A Mother’s Plea for Help with Zeb’s Medical Operation

I am writing to share my son Zeb’s medical journey and humbly ask for your support during this challenging time.

Zeb, who is now 12 years old, has been diagnosed with Pectus Carinatum, also known as Pigeon Chest. From the moment he was born, we noticed an unevenness in his chest, but doctors assured us it was normal and there was no need to panic. As he grew older, the irregular growth of his chest became more apparent.

When we consulted an orthopedic doctor during Zeb’s early years, x-rays showed no concerning results, and we were advised that everything was fine. In 2023, during a routine checkup, another orthopedic doctor attributed his chest growth to mild thoracolumbar levoscoliosis. We took proactive steps by enrolling him in swimming classes, which are beneficial for scoliosis, and monitored his condition with annual checkups.

However, during a checkup in 2024, a new orthopedic doctor expressed concern that the chest growth was unrelated to his scoliosis. Additional tests, including x-rays and a CT scan, revealed soft tissues in his chest. A pediatric oncologist was consulted to rule out the possibility of cancer. Thankfully, tests showed no cancer cells or tumors. Instead, Zeb was diagnosed with TB, which we believed was the cause of his chest issues. He began a year-long course of medication.

Four months into the treatment, however, there was no improvement, and his chest continued to grow. As a worried mother, I sought a third opinion from another orthopedic doctor, who confirmed that this was not an orthopedic issue but rather a thoracic case.

Upon consulting a thoracic specialist, we finally received a definitive diagnosis of Pectus Carinatum. The specialist explained the condition and recommended surgery as the only solution. The estimated cost is ₱250,000–₱300,000, excluding the cost of the implants.

As a single mother, I work hard to provide for Zeb’s daily needs, but I cannot afford the expenses required for his surgery. I am reaching out with a humble heart to ask for your kindness and generosity to help us raise the funds for Zeb’s operation.

Any amount you can spare would mean the world to us and bring us one step closer to giving Zeb a chance at a healthier life. Your support and prayers during this time are deeply appreciated.

Thank you for taking the time to read our story. May your kindness be returned to you a hundredfold.

Warm regards,

April Cortes