By Albert Santoli | Project Leader
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
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