A Lifesaving Gift: The Medical City’s Adopt-a-Patient Initiative for Congenital Heart Defects | The Medical City

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A Lifesaving Gift: The Medical City’s Adopt-a-Patient Initiative for Congenital Heart Defects

By The Medical City (TMC), Ortigas | July 29, 2024

A Lifesaving Gift: The Medical City’s Adopt-a-Patient Initiative for Congenital Heart Defects

The Medical City (TMC) marked a significant milestone in its corporate social responsibility efforts through Adopt-a-Patient Program of its foundation – Akbay Ginhawa Foundations, Inc (AGFI). Two young patients from Child’s Hope of Pasig successfully underwent transcatheter PDA device closure at The Medical City.

Pasig City – On July 29, 2024, The Medical City (TMC) marked a significant milestone in its corporate social responsibility efforts through Adopt-a-Patient Program of its foundation – Akbay Ginhawa Foundations, Inc (AGFI). Two young patients from Child’s Hope of Pasig successfully underwent transcatheter PDA device closure at The Medical City. The procedure was performed by pediatric interventional cardiologists, Dr. Dexter Eugene D. Cheng and Dr. Olympia Q. Malanyaon, and pediatric cardiologist Dr. Cathleen Faye R. Lu.

Patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) is a congenital heart defect where the ductus arteriosus, a vital blood vessel in a baby's circulatory system, fails to close after birth. When left untreated, it may potentially lead to heart failure and other severe complications.

in photo from L-R: Dr. Cathleen Faye R. Lu, Dr. Olympia Q. Malanyaon, and Dr. Dexter Eugene D. Cheng

This program was made possible by Dr. Ruben G. Kasala, CEO of The Medical City Ortigas, who has a personal connection to the cause. Dr. Kasala, who was born with the same condition, sponsored the 1st surgery for Candaze Candelanza, a one-year-old girl from Pasig City. Reflecting on the program, Dr. Kasala shared, "Having been born with PDA myself, I understand the challenges and fears that come with this diagnosis. It is my privilege to give back and ensure that children like Candaze have the chance to lead healthy, fulfilling lives."

Photo: Dr. Ruben G. Kasala with the parents of Candaze Candelanza

The second surgery was funded by Mr. Andrew Baldwin “Andy” Meadows, a dedicated member of TMC’s board of directors. His sponsored patient, Clenth Paul Pumicpic, a 13-year-old boy from Pasig City, has been sickly growing up until finding the real diagnosis of his condition a few months ago.

A crucial aspect of these surgeries was the provision of the necessary medical device, generously sponsored by a member of the Rotary Club of Pasig South. Their support highlights how collaboration between medical institutions and community organizations can lead to life-changing outcomes for patients in need.

TMC and AGFI’s Adopt-a-Patient Program exemplifies the power of compassion and corporate social responsibility. By providing life-saving surgeries to children in need, TMC is not only transforming individual lives but also inspiring a culture of paying it forward.

Looking ahead, The Medical City aims to expand its Adopt-a-Patient Program, reaching more children with PDA and other congenital conditions. This initiative is a call to action for other corporations, medical professionals, and community members to get involved and make a tangible difference in the lives of those in need. If you would like to donate or adopt a patient dealing with PDA, please contact Akbay Ginhawa Foundations, Inc. through adoptapatientprogram@gmail.com or 89881000 ext. 3359 or 3144.

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