Cancer treatment for 20 children and 30 women

In June 2021, our Little Princess Brielle celebrated her 8th Birthday surrounded by her loving family, including her younger brother "Spider Man."  Their  "Super Heroes" are the kind contributors from around the world who answered the urgent appeal by Asia America Initiative and provided much of the funding needed for  successful liver transplant surgery. When Asia America Initiative and our wonderful donors adopted then-3 year old Brielle, she was not expected to live to see her 4th Birthday. There were no qualified specialists or pediatric surgical facilities in the Philippines that could provide the liver transplant and special medicines required for her survival. She would need to travel to a special care facility in Taiwan and needed a liver transpant donor on short notice who could provide perfect match.  With three months left in her survival period, time was running out.  

It's been 5 years since funds were raised to replace her liver, donated by her mother who finished her medical school studies after they both recovered and is now a practicing medical doctor. At the time, Asia America Initiative was asked by some of our medical advisors, "Why are you putting so much time and resources into this one almost impossible case, when so many other children in our assistance program are in need?"  My response was very simple,. As an "end stage" cancer survivor just a few years previously, still feeling the pain from that major surgery, I believe this child can survive."

A generous pharmaceutical company in the United States provided the specialized medicines free of charge. And our GlobalGiving donors and a US-based family trust foundation made sure we could help cover the costs of travel, hospital bills and other fees.  Thanks to you all, we did keep faith with other children on our care list.  AAI supports children receiving treatment by supplementing nutrition to aid for full recovery, boosting their morale with gifts and nutritional support to increase their lifespan. Books and educational materials are supplied to give hope for the future. This is especially important for young children who need care and love to know, "You are not alone." Our art programs conducted in hospital facilities build a joyful attitude to embrace life and enhance their healing process.

This program is an international model of donor kindness and corporate social responsibility. By surviving and experiencing hope, the multi-ethnic children inspire their neighbors who usually live in underserved communities. For children living in dire poverty, the influence of violent crime and militant extremism is a constant reality. This holistic program empowers entire communities to have hope and to resist the dark paths caused by despair. Yes, "every life does matter," and it is possible to succeed against all odds when our love, faith and the supporting kindness of people like you is strong. .

Links:

• Asia America Initiative Website