Saving Jhai-Jhai

Meet Jhai, a fighter whose courage has carried her through the most difficult challenges life has thrown her way. Despite her unwavering determination, Jhai now faces a crisis that threatens her health and needs your support to live the life she deserves.

My name is Angeli, and I am lucky to be Jhai’s friend. Our paths crossed two years ago, during a time when both of us suffered from emotional distress and failed relationships. Like what they say, misery loves company lol! Little did I know, this encounter would evolve into a friendship I would most treasure.

Back then, Jhai was already battling breast cancer, a diagnosis she had received in 2015, where I witnessed her cope with sleepless nights by praying until dawn. Her courage was never shaken though. Her optimism and kindness endeared her not only to me but to everyone fortunate enough to know her. She also decided to dedicate

herself to her faith and serving others by becoming a full-time missionary in our church.

Jhai’s treatment was going well. She received medical maintenance and handled the financial aspects of her treatment with the help of many people: her savings came in handy, and, most helpful of all, her parents, with their unwavering support, shouldered the rest of her financial needs through their business in the dry markets of Danao. Despite her illness, she strived to work to lighten the load her parents carried. Fortunately, her lab results improved!

However, tragedy struck last June 2022 when a fire ravaged the Danao City Public Market including Jhai's family's livelihood. Her parents' main income source was in trouble, leaving them burdened not only with Jhai's ongoing treatment but also with the responsibility of supporting her two siblings' college education. As the eldest child, she could not bear to witness her family struggle further. Her selflessness made her decide to temporarily sacrifice her own treatment to help out her family.

Regrettably, five months later that year, Jhai began experiencing excruciating pain, frequent nosebleeds, and sleeplessness. A medical checkup revealed devastating news: a tumor had formed in her brain, likely a result of the metastasis of her breast cancer. Her doctor urgently recommended radiation treatment, alongside a battery of tests including three CT scans, two MRIs, an operation to remove her swollen lymph nodes and another upcoming biopsy. The situation requires much attention, however, Jhai was concerned that the financial expenses of her worsening condition would weigh down her parents even more.

Jhai has always been a fighter. Yet, there are times when things become overwhelming,

especially when it involves witnessing the struggles of one’s parents. The pain she endures now extends beyond the physical aspect—it has taken a toll on her emotional and mental well-being too. She may feel like losing, but her family will never give up on her either. In fact, I have witnessed the dedication and kindness of her family firsthand. I have seen her mother purchase medicines for another mother battling cancer, all while paying for Jhai's treatment. You see, Jhai's family has always helped whenever they can but, this time, it is them in need of people's support.

As Jhai's friend, I humbly ask anyone who comes across her story to extend a helping hand. At this moment, she is battling Stage 4 breast cancer and is in dire need of medical assistance. I appeal to anyone compassionate enough to donate any amount they can. Every contribution, big or small, will make a significant impact on Jhai's treatment. Any extra funds will be directed towards additional expenses and, if possible, will lessen the burden of her parents' debts.

Jhai is an optimistic, courageous, funny, and hopeful woman. How I wish more people would witness her journey and draw inspiration from her life—and for this to happen, we are relying on your willingness to help. Hence, please help us save not only my dearest friend but my sister in every sense of the word. Help us save a daughter, a sibling, a friend, and an overall incredible woman to make her live the life she deserves.

Please help us save Jhai.