This photo is from photographer Sara Black's coffee table book and is one of my memorable photo with my father, Emer Rojas, faced with the life-changing news of stage 4 laryngeal cancer. He found his voice advocating for cancer patients through New Vois Association of the Philippines, pushing for health policy reforms. As his son, I, Einstein, could have been ensuring my father's legacy of successful entrepreneurship. Instead I took on a better lifelong journey with utmost values to continue his fight and call for stricter laws, honoring his legacy and ensuring no family, especially Filipino families, suffer needlessly from this preventable disease.
Cancer is only a word until you or your loved one is stricken by this deadly disease. Let us all contribute to this advocacy as this is something no individual can ever fight alone.
PHILIPPINES
Hope is seeing Isidora continue to advocate for cancer control, even after losing her daughter.
Meet Neecol. She became an advocate with one goal and what she wants us to know is that there is always a chance to be employed and work towards your goals in spite of having the big C. For some they might see having a livelihood sometimes is being disregarded but for Neecol I see her dedication to her career.
Working alongside Reggie, a truly humbling and patient leader, is inspiring. As a dedicated friend, Reggie constantly sacrifices to serve cervix cancer patients as the president of PGH cancer survivors organization. Individually, the challenge is immense, but we are undeniably stronger together than any obstacle.
Cancer turned her world upside down, but by joining others fighting the same battle, my friend Tess transformed her journey with cervical cancer into a powerful support system, proving that a life overturned can still be a life redefined.