FighTIN!!! Tin’s Fight against Cancer

FEAR…

It was April 8, 2024, 9am. It was just one of those normal busy days at work when I received a call that would tilt the earth on its axis. I was sitting down in front of my computer when I got it. It was Christine, one of my closest friends and confidant. We were practically siblings as our history goes way back in our college days. She seemed upset, which was so unlike her, and then she broke the news. I heard her say something again, but I did not understand it anymore. I was the first of her friends to know, but I refused to believe it until I personally saw her. So, I found myself booking a flight to the Philippines.

Christine, who is just 30 years old, almost the same age as me, was diagnosed to have a very aggressive type of Breast Cancer Stage 4. Her family was in shock. I felt the pain and the disbelief in the sound of her mom’s voice when I spoke to her, she was trying hard to control herself not to cry. They did not see this coming and so did I. I have known people who have been struck with the “Big C” and I know how hard it is for them. It brings fear and uncertainty no matter what stage it is. But now I know that one can never really tell and feel the pain is real not until you, yourself, or someone closest to you has been afflicted.

STRENGTH…

I was able to see Christine nine days after her surgery. She did not know I was coming. She was surprised but pleasantly so. Everything seemed normal. She looked just the same the last time I saw her. You will be deceived into thinking she is well.

She smiled at me and laughed with me; it seemed like nothing was amiss. I did not sense any fear in her but maybe deep down inside, it must be heartbreaking and terrifying for her, stepping into this living nightmare, confronting fears she never thought she would face. Still, she was unyielding, and she knew she had our support. I visited her every day; I admire her strength as she maintained her high spirit and her faith has never been stronger. I wanted to stay for much longer, to be there for her. It was only when we said goodbye that she showed her tears. I was reluctant to say goodbye as well.

After her surgery and within two months, she was admitted in the hospital twice. Tests and consults with different doctors day after day, waiting in line for her name to be called, her body poked by needles one after the other, two chest tubes attached to her left and right, not knowing what lies ahead for her in the future. Not once did we hear any complaints from her. Family and friends visited her, but she did not show any sign of tiredness and weakness. And she knows she will be facing some tough days and rough nights; physical, emotional and mental drain. But this will pass and there is light at the end of the tunnel.

LOVE and PASSION…

“Tin”, as we fondly call her, is the second among the siblings. Since her parents left to work in another country, she and the eldest, Therese, took the responsibility and stood as parents to their younger sisters, Marielle and Gavrielle. They are not just the typical sisters; their bond and closeness are truly admirable and inspiring. Despite not having their parents present physically, they were able to maintain a strong relationship as a family. She loves her parents and sisters dearly and is ready to sacrifice anything for them.

Tin always had a very bright future ahead of her. She obtained her Doctorate degree in Physical Therapy, and she worked for various national and professional sports teams in the Philippines. She has travelled with these teams to different countries representing the Philippines with pride and joy. Tin is hardworking and a go-getter. She cares for her patients and radiates passion every time she is on the field. With her charisma and efficient work ethic, she has touched the hearts of many athletes and helped in their recovery. If you know her, you know that she is an avid and loyal BTS fan, smart, dependable, compassionate, fun, always ready with a helping hand, resilient, and never ceases to challenge herself. And I have no doubt that she is also determined to fight this battle, to be back on her feet and do what she loves most, fulfilling her role as a sports physiotherapist.

HOPE…

Tin is blessed to be surrounded by family, friends, and communities, who truly support and love her. Considering how much we love her and her young age, we owe her everything to give her the best opportunity for a long and healthy life. Sophisticated healthcare to adequately deal with the severity of her illness is very limited in our home country that is why we are hoping and praying that she could come to the United States to obtain treatment options from the best cancer hospitals and doctors in the world. Although her recent scan results were not that encouraging, we believe coming here will allow her the best chance of recovery. Her oncologist recommended a treatment available here in the US but not in the Philippines and she thinks this option would work best on her case. Right now, Tin is preparing herself for the next step so as not to delay treatment while she is still in the Philippines. Every minute counts and every decision is crucial.

The cost of healthcare in the United States is astounding and overwhelming most especially if you do not have insurance coverage. I am launching this Go Fund Me with the hopes of helping her cover some of her medical expenses. The possible costs may include physician services, inpatient stays, outpatient surgery and care, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, laboratory and radiographic tests, medical equipment and prescription medications, additional treatment modalities, and other expenses related to her medical condition which can mean hundreds of thousands.

FAITH…

I know that Tin’s parents, Ariel and Barbara, if they have their way, would have traded places with her. They would never wish for another parent to be in their place for the pain is indescribable and the agony is unbearable. I know that they would do everything for her despite the odds. What parents would have always prayed and hoped for their children is that no harm would be upon them and that they would witness them achieve their goals. They are devastated, yes, but they are clinging to hope through their relationship with God and resolved to follow Him no matter what happens. They believe He will provide, even in this most trying situation. Even if God would not free Tin of this sickness, He would still make good of it somehow. Trust in Him, not just for people facing cancer, but for people in every situation.

GRATITUDE…

This is Mac, thanking you all for your support, kindness, and prayers during this challenging time. Your generosity will make a tangible difference in Tin’s journey towards healing. No donation is too small, and every contribution is significant. Let’s rally around Christine to show her she is not alone in this fight. FighTIN!!!

For more information, don't hesitate to reach out to Barbara at +1 (914) [phone redacted]