The Story
My nanay (mom), Agnes Cariño, is a loving mother of three daughters, wife to Ric Cariño, a goofy math professor, music-lover, garden-enthusiast, and much more. Agnes was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2012 and underwent a lumpectomy, radiation, a re-diagnosis, and a mastectomy over the next three years. However, in 2016, Agnes was diagnosed with stage IV metastatic breast cancer. Choosing not to pursue only chemotherapy, Agnes chose to combine chemotherapy with alternative treatments and holistic healing. This includes taking Vitamin C infusions, changing her diet, exercising more, and living life to the full.


Despite the fear and worry caused by cancer, my nanay has taken initiative with her health and is making an impact in her community. She has made new friends and connections. She has shared her experiences about healthy living to her family, her coworkers, and even random people she meets at Kroger and the local Farmer’s Market. My wonderful Nanay remains active and as energetic as ever, inspiring hope wherever she goes.


The Next Step…
Unfortunately, cancer is stubborn. In addition, my mom's insurance does not cover the full cost of this upcoming treatment, so my family needs your help. This summer, Agnes will go through an integrative cancer treatment program. It will combine conventional methods (chemotherapy) and alternative treatments (such as Vitamin C infusion) to reinforce her own healing. She will undergo continuous treatment for 4 weeks at The Center for Advanced Medicine near Atlanta, GA.

The Costs
The treatment’s overall cost is around $30,000. Though my family already has around $10,000 saved for the treatment, we need help in paying the remainder. We also need help for costs of travel and living in Atlanta for 4 weeks.

How You Can Help
·         Give a donation on GoFundMe and Share this GoFundMe with your friends

·         Send an encouraging message to Agnes on Facebook 

·         Watch and Share this homemade film  about Agnes’s story

·         Pray for healing!

Love and Gratitude
My family has already been blessed and encouraged by friends and family—from Starkville, MS to the Philippines. I am so thankful for the support we’ve already received, and I’m looking forward to seeing how God will move in this situation, in my family, and in your life. :)

Love you, Nanay!


Sincerely,
Joy Cariño

Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.     Philippians 4:6-7 | NIV