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This is the life story of Gaia Bianca Pasamba, our daughter, who was diagnosed with Biliary Atresia when she was only 2 ½ months old. This is a congenital disease whose only treatment is a life-saving Liver Transplant. At that time, liver transplant was not yet done in the Philippines. The cost to bring her overseas was too huge for our family to shoulder on our own. God touched so many kind hearts, and on April 8, 2006 she received her “Gift of Life”. She had her transplant done at Gleneagles Hospital in Singapore.
The doctors told us that the battle is not over even if she had the transplant. She will face many challenges due to her being immune-compromised. Her recovery was like a roller coaster ride. There were good days and bad days. Through it all, Gaia continued to show spunk and defy expectations even of her doctors. But nothing would have prepared us to this new stage of Gaia’s life.
“Gaia has cancer.” We cannot fully express the pain and utter helplessness we felt as parents when the doctor uttered these life changing words. Our family is still trying to come to terms with this news and is going through different stages of shock, sadness and acceptance.
Gaia has survived two major medical issues in just two years. We are aware that this new battle has no definite outcome. No one can predict how she will respond to treatment. A few have even asked why we continue to fight it out amidst all the challenges that she’s been through. But time and time again, she has pulled through. She continues to amaze even her foreign doctors. Her strong spirit and sweet smile has always given us strength and inspiration. We strongly believe that Gaia has a special purpose in life and deserves the chance to fulfill her destiny.
Throughout Gaia’s battles, we have been blessed to have family, friends both old and new as well as kind strangers who rallied behind us. Our family is fervently asking for your prayers. Although she is being cared for by the best doctors, we know that God is the ultimate healer. We pray that God’s healing hands will guide the doctors and perform another miracle.
Due to the extensive medical bills we incurred for previous monthly medical needs and recent procedures, we were informed by the insurance company that we have exhausted her insurance limit. Thus, we need to find alternative sources of funding to continue her medical care. Once again, we humbly approach you for any form of support you could extend our darling baby. Gaia’s bank account remains active for those who would like to send financial support. For the donation options including quick and easy-to-use via Paypal, simply click on the PayPal button. We would also appreciate referrals to support groups and foundations.
She has started her Chemo Therapy at St. Lukes Medical Center. Should you wish to send your financial support directly to the hospital, you may do so. Details can be found in the “donate” page.
Should you wish to personally get in touch with us, our contact number is: 0917-5453312. Email Address: pasamba_ybeth@yahoo.com
Our family will forever be grateful to all of you who continue to be part of Gaia’s life journey.
Sincerely,
Giorde & Ybeth
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