down suddenly, so those are signs that the hydrocephalus is starting to cause some problems.
The next surgery will be done in a few months to reconstruct the back of the skull, as there is an obstruction there, which caused cysts to form on the spinal cord. Six titanium plates will be needed, which cost P40,000 each. Dr. Aldana brought plates with him, so he will donate some of them for Thomas, and the surgeries will all be free. As you can imagine, we were thrilled to hear that. He said that Dr. Gigataris has a huge job ahead of him to help our precious Thomas. Dr. Gigatiris is thankful that Dr. Aldana is here to help with the ETV, as it sounds like he hasn't done this particular surgery very often.
Thomas adores Dr. Gigataris, and whenever he gets a bit nervous he calms down immediately when we reassure him that Dr. Mark will be with him every minute of his surgery.
When Dr. Gigataris first met Thomas four years ago he told us he would need to do complicated reconstruction of his skull for sutures that were fused prematurely. When he heard how he needed surgery in Manila for stents in his nostrils to breathe when he was five months old, he told us with tears in his eyes, "This boy has been fighting for his life, and I want to help him fight even more." He did an amazing job with Thomas in 2014 and has taken good care of him ever since.
Dr. Gigataris' wife is Tom's neurologist. One day when we were in her office she told Tom that she loved him. He said, "I love you" back to her, but was looking at the colorful decals on her walls, not really paying attention to her. She held his face in her hands and told him that if he is going to tell someone that he needs to look the person in the eyes, so he looked up at her and said, "I love you." It was a touching moment. These two stories illustrate how wonderful this couple is, and we are thankful to have such loving and caring doctors for our children.
There is no doubt in our minds that the Lord brought this wonderful team of doctors here at the perfect time for Tom, and we have all the confidence in our own doctors here in Cebu. Thank you for your prayers for this incredible little boy.
Celebrating Buwan ng Wika and 26 Years of Cebu Children of Hope School
Cebu Children of Hope School came alive recently with the vibrant colors, sounds, and spirit of Filipino culture. It was culmination and celebration of Buwan ng Wika (language month), and the celebration also marked the school's 26th anniversary. The theme, "Filipino: Wikang Mapagpalaya," resonated deeply with everyone, reminding us of the power of our language to free and unite us as a people.
Festivities began with anticipation as students from all levels—kindergarten to grade 6—prepared to showcase their talents. Each performance reflected a deep love for the Filipino heritage. From energetic folk dance and soulful singing of classic Filipino songs to heartfelt recitations of poetry and creative interpretative dances, the students' efforts shone brightly.
Our beautifully decorated stage, set in a barrio fiesta theme, added a festive backdrop that enhanced every performance. One of the day's highlights was a surprise performance by the teachers of CCHS. With ukuleles and guitars in hand, we serenaded the crowd with beloved Filipino folk songs like "Bahay Kubo," "Si Felimon," and "Paru-Parong Bukid." The music filled the room, and the joyful expressions on the students' faces were priceless. It was a moment of unity and nostalgia, where generations celebrated our shared culture.
Out in the courtyard awaited a feast of traditional Filipino food. The tantalizing aroma of crispy "lechon baboy" paired with puso (hanging rice) filled the air. Students lined up eagerly to savor the flavors of home—refreshing buko juice, taho, and calamansi juice to cool down from the sun, and delectable treats like chicharon, buko pie, ice cream, empanadas, lanzones, watermelon, and the always-tasty customary lumpia and dynamite chili lumpia. The atmosphere was filled with laughter, chatter, and an unmistakable sense of community and, reinforcing the bonds that tie us as a community and reminding us of the beauty and freedom found in our language and culture.
Here's to many more years of celebrating our heritage, language, and shared dreams at Cebu Children of Hope School. To all of our supporters in this ministry, a big thank you for being a part of this incredible journey!
Beyond Clinics
On behalf of our Medical Department....
"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." — Jeremiah 29:11 (NIV)
Everything begins with God and flows from Him. Each of us is a vital part of His divine plan, placed in this moment in history for a purpose.
From the beginning, it was a challenge to find a doctor willing to step out of their clinics or hospitals to visit our children and dedicate the time needed to check on each of them. But God, in His perfect timing, gave us an extraordinary physician whose heart was indeed with the kids. For the first time in CSC's history, the medical department successfully conducted an Annual Physical Examination of all the residents. In collaboration with the CSC medical team, the physician conducted thorough check-ups on all the residents, addressing major and minor concerns. This was a great gift from our Almighty God! We also thank God for the joyful dedication of our medical staff, who, with their unwavering commitment, assisted the doctor in this vital mission.
One of our beloved long-term residents, who joyfully received care from the doctor, stands as a powerful testament to the impact of our work. Their joy and health clearly reflect the importance of our mission and the need for continued support.
These playful kids patiently waited and cooperated well as the doctor checked on them during their turn, a testament to their understanding of the importance of their health and well-being.
This momentous achievement reminds us that God's plans for us are always good, even when the journey seems complicated. Just as Jeremiah 29:11 assures us, God has a purpose and a plan that brings hope and a future. Through His provision of a compassionate physician and a dedicated medical team, He has shown His care for every child in our shelter. He answers and provides for every need, even our seemingly impossible prayers. As we reflect on this milestone, we are reminded that when we trust in His timing and purpose, God faithfully provides for every need, big or small, in ways beyond our expectations.
Health Does Matter
The Cebu Children of Hope School (CCHS) recently observed Nutrition Month. In her opening greeting, Mrs. Criselda Tabra, our school principal, encouraged everyone to take good care of our bodies by eating a balanced diet and staying healthy. One of the CSC nurses then led a discussion and offered advice on leading a healthy lifestyle.
Next up was Zumba! Moving our bodies is another approach to maintaining our health. Both the teachers and the students had a great time dancing. Then, our ever-enthusiastic coordinators guided the students and staff through a series of engaging games. Every student enjoyed the opportunity to take part, and those who correctly identified the answer received prizes. Then came one of the most anticipated parts of the program: the announcement of the Nutrition Month coloring contest winners. Way to go, guys, and enjoy your prizes!
The last part of the program included eating nutritious foods beside the courtyard. Most students enjoyed it, while others were trying to finish their share. What a fun way to commemorate Nutrition Month.
The program and activities were only an hour-long program, yet somehow they made an impact on everyone present at that moment. The experience was also one way of letting our students know that the people around them value their health and well-being. A huge "thank you" to everyone at CCHS and CSC who works hand in hand to ensure our children's good health. And as adults serving these children, we also must stay healthy in all aspects.
So, what is the ideal thing to do to be able to achieve a healthy lifestyle? This is one of the most common questions that most of us ask when we aim to live longer and happier. Well, the answer depends on how determined someone is to stay healthy. First, stay positive, then feed yourself in healthy ways. And the list goes on and on. What about you? What is your definition of being healthy? Are you doing things that promote good health physically, socially, financially, emotionally, mentally, and most importantly, spiritually? What a great reminder it is to start evaluating how we are doing as stewards of our bodies and our whole lives. The good thing is that it is not too late to start living healthy lives. So, what are you waiting for?
Start now!
As Bonnie Pfiester says, "Today is your day to start fresh, to eat right, to train hard, to live healthy, and to be proud." Bethany Johnson also says, "Our body is an incredible gift that only we can steward. Care for your body can be fun—not a burden or a 'should'—but a daily and empowering project of love for yourself and an expression of gratitude for God's wonderful work. That's you!"
Together in Celebration
A toddler proudly rushes to show her Sunday school artwork to her big sister. A school-aged child scans the audience to see his parents watch him perform. A teen gets emotional over the applause she receives after delivering a heartfelt speech. You and I, whether we admit it or not, also long to be lauded, validated, or acknowledged for some of our accomplishments or for simply doing a good job. Be it on birthdays, special events, and occasions—like being on stage to get a diploma—we all want to be recognized or appreciated.
When it comes to students—kindergarten, elementary, or high school—it's not any different. Being in a phase where there's not only much learning but also change and growth, they, too, need to be recognized for their milestones and successes. This is where the Baccalaureate comes in. The Baccalaureate is a celebration of our students' hard work and achievements. It is where graduates are recognized and praised for finally crossing the finish line. It's a joyous celebration, but only so because the people grace the occasion and express love to the celebrants. That's what makes it special—you and me and the love that we share with them.
Warmly welcomed by our Program Director, Eunice Guinanoy, and Field Director, Roberto Atienza Jr., the tone of the celebration was set. In a moment, the graduates began to be recognized, and first up were two kindergarteners who beamed with pride upon hearing their names called for their first graduation. After the recognition, three elementary graduates and a graduate's sister sang and danced with smiles that showed how much they cherished each other. Six junior high school graduates also carried out a skit that spoke some snippets of their high school journey, hearts' worries and desires, and a message affirming that the Lord's purpose will prevail in their lives. One senior high school graduate also shared a thank-you speech expressing gratitude to CSC and two other graduates' reflections and gratitude to the Lord and everyone who supported them to make their way to the end of a chapter. Their journey was not just about academic achievements but also about emotional growth and resilience, which we all can relate to.
Heartfelt prayers echo in the room where heads are bowed. One of the celebration's highlights is when houseparents prayed for their respective graduates. We surrendered the graduates' new chapter to our unchanging Heavenly Father. To continue the lovely atmosphere, everyone enjoyed various snacks and refreshments. The attendees were delighted to see the appealing colors and flavors of the food and enjoyed the bites while conversations flowed easily, punctuated by laughter and shared memories.
Our presence, applause, prayers, and efforts to celebrate are the ways we validate their achievements. We were there, too; we graduated, too. And we had our share of victories and celebrations. Some people were with us, too—many or few. There may have been times when no one was there to watch us succeed. It doesn't make the milestone any less significant. What's important is that we finished something. What is better though is that we celebrate with people. That's what a Baccalaureate is—a celebration of shared achievements and the community that makes it possible.