Thank you for taking the time to read our story and for your willingness to support our family in this painful season. I am raising funds for my younger sister, Miriam Bongolan (37), who has recently been diagnosed with stage 4 cancer in her colon.

Miriam has insurance through her mission organization, but there are many expenses that will not be covered—including the possibility of needing to transfer to the United States for care.

Miriam and her husband, EJ, are missionaries in the Philippines. They have six children: David (2), Joey (5), Joanie (8), Ruthie (9), Jane (with Jesus), Rosemin and Jasper. Miriam and EJ’s ministry includes managing a Christian conference center, being part of a church-planting team, and leading trauma and abuse healing ministries. Their lives are poured out daily in service to others, and now they are facing a battle that requires the support of a wider community.

Miriam and family just completed 3 months of home-assignment in the United States where they visited churches, friends, family and joined a mission organization called Action. While Miriam was not well during this time, symptoms aligned with her regular health concerns and the general exhaustion from travel. Her stomach was in a lot of pain last week and she thought she was having appendicitis but was able to fly. After landing in Manila, she immediately went to the hospital. After many tests, she received this diagnosis.

We are asking for your prayers and your partnership—for Miriam’s complete healing on this side of heaven, for strength for her family, and for provision for every need.

Thank you for praying with us, and for helping lift this burden during this difficult time