The “CAn Beat It” Graduation Ceremony was recently held by the I Want To Share Foundation (IWTS), a revolutionary organization devoted to supporting pediatric patients from PGH (Philippine General Hospital). This heartfelt event honored the fortitude, bravery, and victory of kids who have battled and overcome cancer. This year marked the third year that the foundation has honored young cancer survivors who have finished their chemotherapy treatments. The ceremony was held at the Manila Prince Hotel, a generous sponsor of the foundation.
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Many children in the Philippines face the difficulties of receiving cancer treatment every year. Their unwavering determination and fighting spirit shine brightly despite the challenges. Similar to a conventional graduation, the graduation ceremony offers hope to those who are still battling cancer and is a potent symbol of the bravery of these recovering patients.
150 more children who had recovered from acute lymphoblastic leukemia, brain tumors, lymphomas, osteosarcoma, retinoblastomas, and other cancer diagnoses were admitted to the ceremony in 2024. Every graduate received a certificate signifying their extraordinary accomplishment and was dressed in traditional graduation regalia.
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In addition to honoring the individual victories of young cancer survivors, “Can Beat It” also symbolizes the common optimism for a time when kids can enjoy life’s small pleasures free from the weight of disease, looking forward to an infinitely bright future.
In addition to honoring the patients’ families as pillars of strength, love, and unwavering support, Sheila Romero, Founder and Chairwoman of IWTS, said, “Through it all, you, our esteemed graduates, have remained steadfast in your determination to overcome. Your journey is a testament to the power of the human spirit.”
She continued, “We are excited to honor the incredible journey of these young cancer fighters. As they step into the next phase of their lives, it’s crucial for them to prioritize a healthy lifestyle and stay committed to their follow-up appointments.”
Romero added, “You still need to be monitored for the next decade. Many patients improve but fail to return for check-ups, making it harder to treat relapses. PGH and the upcoming Helpline by IWTS will provide assistance and support throughout the cancer patients’ journey.” Romero is a survivor of cancer herself.
IWTS hosted a charity gala the year before, raising P19 million to fund the launch of the Childhood Cancer Helpline. The goal of this initiative is to develop a navigation system for early childhood cancer detection and intervention in order to raise the nation’s cancer survival rate from 30% to at least 60%. In addition, during the gala event, funds were sought to support Pediatrics Hematology Oncology at the state-owned hospital and to create two specialized rooms at the Bone Marrow Transplant Center in PGH.
The Childhood Cancer Helpline is intended to assist the Philippines’ efforts to reduce treatment discontinuation, partial diagnosis, and delayed detection. Because of the tireless efforts of health advocates in the public and private sectors, the nation has made great progress in the last few years. Raising public awareness of childhood cancer has resulted in the creation of mobilization programs, a 30% reduction in late diagnosis, an 80% reduction in treatment abandonment, and a 30% reduction in late diagnosis. The enactment of the Universal Health Coverage (UHC) Act and the National Integrated Cancer Control Act (NICCA) in 2019 has sparked initiatives to deliver high-quality care and lessen the burden on impacted populations.
Other noteworthy initiatives undertaken by IWTS include the renovation of an additional Pediatric Cancer Wing extension and the building of a 10-bed pediatric ward at PGH for use by pediatric patients prior to surgery.
The keynote speaker for the occasion was Singaporean Ambassador Her Excellency Constance See Sin Yuan. In the future, IWTS hopes to recruit more donors, including kindhearted people from Singapore.
To conclude the graduation ceremony, the renowned singer and songwriter, Mr. Gary Valenciano, delivered a memorable performance. His uplifting songs brought joy to the young cancer fighters, as he shared his personal journey of overcoming cancer. Valenciano’s message of strength and resilience inspired everyone, reminding them that hope can be found in every circumstance.
For further information and to stay updated on the campaign, be sure to like and follow I Want to Share Foundation (@iwanttosharefoundation) on all social media channels.
