Tita Tess’ Medical Expenses

Hi, my name is Joy and I'm from the Philippines. I, together with my friends, have been working on ways to raise some funds to help the mother of our very dear friend, Japheth Espia.

Tita Tess, 62 years old, is suffering from diabetes, hypertension, kidney disease, and osteoporosis which prevents her from walking independently. Last month, February 2020, Tita Tess was hospitalized due to a fall accident at home which led to a leg injury. Due to complications, she had to stay in the hospital for 4 days. Their total bill then amounted to PHP 81,000.00 (1,600 USD) which could no longer be covered by Tita Tess' health insurance plan as it was used up from previous hospitalizations and will only refresh this month, March 2020. Furthermore, her health insurance plan does not cover pre-existing health conditions such as those mentioned above. With the help of our friends, from our very own pockets, we were able to collect PHP 26,500.00 (520 USD). Also, with PhilHealth's (government-owned health insurance) assistance and as part of Tita Tess' senior citizen's benefits, they got a discount of PHP 17,000.00 (330 USD).

Unfortunately, after her check up, days after her discharge from the hospital, the doctor advised for Tita Tess to be admitted again as her wound infection has worsen and the antibiotics she was taking were not enough to stop it from spreading. If not prevented as soon as possible, the doctor feared that her leg might need amputation.

Tita Tess is now confined with 3 doctors checking on her kidney, diabetes, and a surgeon for her leg. Aside from hospital expenses, they are also paying for Tita Tess' maintenance medicines, insulin, and dialysis which is thrice a week.

As part of our fundraising activities, we are now running an online "garage sale" where we are selling some pre-loved books to our friends in Facebook. However we know that this will not be enough and that is why I am here, reaching out to you, asking for your prayers and some financial help. Any amount you can give will be a big help to us. Thank you and may you have a blessed day!