A Heartwarming Christmas Story: 142 Lives Transformed by Free Surgeries
Let’s talk about Christmas miracles. Not the kind you see in holiday movies, but real-life acts of generosity that remind us what the season is truly about. Imagine this: 142 Negrosanons went home this December with brighter futures, thanks to life-changing surgeries: no hefty medical bills, no worries, just pure hope, and healing.
It all went down at the Valladolid District Hospital in Negros Occidental, where Negros Electric and Power Corp. (Negros Power) teamed up with the World Surgical Mission Foundation Philippines. Together, they pulled off a five-day surgical mission from December 9th to 13th, giving 142 patients the free gift of health.
Turning a District Hospital Into a Haven of Healing
A bustling district hospital transformed into a place of relief and joy, packed with 52 selfless medical professionals. These heroes didn’t just clock in; they gave them all to ensure each patient received the care they deserved. From thyroid issues to gallstones and goiters, every surgery performed was a step toward a better life.
Kristelle Pascual, Executive Director of the World Surgical Foundation Philippines, summed it up perfectly:
“It’s heartwarming to see so many people come together to help those in need. Negros Power has truly embraced our mission to bring healing and hope to communities across the Philippines.”
Talk about the spirit of Christmas in action!
Real Stories, Real Impact
Want to know how life-changing this mission was? Meet some of the beneficiaries who experienced it firsthand:
Edward Maliguian Thyroid Surgery (San Enrique)
“Salamat sa Negros Power nga nag sponsor sa amon nga na operahan kami. Kabay nga ang ginoo makapamayo sa inyo kag madamo pa gid nga mga tawo ang mabuligan niyo.”
Edward had been living with thyroid issues that disrupted his life. Thanks to the surgical mission, he’s now free from pain and full of gratitude.
Rachel Estrevella Gallstone Surgery (Murcia)
“Okay na subong, makakaon na. Nanligad kada sulod sang kan-on gasakit pero subong tani inde na kay okay na pamatyagan ko.”
Rachel can now enjoy food without the constant pain caused by gallstones. Her recovery is a testament to how medical missions like this can transform lives.
Elsie Espante Goiter Surgery
“Nalipay ako nga may free kay waay gid kami may mahimo kay pigado kami.”
This surgery was a blessing for Elsie, a senior citizen with limited means. She can now move forward without her goiter holding her back.
Sharon Sogdon Goiter Surgery (Guardian: Aiza Abeso, Don Salvador Benedicto)
“Kaluy-an okay na gid. Una sa tanan naga pasalamat ko sa Ginoo kay may gin gamit siya nga mga tawo nga makabulig pa gid sa mga naga kinahanglan.”
Sharon’s story proves that even when you feel hopeless, the right people can step in and make a difference.
A Christmas to Remember
The smiles on the patients’ faces as they left the hospital said it all. They weren’t just walking out with healed bodies. They had renewed spirits and brighter futures.
This mission wasn’t just about surgeries but about showing compassion, building connections, and proving that a community’s collective effort can work wonders. This act of kindness, a joint effort between Negros Power and the World Surgical Foundation Philippines, along with other generous donors namely GT Hotel, Province of Negros Occidental thru the office of Vice Governor Jeffrey Ferrer, Green Core Geothermal Inc, GMA Kapuso Foundation, Almana Group, Todo Media, Baya Construction, GPA Designs & Lightings, Five Sierra Condo Rental, Rolling Hills Memorial Chapels, Dunkin Donuts, Mcdonalds, One Home Solutions, Unikel Enterprises, Malbos Asian Restaurant, Tiumai Dimsum, Pollen Bee Catering, Sioyu Dimsum and Food Trading, JD Bakery and Cafe, Kenby Construction, KGY Empire OPC, Coca Cola, Bong Bongs Pasalubong, Margies, Chateau, Road Runner Car Rental, JCube Car Rental, Kmart Bacolod, MDY Ads and Designs, Rizal Commercial Banking Corporation, and Nature’s Spring, serve as an inspiration, a beacon of hope for those in need, and a testament to the power of giving back to the community.
And let’s not forget the timing of Christmas! A season that reminds us to give more, love more, and hope more. The surgical mission in Valladolid embodied all these values, leaving a legacy of kindness and generosity.
A Shoutout to the Heroes
None of this would’ve been possible without the incredible partnership between Negros Power and the World Surgical Mission Foundation. From doctors and nurses to volunteers, everyone poured their hearts into making this mission a success. Their work not only eased physical pain but also restored faith in the power of humanity.
So here’s to the unsung heroes who gave 142 people the best Christmas gift ever: a second chance at life.
Let this story inspire us all to share what we can help those in need and make every day, even beyond the holidays, feel like a miracle waiting to happen.
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