Cancer treatment for 20 children and 30 women

Dear Friends,

On August 30, 2025, Asia America Initiative and our volunteer partners from The One World Institute began a series of healing parties for children undergoing cancer treatment at the House of Hope in Davao, Philippines. These offspring of impoverished farm workers -- of all ages -- are showing signs of rare cancers.  Herbicides and pesticides sprayed on agricultural crops are suspected of causing illness. 

What is new this fall, at the request of AAI, OWI, and parents: AAI volunteers and House of Hope staff will be adding gardens on the hospital grounds to promote proper organic nutrition. In addition, treating the children to a day of happiness, with snacks, toys, books, dancing, and play, is meaningful. "They can feel like healthy children for the day," says hospital director Dr. Mae," and feel the friendship and hear the laughter of other child patients."

The only chance the children have for survival is at the House of Hope, where they can get treatment for no cost by quality oncology doctors.  Because of your support, we are able to give parties that help children receiving treatment for cancer cope with trauma. We provide toys, educational materials, coloring books, and a meal throughout the year. The children can spend time with their family, who can stay with them for no cost, and get to know other children and the hospital staff in a much more relaxed way. 

Some of our partners provide medication free of charge to children fighting cancer. This complements the mission of nutritional and educational support. We especially try to instill a sense of a happy life through our toy giving. This is especially important for young children who need care and guidance. In addition, older children and teenagers benefit from our related artistic programs. Often, these children, whose parents are largely farm laborers, have never had a toy of their own. The cuddly stuffed animals become a source of comfort and support as they undergo their medical treatments.

If you would like to add to your healing gift for children receiving treatment or begin monthly support, please follow the link below.

Cancer treatment for 20 children and 30 women

Wishing you peace,

Albert Santoli

Director, Asia America Initiative

Links:

• Asia America Website

Dear Friends,

This year, Asia America Initiative and our partners have built bamboo and thatch Nipa Huts on the grounds of the Southern Mindanao Medical Center at the House of Hope in Davao, Philippines for the families of children receiving cancer treatment. 

These unique Nipa Huts are traditional dwellings that use natural materials and provide bed space, eating tables, seating and comfort to impoverished families whose children are incancer treatment programs.  Rather than lining up in hallways and waiting rooms within the building their privacy and dignity is respected. Parents still feel the pain for their afflicted child, but now the families will have a humane and comfortable place to stay. 

The cancer center is located at the Southern Mindanao Medical Center in the heart of Davao in the conflict-plagued Mindanao region. It is the only such hospital is that  provides life-saving treatment for children free of charge in a population of 25 million in the southern Philippines.  Since 2016, AAI has provided funding to support the healing of more than 300 cancer patients.  This would not be possible without our GlobalGiving donors.

AAI's Executive Director is himself a cancer survivor.  Our goal is to provide each child at House of Hope with a toy and a book as they arrive at the hospital each day. With our on-site partners, we understand the integrated psychology in healing and the benefits of a child feeling loved. 

House of Hope Director, oncology specialist "Doc May" says, "A cuddly stuffed animal is a friend who can be a constant companion as they undergo treatment.  This creates an outlet for a child to express their fears, share their strength and to feel loved in a more hopeful and comforting world. Also, we create fun activities for the entire family with art and coloring books." 

Thank you for all you have done for these children during their time of crisis. Also, if you are interested in adding to your healing gift for children receiving treatment or beginning monthly support, please follow the link:

Cancer treatment for 20 children and 30 women

You kindness is much appreciated,

Albert Santoli,

Director, Asia America Initiative

Links:

• AAI Website