Healing grows in connection, shared smiles, music and dance.
In a cancer journey, the 5th year after treatment is often celebrated as a hopeful milestone of survival, progress and strength. RAFI, through its cancer care program, Eduardo J. Aboitiz Cancer Center (EJACC) celebrates honors this milestone with its 2021 beneficiaries as they transition to life beyond the program.
The event called “Hope and Healing at Chrismas” honors the journey of the cancer survivors enrolled in the EJACC program. Through movement, hugs, and shared smiles, each participant entered a space where they could reflect and celebrate their strength, resilience, and healing with fellow survivors.
Fr. Loreto A. Jaque led the group through activities that fostered belonging. The session affirmed that each survivor stands within a community that understands the weight of the cancer journey.
For Raquel Torrevillas, the power of positivity and the strength she drew from her family kept her moving through her cancer journey.
“With the help of RAFI, nahuman ko sa akong 8-cycle treatment. Gitan-aw rag yod nako ang positive side sa kung nganong na cancer ko para makasurvive. Tungod sa akong cancer, nanaghan akong friends. Gihatag ni sa Ginoo sa ako kay nahimo kong inspiration sa uban. Daghan kog na convince nga magpatambal, kay mabuhi ra gyod ka,” Raquel shared.
She shared how the program supported her through the hardest days. The help went beyond finances and treatment. Group activities gave her connection and comfort. She learned that cancer is heavy, but healing becomes possible when others walk the journey with you.
A New Chapter
The close-out activity marked an ending but also opened a new beginning. Survivors were given the opportunity to relate to other groups. They discovered cancer communities that continue to nurture healing, friendship, and purpose.
RAFI continues to advocate for early detection. The program hopes each survivor becomes a beacon of hope and a voice for awareness.
RAFI Chief Operating Officer Riella Mae Guioguio reminded participants of this shared mission:
“In RAFI, we believe early detection saves lives. The stories shared today show how you, our ambassadors and advocates will continue to grow together with RAFI. A cancer diagnosis is not the end of life. RAFI stands with patients and survivors, alongside their families, every step of the way.”
RAFI, as an Architect of Change, believes in the strength of community. Each survivor now carries the tatak cancer advocate. This mark symbolizes courage, resilience, and the power to inspire others.
Their stories remind us that hope can return. Healing can continue. Every day becomes a gift worth celebrating. Their journey lives on. Their strength lights the way for many.
