Absence of truthful information is a patient's worst nightmare!
1. Breast cancer won't be fatal for as long as it stays restricted to one's breast - a non-vital organ. Only when the cancer spreads (metastasizes) to a life-sustaining organ (lungs, liver or brain) does the cancer become life-threatening.
2. Breast cancer takes many forms and affects each woman differently. Some cancer will never spread beyond the breast or metastasize to vital organs and some will. However, patients more than often receive full and similar treatments no matter what type their individual cancer is.
3. At the time of diagnosis, it can not be determined with certainty whether or not one's breast cancer will be life-threatening. It is next to impossible to know who will benefit from surgery, chemotherapy and radiation and who will not - leaving patients with more questions than answers about their treatment options.
4. Many cases of breast cancer after surgery do not require chemotherapy and radiation. Reducing the risk of recurrence or metastasis can be achieved through non-toxic means. In fact, chemotherapy can cause damage to healthy cells which triggers them to secrete a protein that sustains tumour growth and resistance to further treatment
Following are cases to help you to learn from the experiences of others that you may find basis for your treatment options:
2. Breast cancer takes many forms and affects each woman differently. Some cancer will never spread beyond the breast or metastasize to vital organs and some will. However, patients more than often receive full and similar treatments no matter what type their individual cancer is.
3. At the time of diagnosis, it can not be determined with certainty whether or not one's breast cancer will be life-threatening. It is next to impossible to know who will benefit from surgery, chemotherapy and radiation and who will not - leaving patients with more questions than answers about their treatment options.
4. Many cases of breast cancer after surgery do not require chemotherapy and radiation. Reducing the risk of recurrence or metastasis can be achieved through non-toxic means. In fact, chemotherapy can cause damage to healthy cells which triggers them to secrete a protein that sustains tumour growth and resistance to further treatment
Following are cases to help you to learn from the experiences of others that you may find basis for your treatment options:
Early Intervention
A suspicious breast abnormality that may be seen with thermal breast imaging.
This is reason enough to intervene, not waiting for a malignant diagnosis before action is taken.
Norie G. Aguilo - Abnormal thermal breast imaging at age 26
Born on 4 August 1977 in Manila, her menarche was at age 13. Norie noticed a lump on her left breast at age 23. Not wanting any invasive means of breast screening, she underwent a thermal imaging of her breasts two years later, which showed an abnormal pattern on the supero-lateral aspect of her left breast. By pursuing non-toxic and non-surgical interventions, she is very hopeful in preserving her breasts and living a life of vitality and wellness.
Born on 4 August 1977 in Manila, her menarche was at age 13. Norie noticed a lump on her left breast at age 23. Not wanting any invasive means of breast screening, she underwent a thermal imaging of her breasts two years later, which showed an abnormal pattern on the supero-lateral aspect of her left breast. By pursuing non-toxic and non-surgical interventions, she is very hopeful in preserving her breasts and living a life of vitality and wellness.
Placida C. Babao - Abnormal thermal breast imaging at age 63
Born on 5 October 1940 in Batangas City, her menarche was at age 13. She was prescribed HRT at age 53 for her menopause and 1o years later noticed a lump in her right breast with pain on her left breast. A widow with 5 children, she underwent thermal breast imaging which saw an abnormal right breast. She then went to the PBCN and months later, did a repeat thermal which now showed both her breasts to be normal.
Born on 5 October 1940 in Batangas City, her menarche was at age 13. She was prescribed HRT at age 53 for her menopause and 1o years later noticed a lump in her right breast with pain on her left breast. A widow with 5 children, she underwent thermal breast imaging which saw an abnormal right breast. She then went to the PBCN and months later, did a repeat thermal which now showed both her breasts to be normal.
Renie T. Balaquio - Abnormal thermal breast imaging at age 42
Born on 23 January 1962 in Calumpit, Bulacan, her menarche was at age 13. With a college degree in Library Science, Nini has been working since graduation for non-government organizations. She gave birth to two children before becoming a young widow. At age 38, she already felt a lump on her left breast but paid little attention to it, thinking it was nothing. Five years later, there was a lump on her right breast. This time, she underwent an ultrasound but the findings were negative. A year later, she underwent thermal imaging, which showed a normal right breast but an abnormal pattern on her left breast. This prompted her to address her case with non-toxic and non-invasive measures starting with a detox protocol.
Born on 23 January 1962 in Calumpit, Bulacan, her menarche was at age 13. With a college degree in Library Science, Nini has been working since graduation for non-government organizations. She gave birth to two children before becoming a young widow. At age 38, she already felt a lump on her left breast but paid little attention to it, thinking it was nothing. Five years later, there was a lump on her right breast. This time, she underwent an ultrasound but the findings were negative. A year later, she underwent thermal imaging, which showed a normal right breast but an abnormal pattern on her left breast. This prompted her to address her case with non-toxic and non-invasive measures starting with a detox protocol.
Marivic N. Belleza - Abnormal thermal breast imaging at age 43
Born on 1 February 1962 in Tigbauan, Iloilo, her menarche was at age 14. A Bachelor of Laws graduate, Marivic now resides in Bacolod City and works as the Finance Officer of a construction company. At age 42, she felt lumps in her right armpit. She underwent thermal imaging in March 2006, which showed an abnormal pattern on her right breast. She underwent a non-toxic and non-invasive regimen and thereafter pursued a vegetarian diet. Two years later, a repeat thermal imaging now showed her right breast to have a normal pattern. She was a participant of Project BRCA 6 in August 2004.
Born on 1 February 1962 in Tigbauan, Iloilo, her menarche was at age 14. A Bachelor of Laws graduate, Marivic now resides in Bacolod City and works as the Finance Officer of a construction company. At age 42, she felt lumps in her right armpit. She underwent thermal imaging in March 2006, which showed an abnormal pattern on her right breast. She underwent a non-toxic and non-invasive regimen and thereafter pursued a vegetarian diet. Two years later, a repeat thermal imaging now showed her right breast to have a normal pattern. She was a participant of Project BRCA 6 in August 2004.
Annaliza G. Café - Abnormal thermal breast imaging at age 25
Born on 2 Feb 1975 in Sierra Bullones, Bohol her menarche was at age 10. Annaliza was an elementary school teacher while residing in a convent. Living near rice fields, her father was in the business of fertilizers and pesticides, using their home to stock them. As early as age 23, she already felt lumps on both her breasts. Their mother had died of breast cancer and this prompted seminarian brother sought out options to conventional medicine. Though being the eldest in a brood of four, she was the only female and her younger brothers wanted to take very good care of her. At age 25, her thermal imaging showed abnormal patterns on both of her breasts. She immediately underwent a rigid non-toxic and non-invasive regimen in her home in Bohol. A repeat thermal imaging 15 months later showed that her left breast now had normal patterns while right breast remained abnormal. Two years later, she went to Tiaong Breast Haven and has since pursued nutritional measures in addressing her situation. She was a participant of Project BRCA 5 on May 2004.
Born on 2 Feb 1975 in Sierra Bullones, Bohol her menarche was at age 10. Annaliza was an elementary school teacher while residing in a convent. Living near rice fields, her father was in the business of fertilizers and pesticides, using their home to stock them. As early as age 23, she already felt lumps on both her breasts. Their mother had died of breast cancer and this prompted seminarian brother sought out options to conventional medicine. Though being the eldest in a brood of four, she was the only female and her younger brothers wanted to take very good care of her. At age 25, her thermal imaging showed abnormal patterns on both of her breasts. She immediately underwent a rigid non-toxic and non-invasive regimen in her home in Bohol. A repeat thermal imaging 15 months later showed that her left breast now had normal patterns while right breast remained abnormal. Two years later, she went to Tiaong Breast Haven and has since pursued nutritional measures in addressing her situation. She was a participant of Project BRCA 5 on May 2004.
Rosalie F. Cambal - Abnormal thermal breast imaging at age 18
Born in Sampaloc, Quezon in 1987, she always had enormously large breasts since high school. Six months before turning 18, she noticed a lump and skin changes on her left breast. Four months after her birthday, her alarmed mother made her undergo a thermal imaging which showed a severely abnormal pattern on the inferior aspect of her left breast. Rosalie has been pursuing non-toxic and non-invasive measures in confronting her breast disorder.
Born in Sampaloc, Quezon in 1987, she always had enormously large breasts since high school. Six months before turning 18, she noticed a lump and skin changes on her left breast. Four months after her birthday, her alarmed mother made her undergo a thermal imaging which showed a severely abnormal pattern on the inferior aspect of her left breast. Rosalie has been pursuing non-toxic and non-invasive measures in confronting her breast disorder.
Leilani G. Cambiado - Abnormal thermal breast imaging at age 22
Born on 29 November 1980 in Pili, Camarines Sur, her menarche was at age 11. A college graduate in mass communications, Lani worked as a personnel assistant in a company in Metro Manila. She first noticed a lump and discharge on her right breast 5 months befpore her 22nd birtyhday. An ultrasound done showed normal results. However, a thermal imaging done three months later showed an abnormal pattern on her right breast.
Born on 29 November 1980 in Pili, Camarines Sur, her menarche was at age 11. A college graduate in mass communications, Lani worked as a personnel assistant in a company in Metro Manila. She first noticed a lump and discharge on her right breast 5 months befpore her 22nd birtyhday. An ultrasound done showed normal results. However, a thermal imaging done three months later showed an abnormal pattern on her right breast.
Ma. Cristina M. Cristobal - Abnormal thermal breast imaging at age 31
Born on 5 April 1970 in Cebu City, her menarche was at age 12. With a college degree on community nutrition, Ging worked as the executive director of a non-government organization. At age 31, she was diagnosed with endometriosis and made to take oral contraceptives to normalize her menstruation. She experienced pain on her breasts at the 4th month and stopped after 6 months. A clinical breast exam saw lumps on both breasts. She then had a mammogram and was told that her lumps were of the fibrocystic type. Wanting to know of her condition a year later, she undertook a thermal imaging, which showed normal patterns on both her breasts. Nevertheless, she has pursuing natural measures to prevent having breast cancer.
Born on 5 April 1970 in Cebu City, her menarche was at age 12. With a college degree on community nutrition, Ging worked as the executive director of a non-government organization. At age 31, she was diagnosed with endometriosis and made to take oral contraceptives to normalize her menstruation. She experienced pain on her breasts at the 4th month and stopped after 6 months. A clinical breast exam saw lumps on both breasts. She then had a mammogram and was told that her lumps were of the fibrocystic type. Wanting to know of her condition a year later, she undertook a thermal imaging, which showed normal patterns on both her breasts. Nevertheless, she has pursuing natural measures to prevent having breast cancer.
Bernardita G. De Jesus - hormonal reproductive concerns
Born 07 October 1947 in Malabon M.M., Bernie’s menarche was at age 13. With an MBA degree and her last work as Operations Head of a computer data center, she opted for early retirement. She first gave birth at age 26 and less than a year later gave birth to her second child. This prompted her to take pills continuously for the next 6 years. But when she stopped because she wanted to have a 3rd child, she experienced tremendous reproductive problems in the next seven years: prolonged bleeding upon menstruation; several blighted ovum, five D&C’s and a miscarriage in1987 before she had a successful pregnancy at age 39 and gave birth in 1988. Sadly, her infant daughter died 18 months later. She opted for a detoxification to prevent affliction with breast cancer.
Born 07 October 1947 in Malabon M.M., Bernie’s menarche was at age 13. With an MBA degree and her last work as Operations Head of a computer data center, she opted for early retirement. She first gave birth at age 26 and less than a year later gave birth to her second child. This prompted her to take pills continuously for the next 6 years. But when she stopped because she wanted to have a 3rd child, she experienced tremendous reproductive problems in the next seven years: prolonged bleeding upon menstruation; several blighted ovum, five D&C’s and a miscarriage in1987 before she had a successful pregnancy at age 39 and gave birth in 1988. Sadly, her infant daughter died 18 months later. She opted for a detoxification to prevent affliction with breast cancer.
Jovelita M. Dollaga - Abnormal thermal breast imaging at age 35
Born on 28 July 1965, her menarche was at age 14. Since graduation from college, Jovie has been working for non-government organizations. She gave birth to her only child at age 27. At age 35, she felt pain in her right breast. She did not pay much attention till three years later when she felt pain on both her breasts. A thermal imaging done showed an abnormal pattern on her right breast.
Born on 28 July 1965, her menarche was at age 14. Since graduation from college, Jovie has been working for non-government organizations. She gave birth to her only child at age 27. At age 35, she felt pain in her right breast. She did not pay much attention till three years later when she felt pain on both her breasts. A thermal imaging done showed an abnormal pattern on her right breast.
Zenaida L. Dulay - Abnormal thermal breast imaging at age 42
Born on 23 August 1964 in Pamubuan, Northern Samar, Zeny was only able to finish High School. She gave birth to 3 children in 1987, 1988 and 1991. While operating a canteen, she first noticed a lump on her left breast first noticed in 2003. She was asked to undergo a biopsy but instead opted to take several alternative supplements. Upon taking contact with the PBCN, she underwent Thermal Breast Imaging in Feb 2007 which showed an abnormal right breast. After undergoing the protocol, she has since pursued non-toxic and non-invasive regimens.
Born on 23 August 1964 in Pamubuan, Northern Samar, Zeny was only able to finish High School. She gave birth to 3 children in 1987, 1988 and 1991. While operating a canteen, she first noticed a lump on her left breast first noticed in 2003. She was asked to undergo a biopsy but instead opted to take several alternative supplements. Upon taking contact with the PBCN, she underwent Thermal Breast Imaging in Feb 2007 which showed an abnormal right breast. After undergoing the protocol, she has since pursued non-toxic and non-invasive regimens.
Maria Victoria M. Garcia - Abnormal thermal breast imaging at age 30
Born on 26 April 1976 in Cabiao, Nueva Ecija, her menarche was at age 17. An OFW in Japan, she first gave birth at age 21 and took birth control pills thereafter. She has learned to address her breast health after having undergone the detox protocol at Tiaong Breast Haven.
Born on 26 April 1976 in Cabiao, Nueva Ecija, her menarche was at age 17. An OFW in Japan, she first gave birth at age 21 and took birth control pills thereafter. She has learned to address her breast health after having undergone the detox protocol at Tiaong Breast Haven.
Rosalie Fiel Gerarcas - Abnormal thermal breast imaging at age 34
Born 17 August 1975 in Culaba, Biliran and her menarche was at age 13. She lived in Bagong Barrio, Caloocan City (a highly polluted industrial environment) for 28 years before relocating to Imus Cavite in 2008. Sally started working as a casual employee in different companies since she was 19 years old and her first childbirth was at age 26 by caesarian section for an 11-month term infant son. She was prescribed to take hormonal pills to regulate her cycle but 3 years later was diagnosed to have myoma. Two years later, she felt itchiness left breast and noticed a wound in the nipple - symptomatic of inflammatory breast cancer. Wary of hospital procedures, she sought out the PBCN and underwent a detox which greatly improved her overall condition.
Born 17 August 1975 in Culaba, Biliran and her menarche was at age 13. She lived in Bagong Barrio, Caloocan City (a highly polluted industrial environment) for 28 years before relocating to Imus Cavite in 2008. Sally started working as a casual employee in different companies since she was 19 years old and her first childbirth was at age 26 by caesarian section for an 11-month term infant son. She was prescribed to take hormonal pills to regulate her cycle but 3 years later was diagnosed to have myoma. Two years later, she felt itchiness left breast and noticed a wound in the nipple - symptomatic of inflammatory breast cancer. Wary of hospital procedures, she sought out the PBCN and underwent a detox which greatly improved her overall condition.
Susan E. Hipolito – Abnormal thermal breast imaging at age 37
Born 2 February 1969 in Cabanatuan City, Susan’s menarche was at age 13. At age 23, she had a cesarian delivery for her first child but five years later had normal delivery to her 2nd child. It was after her first child that she took birth control pills and got pregnant when she stopped 4 years later. At age 37, Susan felt pain on her breasts and underwent a thermal breast imaging. The result showed normal heat patterns and she was thus saved from mammography and/or biopsy. However, significant heat was seen in her neck area and this became the focus of her undergoing detoxification.
Born 2 February 1969 in Cabanatuan City, Susan’s menarche was at age 13. At age 23, she had a cesarian delivery for her first child but five years later had normal delivery to her 2nd child. It was after her first child that she took birth control pills and got pregnant when she stopped 4 years later. At age 37, Susan felt pain on her breasts and underwent a thermal breast imaging. The result showed normal heat patterns and she was thus saved from mammography and/or biopsy. However, significant heat was seen in her neck area and this became the focus of her undergoing detoxification.
Annabelle N. Ladines - Abnormal thermal breast imaging at age 25
Born 2 April 1975 in Catanauan, Quezon, her menarche was at age 12. A age 21, she had already felt a lump in her right breast. Three years later, she noticed it had grown the size of a corn and was accompanied by pain. A year later, she had lump in her right armpit removed without a biopsy done. The next year, at age 25 she underwent a thermal imaging, which showed an abnormal pattern on her right breast. She opted to pursue a 6-week protocol to address her condition. Seventeen months later, a repeat thermal imaging still showed an abnormal pattern in her right breast. She decided to complete another six weeks of the protocol she first did. Two months later, a third thermal imaging showed a normal pattern in her right breast. Nineteen months later, at age 28, she gave birth to her first child.
Born 2 April 1975 in Catanauan, Quezon, her menarche was at age 12. A age 21, she had already felt a lump in her right breast. Three years later, she noticed it had grown the size of a corn and was accompanied by pain. A year later, she had lump in her right armpit removed without a biopsy done. The next year, at age 25 she underwent a thermal imaging, which showed an abnormal pattern on her right breast. She opted to pursue a 6-week protocol to address her condition. Seventeen months later, a repeat thermal imaging still showed an abnormal pattern in her right breast. She decided to complete another six weeks of the protocol she first did. Two months later, a third thermal imaging showed a normal pattern in her right breast. Nineteen months later, at age 28, she gave birth to her first child.
Gladys C. Lawana - Abnormal thermal breast imaging at age 38
Born on 19 November 1965 in Abra, her menarche was at age 16. A college graduate, she gave birth to her only child at age 25. Engaged in the selling fresh coconut juice, it was at age 37 when she felt lump and pain in her left breast. Though she was being scheduled for a biopsy, she opted to undergo thermal imaging instead. The result showed an abnormal pattern on her left breast.
Born on 19 November 1965 in Abra, her menarche was at age 16. A college graduate, she gave birth to her only child at age 25. Engaged in the selling fresh coconut juice, it was at age 37 when she felt lump and pain in her left breast. Though she was being scheduled for a biopsy, she opted to undergo thermal imaging instead. The result showed an abnormal pattern on her left breast.
Ma. Louella Quiambao Manansala – Abnormal Thermal Breast Imaging at age 55
Born on the 11th of August, 1953 in Manila, Lui’s menarche was at age 12. She had two childbirths by normal deliveries at ages 22 and 35. From ages 40 to 50, she had several diagnostic procedures due to lumps in her leftt breast but all results were negative. However, a thermal breast imaging done at age 55 showed an abnormal thermal pattern on her left breast and this served reason enough for Lui to undertake preventive action by pursuing detoxification and nutritional measures to address her breast health.
Born on the 11th of August, 1953 in Manila, Lui’s menarche was at age 12. She had two childbirths by normal deliveries at ages 22 and 35. From ages 40 to 50, she had several diagnostic procedures due to lumps in her leftt breast but all results were negative. However, a thermal breast imaging done at age 55 showed an abnormal thermal pattern on her left breast and this served reason enough for Lui to undertake preventive action by pursuing detoxification and nutritional measures to address her breast health.
Monica M. Purino - Abnormal thermal breast imaging at age 52
Born 4 May 1954 in San Antonio, Quezon, her menarche was at age 14. She gave birth to 6 children at ages 22, 25, 27, 29, 30 and 32. She and her husband now own and manage a hardware in Rosario, Batangas. At age 48, she felt a lump and pain in her left beast but a mammogram done at one of the country’s premier private hospital was negative. A year later, she underwent thermal imaging, which showed abnormal patterns on both of her breasts. She underwent a non-toxic and non-invasive regimen and thereafter pursued a healthy diet. A repeat thermal two years later showed now showed a normal pattern on her left breast but her right breast was still abnormal. A 3rd thermal imaging done 7 months later still showed an abnormal pattern on her right breast. She has since continued to address her breast health with non-toxic and non-invasive measures, especially after seeing how her neighbor quickly succumbed from breast cancer within a year of conventional medical treatment.
Born 4 May 1954 in San Antonio, Quezon, her menarche was at age 14. She gave birth to 6 children at ages 22, 25, 27, 29, 30 and 32. She and her husband now own and manage a hardware in Rosario, Batangas. At age 48, she felt a lump and pain in her left beast but a mammogram done at one of the country’s premier private hospital was negative. A year later, she underwent thermal imaging, which showed abnormal patterns on both of her breasts. She underwent a non-toxic and non-invasive regimen and thereafter pursued a healthy diet. A repeat thermal two years later showed now showed a normal pattern on her left breast but her right breast was still abnormal. A 3rd thermal imaging done 7 months later still showed an abnormal pattern on her right breast. She has since continued to address her breast health with non-toxic and non-invasive measures, especially after seeing how her neighbor quickly succumbed from breast cancer within a year of conventional medical treatment.
Luz A. Rosaldez - Abnormal thermal breast imaging at age 32
Born on 11 April 1969 in Taguig, Metro Manila her menarche was at age 16. Luz was only able to finish high school and worked in a garment factory at age 20. She gave birth to three children. At age 32, she felt pain in her left breast and promptly sought medical attention. Three months later, she underwent thermal imaging, which showed an abnormal pattern on her right breast, while her left breast was normal. She immediately decided on undergoing a non-toxic and non-invasive regimen and two months later did a repeat thermal imaging. This time, both her breasts showed no abnormal patterns
Born on 11 April 1969 in Taguig, Metro Manila her menarche was at age 16. Luz was only able to finish high school and worked in a garment factory at age 20. She gave birth to three children. At age 32, she felt pain in her left breast and promptly sought medical attention. Three months later, she underwent thermal imaging, which showed an abnormal pattern on her right breast, while her left breast was normal. She immediately decided on undergoing a non-toxic and non-invasive regimen and two months later did a repeat thermal imaging. This time, both her breasts showed no abnormal patterns
Remelyn V. Ricarte – Abnormal Thermal Breast Imaging at age 17
Born on 30 April 1989 in Tiaong, Quezon, her menarche was at age 14. Felt lump on right breast at age 17 and had an ultrasound which recommended her for biopsy. Not wanting any incision done, she opted for a thermal breast imaging a month later. Based on the abnormal findings of her right breast, she decided to undergo detoxification and pursue nutritional measures in addressing her breast health.
Born on 30 April 1989 in Tiaong, Quezon, her menarche was at age 14. Felt lump on right breast at age 17 and had an ultrasound which recommended her for biopsy. Not wanting any incision done, she opted for a thermal breast imaging a month later. Based on the abnormal findings of her right breast, she decided to undergo detoxification and pursue nutritional measures in addressing her breast health.
Sylvia Angelique S. Umbac - Abnormal thermal breast imaging at age 32
Born on 12 August 1971 in Dumaguete City, her menarche was at age 11. Angie became a lawyer and worked for five years in the staff of a lady senator before her present work in the Department of Agriculture. A lump on her right breast was detected during a routine medical check-up at age 32. Upon the advise of a close friend, she underwent thermal imaging instead of a mammogram or biopsy. The findings showed abnormal thermal patterns of both her breasts. Not wanting to delay treatment, she immediately opted to undergo non-toxic and non-invasive intervention.
Born on 12 August 1971 in Dumaguete City, her menarche was at age 11. Angie became a lawyer and worked for five years in the staff of a lady senator before her present work in the Department of Agriculture. A lump on her right breast was detected during a routine medical check-up at age 32. Upon the advise of a close friend, she underwent thermal imaging instead of a mammogram or biopsy. The findings showed abnormal thermal patterns of both her breasts. Not wanting to delay treatment, she immediately opted to undergo non-toxic and non-invasive intervention.
Living with Breast Cancer
The breast is not a vital organ and only when the cancer has affected the lungs or liver is one's life threatened. Isolating the cancer and keeping it from spreading is best achieved thru non-toxic and non-invasive regimens. The PBCN has had very encouraging results with its protocol for more than 10 years.
Rosalisa K. Alindahao - Diagnosed at age 42
Born on 14 December 1961 in Paco, Manila, her menarche was at age 12. At age 4, she suffered from asthma and received continuous medications. With an M.S. Degree in Economics, Shalee has been in the banking industry ever since. She started taking birth control pills intermittently at age 27 over a 10-year period. She gave birth by cesarean section to all of her four children at ages 29, 30, 37 and 39. At the onset of her 2nd pregnancy, she experienced gestational diabetes. The longest breastfed was her 3rd child for a period of six months and the shortest was her eldest at only two weeks. Her first born died at an early age and deeply depressed her for a long period. Four months before her 43rd birthday, she felt a lump in her right breast. A clinical breast exam was said to be benign but a mammogram and ultrasound done were suspicious for malignancy. A biopsy was then done and malignancy was confirmed. A mastectomy was promptly performed two weeks later and diagnosed with Stage 2A breast cancer with none of 13 lymph nodes recovered found positive. Two months later, she was told that she had brain metastasis. Alarmed and confused, she held off chemotherapy and sought other options. A thermal imaging done showed a severely abnormal pattern on her right post- mastectomy site. Shalee has since been pursuing non-toxic and non-invasive measures in confronting breast cancer. Shalee was a participant of Project BRCA 7 on October 2004.
Born on 14 December 1961 in Paco, Manila, her menarche was at age 12. At age 4, she suffered from asthma and received continuous medications. With an M.S. Degree in Economics, Shalee has been in the banking industry ever since. She started taking birth control pills intermittently at age 27 over a 10-year period. She gave birth by cesarean section to all of her four children at ages 29, 30, 37 and 39. At the onset of her 2nd pregnancy, she experienced gestational diabetes. The longest breastfed was her 3rd child for a period of six months and the shortest was her eldest at only two weeks. Her first born died at an early age and deeply depressed her for a long period. Four months before her 43rd birthday, she felt a lump in her right breast. A clinical breast exam was said to be benign but a mammogram and ultrasound done were suspicious for malignancy. A biopsy was then done and malignancy was confirmed. A mastectomy was promptly performed two weeks later and diagnosed with Stage 2A breast cancer with none of 13 lymph nodes recovered found positive. Two months later, she was told that she had brain metastasis. Alarmed and confused, she held off chemotherapy and sought other options. A thermal imaging done showed a severely abnormal pattern on her right post- mastectomy site. Shalee has since been pursuing non-toxic and non-invasive measures in confronting breast cancer. Shalee was a participant of Project BRCA 7 on October 2004.
Nida Bueno Asilo – Diagnosed at age 53
Born on 2 March 1950 in Nagcarlan, Laguna. A native of Nagcarlan, Laguna, Nida finished her BS in Education at San Pablo Colleges. From 1972 to the present, she has been an administrative staff at various units at UP in Los Baños, Laguna. Two years at the College of Agriculture, 3 years with the Vice Chancellor, 16 yrs with the National Crop Protection Center, 10 years with the Post Harvest Training & Research Center and currently with the College of Veterinary Medicine, since 2003. A child-free woman, she commuted daily from Nagcarlan to Los Baños until year 2000 when she decided to reside in Bay, Laguna after her mother passed away in 1996. At age 53 on July 2003, she accidentally felt an elongated lump on her left breast. She promptly sought medical attention and was told to have an ultrasound but which showed nothing suspicious. However, another physician advised a needle aspiration but which only showed fibroadenoma. A third physician did an incision biopsy two months later and the result showed invasive ductal carcinoma. Nida was given a choice of just a mastectomy or a lumpectomy with chemo & radiotherapy. Without much information, Nida chose the former. On October 27, 2003, she underwent a radical mastectomy at PGH and was diagnosed with Stage 2 breast cancer with all of 10 lymph nodes removed found to be negative/ 10 out of 23 lymph nodes positive. She was then prescribed Tamoxifen and though she was discovered 19 months later to have 3 myomata in her endometrial lining, she was not told to discontinue the medication. However, another 17 moths later she experienced fluid retention in her red eye and this time, she was told to discontinue Tamoxifen. Four years after her mastectomy, the results of her breast thermal imaging done on May 21, 2007 showed abnormal patterns on her left side with severe heat in her neck area. She has since embarked on non-toxic and non-invasive interventions.
Born on 2 March 1950 in Nagcarlan, Laguna. A native of Nagcarlan, Laguna, Nida finished her BS in Education at San Pablo Colleges. From 1972 to the present, she has been an administrative staff at various units at UP in Los Baños, Laguna. Two years at the College of Agriculture, 3 years with the Vice Chancellor, 16 yrs with the National Crop Protection Center, 10 years with the Post Harvest Training & Research Center and currently with the College of Veterinary Medicine, since 2003. A child-free woman, she commuted daily from Nagcarlan to Los Baños until year 2000 when she decided to reside in Bay, Laguna after her mother passed away in 1996. At age 53 on July 2003, she accidentally felt an elongated lump on her left breast. She promptly sought medical attention and was told to have an ultrasound but which showed nothing suspicious. However, another physician advised a needle aspiration but which only showed fibroadenoma. A third physician did an incision biopsy two months later and the result showed invasive ductal carcinoma. Nida was given a choice of just a mastectomy or a lumpectomy with chemo & radiotherapy. Without much information, Nida chose the former. On October 27, 2003, she underwent a radical mastectomy at PGH and was diagnosed with Stage 2 breast cancer with all of 10 lymph nodes removed found to be negative/ 10 out of 23 lymph nodes positive. She was then prescribed Tamoxifen and though she was discovered 19 months later to have 3 myomata in her endometrial lining, she was not told to discontinue the medication. However, another 17 moths later she experienced fluid retention in her red eye and this time, she was told to discontinue Tamoxifen. Four years after her mastectomy, the results of her breast thermal imaging done on May 21, 2007 showed abnormal patterns on her left side with severe heat in her neck area. She has since embarked on non-toxic and non-invasive interventions.
Ederlinda J. Austrial – Diagnosed at age 41
Born on 11 October 1956 in Lucena City, her menarche was at age 11. A child free woman, Eder completed a BS degree in Physical Therapy but ended up working as a program coordinator at ABS-CBN Broadcasting Corporation. At age 41, a routine mammogram done was negative. A year later though, a biopsy done to a lump on her right breast was positive for malignancy and she was promptly subjected to a lumpectomy, then shortly after a mastectomy and was diagnosed to have Stage 2 breast cancer. Two years after, she underwent Thermal Imaging which showed a severely abnormal pattern of her post mastectomy site. She then completed a 6-week non-toxic and non-invasive regimen and a repeat thermal one year later showed improvement.
Eder was a participant of the first Project BRCA on October 2002. She also attended the World Conferences on Breast Cancer in Victoria 2002 and Halifax 2005. She has since co-organized the Breast Cancer Society of Manila.
Born on 11 October 1956 in Lucena City, her menarche was at age 11. A child free woman, Eder completed a BS degree in Physical Therapy but ended up working as a program coordinator at ABS-CBN Broadcasting Corporation. At age 41, a routine mammogram done was negative. A year later though, a biopsy done to a lump on her right breast was positive for malignancy and she was promptly subjected to a lumpectomy, then shortly after a mastectomy and was diagnosed to have Stage 2 breast cancer. Two years after, she underwent Thermal Imaging which showed a severely abnormal pattern of her post mastectomy site. She then completed a 6-week non-toxic and non-invasive regimen and a repeat thermal one year later showed improvement.
Eder was a participant of the first Project BRCA on October 2002. She also attended the World Conferences on Breast Cancer in Victoria 2002 and Halifax 2005. She has since co-organized the Breast Cancer Society of Manila.
Ma. Cristina Latosa Bonina - diagnosed at age 39
Born 04 February 1970 in Tatay, Rizal, her menarche was at the late age of 17. Her elementary and secondary years were in Lucena City while she took college in Puerto Princessa City. At age 26, she entered the Order of the Missionaries of the Holy Spirit in Bataan. She first noticed a small lump in her left breast at age 29 but was told by her superiors not to mind it. For the next ten years, the lump persisted and grew until it became itchy and when she scratched it, a wound resulted with a foul smell. Only then did her superiors have her seek medical consultation but Sister Cristina opted to pursue a non-toxic and non-invasive regimen as recommended by a friend-nun of hers who has been living with breast cancer for ten years without having undergone conventional medical treatments. Sister Cristina’s BC risk exposures were most likely her late menarche; irregular menstruation when she entered the convent due to manual laundry with intensive use of chlorox; her diet of donated canned goods & instant noodle and drinking the ground water from an area of large mango orchards regularly sprayed with chemicals.
Born 04 February 1970 in Tatay, Rizal, her menarche was at the late age of 17. Her elementary and secondary years were in Lucena City while she took college in Puerto Princessa City. At age 26, she entered the Order of the Missionaries of the Holy Spirit in Bataan. She first noticed a small lump in her left breast at age 29 but was told by her superiors not to mind it. For the next ten years, the lump persisted and grew until it became itchy and when she scratched it, a wound resulted with a foul smell. Only then did her superiors have her seek medical consultation but Sister Cristina opted to pursue a non-toxic and non-invasive regimen as recommended by a friend-nun of hers who has been living with breast cancer for ten years without having undergone conventional medical treatments. Sister Cristina’s BC risk exposures were most likely her late menarche; irregular menstruation when she entered the convent due to manual laundry with intensive use of chlorox; her diet of donated canned goods & instant noodle and drinking the ground water from an area of large mango orchards regularly sprayed with chemicals.
Sally R. Catapangan - Diagnosed at 38
Born on 5 September 1964 in Donsol, Sorsogon her menarche was at age 15. Sally was only able to finish high school and upon marriage, relocated to Taguig, Rizal where she and her husband engaged in duck egg business. She gave birth to her only child at age 30 and suffered a miscarriage at age 34. On her 38th birthday, she felt pain on her right breast. Four months later, she underwent thermal imaging, which showed an abnormal pattern on her right breast. She opted to undergo a non-toxic and non-invasive regimen but a repeat thermal four months later showed persistence of an abnormal pattern. Nevertheless, she has been pursuing a natural approach in addressing her health condition with much determination and resolve. She was a participant of Project BRCA 3 on May 2003.
Born on 5 September 1964 in Donsol, Sorsogon her menarche was at age 15. Sally was only able to finish high school and upon marriage, relocated to Taguig, Rizal where she and her husband engaged in duck egg business. She gave birth to her only child at age 30 and suffered a miscarriage at age 34. On her 38th birthday, she felt pain on her right breast. Four months later, she underwent thermal imaging, which showed an abnormal pattern on her right breast. She opted to undergo a non-toxic and non-invasive regimen but a repeat thermal four months later showed persistence of an abnormal pattern. Nevertheless, she has been pursuing a natural approach in addressing her health condition with much determination and resolve. She was a participant of Project BRCA 3 on May 2003.
Redencion R. Coladilla – Diagnosed at age 48
Born on 29 June 1951 in Luisiana, Laguna, her menarche was at age13.
Born on 29 June 1951 in Luisiana, Laguna, her menarche was at age13.
Marcelina S. Coloma – Diagnosed at age 44
Born on 30 October 1957 in Loay, Bohol, her menarche was at age 13. A practicing optometrist, she was prescribed Clomid in her desire to bear child. At age 42, she gave birth to her only child by cesarean section. Twenty months later, she felt a lump in her left breast. The result of a biopsy done was mucinous carcinoma. Two weeks later, she was rushed by her doctor for a mastectomy without discussing her biopsy result. She insisted to have it read first but her doctor said it could wait. After the operation, she was wondering why her doctor didn’t give much concern about the result. Unsatisfied with no explanations given her, she did her own research and learned that her lump was of the benign type and a simple lumpectomy could have been done. Three months later. she underwent a thermal imaging, which showed a severely abnormal pattern on her left post-mastectomy site. A repeat thermal imaging done a year later showed a persistent severely abnormal pattern. A third thermal imaging done another year later still showed the same findings.
Born on 30 October 1957 in Loay, Bohol, her menarche was at age 13. A practicing optometrist, she was prescribed Clomid in her desire to bear child. At age 42, she gave birth to her only child by cesarean section. Twenty months later, she felt a lump in her left breast. The result of a biopsy done was mucinous carcinoma. Two weeks later, she was rushed by her doctor for a mastectomy without discussing her biopsy result. She insisted to have it read first but her doctor said it could wait. After the operation, she was wondering why her doctor didn’t give much concern about the result. Unsatisfied with no explanations given her, she did her own research and learned that her lump was of the benign type and a simple lumpectomy could have been done. Three months later. she underwent a thermal imaging, which showed a severely abnormal pattern on her left post-mastectomy site. A repeat thermal imaging done a year later showed a persistent severely abnormal pattern. A third thermal imaging done another year later still showed the same findings.
Jacquelyn Coro - Diagnosed at age 27
Born on 16 February 1981 in Lipa City, she did not want to lose her breast as she was scheduled to get married. Upon learning of the PBCN, she underwent the protocol at Tiaong Breast Haven and finished the entire course . She has married since in April 2010 and now has a child. Jacquelyn continues to work as a public school teacher and now eats more vegetables than she ever did in her life.
Born on 16 February 1981 in Lipa City, she did not want to lose her breast as she was scheduled to get married. Upon learning of the PBCN, she underwent the protocol at Tiaong Breast Haven and finished the entire course . She has married since in April 2010 and now has a child. Jacquelyn continues to work as a public school teacher and now eats more vegetables than she ever did in her life.
Lydia dlc Cruz – diagnosed at age 37
Born on 27 March 1960 in Mandaluyong City, her menarche was at age 15. A college graduate in Food & Nutrition, Lydia engaged in food supply business near her residence. She gave birth to four children at ages 24, 29, 33 and 35. Less than 2 years after her last childbirth, she felt a lump in her right breast. Upon medical consultation at the government’s premier public hospital, a needle aspiration biopsy was done but was negative. A repeat biopsy however showed medullary carcinoma and a lumpectomy was done. Two months later, a mastectomy was performed and followed with 4-cycles of chemotherapy another two months later. She was then prescribed oral Tamoxifen for the next 8 months. Four years later, sensing a possible recurrence, she underwent thermal imaging, which showed an abnormal pattern on her right post-mastectomy site.
Born on 27 March 1960 in Mandaluyong City, her menarche was at age 15. A college graduate in Food & Nutrition, Lydia engaged in food supply business near her residence. She gave birth to four children at ages 24, 29, 33 and 35. Less than 2 years after her last childbirth, she felt a lump in her right breast. Upon medical consultation at the government’s premier public hospital, a needle aspiration biopsy was done but was negative. A repeat biopsy however showed medullary carcinoma and a lumpectomy was done. Two months later, a mastectomy was performed and followed with 4-cycles of chemotherapy another two months later. She was then prescribed oral Tamoxifen for the next 8 months. Four years later, sensing a possible recurrence, she underwent thermal imaging, which showed an abnormal pattern on her right post-mastectomy site.
Juanita dela Cruz - Diagnosed at age 38
Born on 1 November 1964 in Benito Soliven, Isabela, her menarche was at age 13. Though born deaf and mute, Juanita was able to finish high school and for 5 years, worked as a re-packer of chemicals and fertilizers in an agricultural seed company. She had childbirth at ages 24, 28, 30 and 31 – her third were twins. Eight months after her last childbirth she already felt pain on her right breast but disregarded it. Thrice, she took “cytotec’ (a drug made by G.D.Searle, the same manufacturers of spironolactone) that induced abortion when she got pregnant at ages 34, 36 and 37. By this time, a lump had already grown in her right breast. Upon the advice of her American school teacher, she underwent thermal imaging, which showed an abnormal pattern on her right breast.
Born on 1 November 1964 in Benito Soliven, Isabela, her menarche was at age 13. Though born deaf and mute, Juanita was able to finish high school and for 5 years, worked as a re-packer of chemicals and fertilizers in an agricultural seed company. She had childbirth at ages 24, 28, 30 and 31 – her third were twins. Eight months after her last childbirth she already felt pain on her right breast but disregarded it. Thrice, she took “cytotec’ (a drug made by G.D.Searle, the same manufacturers of spironolactone) that induced abortion when she got pregnant at ages 34, 36 and 37. By this time, a lump had already grown in her right breast. Upon the advice of her American school teacher, she underwent thermal imaging, which showed an abnormal pattern on her right breast.
Miriam Bongao Francisco – Diagnosed at age 59
Born 22 November 1950 in Albay, she had menarche at age 14 and worked in a garment factory for more than 20 years. In 2006, she relocated to Singapore to be with her daughter & son. She was diagnosed with Breast Cancer- Stage 2B ER+(90%) on January 2010. A month later, she underwent right breast mastectomy with 3 of 25 of her lymph nodes removed found positive. Not wanting to submit to chemo and radiation, she was accompanied by her daughter to undergo the PBCN's detox protocol in Tiaong Breast Haven. To this day, with the help of her family, she has been pursuing non-toxic and non-invasive measures in managing her cancer. She has been medically found to be on remission. Miriam believes that there is no cure yet for cancer and that anyone claiming a cure, is either a liar, is misinformed or is just using ‘cure’ to mean NED or “no evidence of disease.” For Miriam, cancer can be managed and believes it can be controlled with the right diet and nutrition.
Born 22 November 1950 in Albay, she had menarche at age 14 and worked in a garment factory for more than 20 years. In 2006, she relocated to Singapore to be with her daughter & son. She was diagnosed with Breast Cancer- Stage 2B ER+(90%) on January 2010. A month later, she underwent right breast mastectomy with 3 of 25 of her lymph nodes removed found positive. Not wanting to submit to chemo and radiation, she was accompanied by her daughter to undergo the PBCN's detox protocol in Tiaong Breast Haven. To this day, with the help of her family, she has been pursuing non-toxic and non-invasive measures in managing her cancer. She has been medically found to be on remission. Miriam believes that there is no cure yet for cancer and that anyone claiming a cure, is either a liar, is misinformed or is just using ‘cure’ to mean NED or “no evidence of disease.” For Miriam, cancer can be managed and believes it can be controlled with the right diet and nutrition.
Celine D. Garcia – Diagnosed at age 68
Born on 23 May 1935 in Davao City, her menarche was at age 14. With a BS Degree in Music, Major in Piano, she never got pregnant. A mammogram done at age 68 showed a mass on her right breast and a biopsy done showed signs of cancer. A month later, a mastectomy was performed and she was diagnosed with Ductal Carcinoma In-Situ. Not wanting to submit to chemotherapy, she has since been pursuing non-toxic and non-invasive measures in confronting breast cancer.
Born on 23 May 1935 in Davao City, her menarche was at age 14. With a BS Degree in Music, Major in Piano, she never got pregnant. A mammogram done at age 68 showed a mass on her right breast and a biopsy done showed signs of cancer. A month later, a mastectomy was performed and she was diagnosed with Ductal Carcinoma In-Situ. Not wanting to submit to chemotherapy, she has since been pursuing non-toxic and non-invasive measures in confronting breast cancer.
Marianita I. Idica - diagnosed at age 59
Born on 02 June 1949 in Dingras, Ilocos Norte, her menarche was at age 12. Nitz had five childbirths, all normally delivered when she was at ages 29, 33, 35, 37 and 40. She first noticed a lump on her left breast at age 54 and underwent mammography but was told the lump was only fibrocystic. Five years later though, she had an excision removal of solid nodules in both breasts and was now told to have stage I intraductal carcinoma. Shocked by the results, Nitz sought another opinion and ended up having a thermal breast imaging less than a month later, which showed a normal right breast but a severely abnormal heat pattern on her left breast. Wasting no time, Nitz opted to undergo a non-invasive and non-toxic regimen in addressing her breast problem instead of submitting herself to conventional treatments. A most likely aggravating cause of her breast problem is her place of residence: San Bartolome, Novaliches, Quezon City where there is a highly polluting metal factory in her neighborhood.
Born on 02 June 1949 in Dingras, Ilocos Norte, her menarche was at age 12. Nitz had five childbirths, all normally delivered when she was at ages 29, 33, 35, 37 and 40. She first noticed a lump on her left breast at age 54 and underwent mammography but was told the lump was only fibrocystic. Five years later though, she had an excision removal of solid nodules in both breasts and was now told to have stage I intraductal carcinoma. Shocked by the results, Nitz sought another opinion and ended up having a thermal breast imaging less than a month later, which showed a normal right breast but a severely abnormal heat pattern on her left breast. Wasting no time, Nitz opted to undergo a non-invasive and non-toxic regimen in addressing her breast problem instead of submitting herself to conventional treatments. A most likely aggravating cause of her breast problem is her place of residence: San Bartolome, Novaliches, Quezon City where there is a highly polluting metal factory in her neighborhood.
Elizabeth M. Librojo – Diagnosed at age 29
Born on the 4th of July 1974 in Antipolo City, Lai’s menarche was at age 12 and her only childbirth was at age 28. A year later, she felt a lump in her left breast and underwent a lumpectomy 6 months later and specimen findings were benign. However 3 months later, 2 lumps appeared where she had surgery. This was when Lai decided to purse non-toxic and non invasive regimens in addressing her breast health.
Born on the 4th of July 1974 in Antipolo City, Lai’s menarche was at age 12 and her only childbirth was at age 28. A year later, she felt a lump in her left breast and underwent a lumpectomy 6 months later and specimen findings were benign. However 3 months later, 2 lumps appeared where she had surgery. This was when Lai decided to purse non-toxic and non invasive regimens in addressing her breast health.
Adoracion L. Maquiraya Diagnosed at age 42
Born on the 18th of November 1962 in Sta Ana, Pampanga, Dong’s menarche was at age 13. Her first pregnancy was at age 29 and her last was at age 35. An accountant, she worked for a large courier company for more than 5 years. She first noticed inflammation of her right breast nipple at age 42 and tests conducted showed her to be positive for cancer. She underwent mastectomy but she did not agree to chemo or radiation. Nine months later, she underwent thermal breast imaging which showed her right breast to be severely abnormal. She felt bad because she was made to understand that her breast removal would have taken out the tumor. She has opted to pursue non-toxic regimens in addressing her health condition.
Born on the 18th of November 1962 in Sta Ana, Pampanga, Dong’s menarche was at age 13. Her first pregnancy was at age 29 and her last was at age 35. An accountant, she worked for a large courier company for more than 5 years. She first noticed inflammation of her right breast nipple at age 42 and tests conducted showed her to be positive for cancer. She underwent mastectomy but she did not agree to chemo or radiation. Nine months later, she underwent thermal breast imaging which showed her right breast to be severely abnormal. She felt bad because she was made to understand that her breast removal would have taken out the tumor. She has opted to pursue non-toxic regimens in addressing her health condition.
Belen Siton-Pates - Diagnosed at age 56
A private law practitioner in Iligan City, Lanao del Norte, Belen underwent the PBCN’s breast cancer protocol in July 2009. She was scheduled for mastectomy but her only daughter (a nurse in Chicago) convinced her to instead contact the PBCN. This she did and ever since then has not submitted herself to surgery or chemotherapy. In an email sent on October 2012, Belen wrote: “I would like to make a testimony for the Philippine Breast Cancer Network that I live my life in full, dancing, doing day to day job with all the conventions and activities without any pain treatment. Although I have cancer, I was able to do that and live like an ordinary person because of your breast cancer protocol. I am looking good, don’t feel tired and even do activities the whole day and dance at night. My friends did not expect that I have breast cancer. Thank you, Thank you!
In a recent check up at St, Luke's, there was no finding of metastasis at all - to the surprise of the doctors. In fact, there were no more signs of breast cancer.
A private law practitioner in Iligan City, Lanao del Norte, Belen underwent the PBCN’s breast cancer protocol in July 2009. She was scheduled for mastectomy but her only daughter (a nurse in Chicago) convinced her to instead contact the PBCN. This she did and ever since then has not submitted herself to surgery or chemotherapy. In an email sent on October 2012, Belen wrote: “I would like to make a testimony for the Philippine Breast Cancer Network that I live my life in full, dancing, doing day to day job with all the conventions and activities without any pain treatment. Although I have cancer, I was able to do that and live like an ordinary person because of your breast cancer protocol. I am looking good, don’t feel tired and even do activities the whole day and dance at night. My friends did not expect that I have breast cancer. Thank you, Thank you!
In a recent check up at St, Luke's, there was no finding of metastasis at all - to the surprise of the doctors. In fact, there were no more signs of breast cancer.
Socorro A. Perez – diagnosed at age 44
Born on 15 July 1959 in Koronadal City, South Cotabato, her menarche was at age 14. Socky finished her BS in Nursing in San Pedro College, Davao City and soon became a Registered Nurse. At age 30 she gave birth to her only child by caesarian section. In 1992, when her child was only 15 months old, she went to Saudi Arabia to work in an Ophthalmology Center. Nine years later, she became an ICU nurse in Dammam Central Hospital, K.S.A. From 1994 to 2001, she would take birth control pills for 45 days every time she went back to the Philippines, as pregnancy would adversely affect her overseas employment. On October 2003, after 11 years of working in Saudi Arabia, Socky felt a lump at the upper quadrant of her right breast and sought medical opinion. The results of her mammogram, ultrasound and needle aspiration biopsy had no signs of malignancy although two lumps were detected on each of her breasts and were said to be fibroadenoma. A full CT scan also cleared her vital organs. Two weeks later, she still sensed that something wasn’t right and upon her insistence, another doctor performed a lumpectomy of her right breast and found to be positive. Five days later, Socky had a mastectomy done on November 2003 and was diagnosed to have Lobular In Situ Carcinoma, Grade I and a frozen section of her left breast with only 1/3 lymph nodes positive. With a Stage 2 breast cancer diagnosis, she underwent 6-cycles of chemotherapy of three drugs on January 2004. She was later transferred to the Pulmonary Section. All this time, she kept her family from knowing of her illness and relied on close friends to cheer her up. On May 2005, less than a year after chemotherapy, another lump appeared above her right breast area. Now diagnosed with invasive carcinoma, she submitted herself to another 6-cycles of chemotherapy, this time with only one drug (Docitaxil) because there was no distant metastasis. Found to be estrogen-negative, she was not anymore prescribed oral tamoxifen as maintenance and advised for periodic monitoring. But by this time, Socky was already exhausted and could no longer accept a third chemotherapy.
Born on 15 July 1959 in Koronadal City, South Cotabato, her menarche was at age 14. Socky finished her BS in Nursing in San Pedro College, Davao City and soon became a Registered Nurse. At age 30 she gave birth to her only child by caesarian section. In 1992, when her child was only 15 months old, she went to Saudi Arabia to work in an Ophthalmology Center. Nine years later, she became an ICU nurse in Dammam Central Hospital, K.S.A. From 1994 to 2001, she would take birth control pills for 45 days every time she went back to the Philippines, as pregnancy would adversely affect her overseas employment. On October 2003, after 11 years of working in Saudi Arabia, Socky felt a lump at the upper quadrant of her right breast and sought medical opinion. The results of her mammogram, ultrasound and needle aspiration biopsy had no signs of malignancy although two lumps were detected on each of her breasts and were said to be fibroadenoma. A full CT scan also cleared her vital organs. Two weeks later, she still sensed that something wasn’t right and upon her insistence, another doctor performed a lumpectomy of her right breast and found to be positive. Five days later, Socky had a mastectomy done on November 2003 and was diagnosed to have Lobular In Situ Carcinoma, Grade I and a frozen section of her left breast with only 1/3 lymph nodes positive. With a Stage 2 breast cancer diagnosis, she underwent 6-cycles of chemotherapy of three drugs on January 2004. She was later transferred to the Pulmonary Section. All this time, she kept her family from knowing of her illness and relied on close friends to cheer her up. On May 2005, less than a year after chemotherapy, another lump appeared above her right breast area. Now diagnosed with invasive carcinoma, she submitted herself to another 6-cycles of chemotherapy, this time with only one drug (Docitaxil) because there was no distant metastasis. Found to be estrogen-negative, she was not anymore prescribed oral tamoxifen as maintenance and advised for periodic monitoring. But by this time, Socky was already exhausted and could no longer accept a third chemotherapy.
Ruth Herminia P. Policarpio – Diagnosed at age 47
Born on 12 January 1958 in Cabanatuan City, her menarche was at age 15. With a B.S. Degree in education, Ruth became a college-level teacher. She gave birth to 3 children at ages 25, 26 and 33. She was only able to breast feed her children for two months each. After her 2nd childbirth, she took oral contraceptives for two years and stopped when it was making her feel bad. A month after her 47th birthday, she felt a lump in her left breast. A clinical breast exam and biopsy performed showed malignancy and she was urgently being scheduled for a mastectomy. Seeking other options, she underwent thermal imaging, which showed a severely abnormal pattern, not in her left but in her right breast! She thus opted for a non-toxic and non-invasive regimen and was thus prevented for having undergone unnecessary mastectomy of her left breast.
Born on 12 January 1958 in Cabanatuan City, her menarche was at age 15. With a B.S. Degree in education, Ruth became a college-level teacher. She gave birth to 3 children at ages 25, 26 and 33. She was only able to breast feed her children for two months each. After her 2nd childbirth, she took oral contraceptives for two years and stopped when it was making her feel bad. A month after her 47th birthday, she felt a lump in her left breast. A clinical breast exam and biopsy performed showed malignancy and she was urgently being scheduled for a mastectomy. Seeking other options, she underwent thermal imaging, which showed a severely abnormal pattern, not in her left but in her right breast! She thus opted for a non-toxic and non-invasive regimen and was thus prevented for having undergone unnecessary mastectomy of her left breast.
Cely L. Roque - Diagnosed at age 65
Born on 4 February 1940 in Caloocan City, her menarche was at age 16. Cely gave birth to her first child at the age of 23 and to her fourth child at age 34. Due to pain in her right breast at age 64, sought medical opinion and was advised to undergo surgery. Hesitant to do such, she sought non-surgical treatment from a supposed cancer specialist but who is not recognized by the medical cancer specialty board and who is also not recognized by three major hospitals in the area of his clinic. She was prescribed tamoxifen. Three months later, she decided to undergo non-toxic and non-invasive measures to confront her health condition.
Born on 4 February 1940 in Caloocan City, her menarche was at age 16. Cely gave birth to her first child at the age of 23 and to her fourth child at age 34. Due to pain in her right breast at age 64, sought medical opinion and was advised to undergo surgery. Hesitant to do such, she sought non-surgical treatment from a supposed cancer specialist but who is not recognized by the medical cancer specialty board and who is also not recognized by three major hospitals in the area of his clinic. She was prescribed tamoxifen. Three months later, she decided to undergo non-toxic and non-invasive measures to confront her health condition.
Ma. Victoria S. Simon – Diagnosed at age 48
Born on 2 April 1955 in Manila, her menarche was at age 11. Mavic comes from a family with a history of cancer on her mother’s side. With her only child born when she was age 29, she later on took hormonal fertility drugs for 3 months. Nineteen years later, she noticed a lump on her right breast. A mammogram done only showed suspicious signs but was diagnosed to have Stage 2A breast cancer based on the biopsy done. A mastectomy followed but none of the 17 lymph nodes removed was positive. Seven months later, she underwent 6-cycles of chemotherapy, followed two months later with 33 days of radiation. Wanting to know of her situation, she underwent a thermal imaging and the results showed a severely abnormal pattern on her right post-mastectomy site while her left breast was equivocal. She then wasted no time by deciding to undergo detoxification two months later.
Born on 2 April 1955 in Manila, her menarche was at age 11. Mavic comes from a family with a history of cancer on her mother’s side. With her only child born when she was age 29, she later on took hormonal fertility drugs for 3 months. Nineteen years later, she noticed a lump on her right breast. A mammogram done only showed suspicious signs but was diagnosed to have Stage 2A breast cancer based on the biopsy done. A mastectomy followed but none of the 17 lymph nodes removed was positive. Seven months later, she underwent 6-cycles of chemotherapy, followed two months later with 33 days of radiation. Wanting to know of her situation, she underwent a thermal imaging and the results showed a severely abnormal pattern on her right post-mastectomy site while her left breast was equivocal. She then wasted no time by deciding to undergo detoxification two months later.
Helen G. Valentin - Diagnosed at age 48
Born 1n 1959 in Silay, Negros Occidental, Helen was orphaned at an early age and grew up with relatives in Altavas, Aklan where she was only able to finish high school. Married at age 24, she gave birth a year later and less than 6 months later went to Hong Kong as a domestic helper in 1984. Employed by a Swiss national, she was allowed yearly vacations and would take oral contraceptives before flying home. She continued this practice for the next five years and by 1989, Helen already noticed recurring heat on her left breast but a mammogram done was negative. By this time, she was longing to have another baby and true enough, when she did not take the pill on her return in 1990, she got pregnant and gave birth to another son a year later. On February 2007 a biopsy was positive for Infiltrating Mucinous Carcinoma. With the assistance of her former Swiss employer, she went to Tiaong Breast Haven and has since pursued alternative treatments.
Born 1n 1959 in Silay, Negros Occidental, Helen was orphaned at an early age and grew up with relatives in Altavas, Aklan where she was only able to finish high school. Married at age 24, she gave birth a year later and less than 6 months later went to Hong Kong as a domestic helper in 1984. Employed by a Swiss national, she was allowed yearly vacations and would take oral contraceptives before flying home. She continued this practice for the next five years and by 1989, Helen already noticed recurring heat on her left breast but a mammogram done was negative. By this time, she was longing to have another baby and true enough, when she did not take the pill on her return in 1990, she got pregnant and gave birth to another son a year later. On February 2007 a biopsy was positive for Infiltrating Mucinous Carcinoma. With the assistance of her former Swiss employer, she went to Tiaong Breast Haven and has since pursued alternative treatments.
Recurrence / Metastasis within 3 Years
No where in the world can it be known at the very onset whether one's cancer is of the fast-growing
or slow-growing type. An aggressive approach will only complicate and hasten metastasis.
Rufina P. Adonis (17 November 1951 – 22 November 2002)
Diagnosed at age 50, died 13 months later. Born in Dulag, Leyte, her menarche was at age 12. Rufina first gave birth at age 21, then at age 24 and lastly at age 40. Ten years after her last childbirth, she felt pain in her left breast and a biopsy done showed a malignancy. She underwent a mastectomy two months later and chemotherapy six months later. She was only able to finish 3 sessions due to severe adverse reactions. Two months later, the cancer had gone to her brain and there was already a discharge from her post mastectomy site. She submitted herself again to chemotherapy 3 months later but she succumbed after the 5th session.
Diagnosed at age 50, died 13 months later. Born in Dulag, Leyte, her menarche was at age 12. Rufina first gave birth at age 21, then at age 24 and lastly at age 40. Ten years after her last childbirth, she felt pain in her left breast and a biopsy done showed a malignancy. She underwent a mastectomy two months later and chemotherapy six months later. She was only able to finish 3 sessions due to severe adverse reactions. Two months later, the cancer had gone to her brain and there was already a discharge from her post mastectomy site. She submitted herself again to chemotherapy 3 months later but she succumbed after the 5th session.
Humiliada E. Advincula (4 June 1956 – 24 September 2005)
Diagnosed at age 46, died 3 years later. Born in Palo, Leyte
Diagnosed at age 46, died 3 years later. Born in Palo, Leyte
Ma. Gloressa V. Alfane – (18 April 1964 – 3 November 2006)
Diagnosed at age 41 and died 19 months later. Born in Manila, her menarche was at age 11. Gigi worked for the government’s Department on Public Works & Highways after completing her B.S. degree in Civil Engineering. She gave birth to her only child at age 25 and then took birth control pills for the next 5 years. Due to marital differences, she separated from her husband when their son was 7 years old. A month before her 41st birthday, she noticed a lump on her left breast. Based on suspicions from her ultra sound results, a lumpectomy was done and the biopsy result was positive for breast cancer. Devastated by the findings, she immediately sought spiritual healing. Two months later, a lump recurred on the same site. Her thermal imaging 3 months later showed a severely abnormal pattern on her left breast. Embarking on a 6-week detoxification regimen, she could only complete 2 weeks. Four months later, there was already pus and bloody discharge on her wounded left breast. Upon the insistence of her parents, she subjected herself to chemotherapy which shortly led to her demise.
Diagnosed at age 41 and died 19 months later. Born in Manila, her menarche was at age 11. Gigi worked for the government’s Department on Public Works & Highways after completing her B.S. degree in Civil Engineering. She gave birth to her only child at age 25 and then took birth control pills for the next 5 years. Due to marital differences, she separated from her husband when their son was 7 years old. A month before her 41st birthday, she noticed a lump on her left breast. Based on suspicions from her ultra sound results, a lumpectomy was done and the biopsy result was positive for breast cancer. Devastated by the findings, she immediately sought spiritual healing. Two months later, a lump recurred on the same site. Her thermal imaging 3 months later showed a severely abnormal pattern on her left breast. Embarking on a 6-week detoxification regimen, she could only complete 2 weeks. Four months later, there was already pus and bloody discharge on her wounded left breast. Upon the insistence of her parents, she subjected herself to chemotherapy which shortly led to her demise.
Annaliza Vibal-Alviar (20 May 1966 – 07 March 2009)
Diagnosed at age 41 and died 15 months later. A native of Los Banos, Laguna, her menarche was a age 12. Her entire family had long been drinking ground water (highly suspected of contamination due to their proximity to Laguna de Bay and from the rust of their pump) and only when the town water system was installed in the late ‘80s did they shift to chlorinated tap water. Anna was an elementary school teacher for a total of16 years and experienced required annual chest X-ray when she became a public school teacher at age 30. She got pregnant a year later but sadly experienced a 2-month term miscarriage and never got pregnant since and failed to undergo a D&C. At age 38, during her annual medical examination required of all public school teachers, she had five chest X-rays within one week because the technician had to keep repeating the procedure until an acceptable X-ray was done. Two years later, she noticed a lump and the result of a biopsy performed was positive. From that time onwards, she underwent numerous scans, x-rays and other diagnostic procedures because of her health card. However, most tests showed negative results and she was placed under observation and monitoring until the lump got bigger and bigger. Frustrated especially that her card limit had been reached, Anna decided not to go back to her doctor and opted for a non-toxic and non-invasive approach to her dilemma.
Diagnosed at age 41 and died 15 months later. A native of Los Banos, Laguna, her menarche was a age 12. Her entire family had long been drinking ground water (highly suspected of contamination due to their proximity to Laguna de Bay and from the rust of their pump) and only when the town water system was installed in the late ‘80s did they shift to chlorinated tap water. Anna was an elementary school teacher for a total of16 years and experienced required annual chest X-ray when she became a public school teacher at age 30. She got pregnant a year later but sadly experienced a 2-month term miscarriage and never got pregnant since and failed to undergo a D&C. At age 38, during her annual medical examination required of all public school teachers, she had five chest X-rays within one week because the technician had to keep repeating the procedure until an acceptable X-ray was done. Two years later, she noticed a lump and the result of a biopsy performed was positive. From that time onwards, she underwent numerous scans, x-rays and other diagnostic procedures because of her health card. However, most tests showed negative results and she was placed under observation and monitoring until the lump got bigger and bigger. Frustrated especially that her card limit had been reached, Anna decided not to go back to her doctor and opted for a non-toxic and non-invasive approach to her dilemma.
Teresita Q. Bajao (06 May 1953 – August 2008)
Diagnosed at age 53 and died 2 years later. A native of Bilar, Bohol, her menarche was at age13. However, Babes experienced menstruation only once a year, every November. Always, two months prior, she would experience cramps on her right leg and pain on her right abdominal side. At age 16, she was made to take hormonal pills to regulate her cycle but without the knowledge of her physician and parents, took it only for two months because she did not want to experience the monthly difficulties she saw from other girls. Upon finishing her B.S. degree in Pharmacy, she operated a drugstore. About a year after her marriage at age 27, she gave birth to her first child but was only able to breast feed for a month. She was then only able to menstruate for 3 consecutive months and after which, was back to an annual menstruation until she became pregnant with her 2nd child two years later. Thereafter, her menstruation was again once a year until age 42 when it became monthly. Five years later, it became 4 times a year and 3 years later, twice a year. Her 2nd eldest sister was diagnosed at age 45 with breast cancer 20 years after relocating to Chicago and who died a year after surgery and chemotherapy. Her 5th elder sister was diagnosed at age 51 with breast cancer after 20 years after relocating to New Jersey. Both worked in hospitals, the former as a medical technologist and the latter, as a graveyard nurse. At age 52, Babes felt a lump in her right breast but it was only after 7 months that she had a mammogram done, which was suspicious for malignancy and a biopsy confirmed ductal carcinoma. Grade 1. She was then made to undergo a chest x-ray and CT-Scan in preparation for breast surgery and chemotherapy. It was this point that she started searching for an alternative approach, not wanting to experience the toxic and invasive procedures done on her sisters and others she saw. She underwent a thermal imaging, which showed an abnormal pattern on her right breast. With the full support of her husband and children, Babes embarked on a non-conventional and non-traditional regimen to confront her condition.
Diagnosed at age 53 and died 2 years later. A native of Bilar, Bohol, her menarche was at age13. However, Babes experienced menstruation only once a year, every November. Always, two months prior, she would experience cramps on her right leg and pain on her right abdominal side. At age 16, she was made to take hormonal pills to regulate her cycle but without the knowledge of her physician and parents, took it only for two months because she did not want to experience the monthly difficulties she saw from other girls. Upon finishing her B.S. degree in Pharmacy, she operated a drugstore. About a year after her marriage at age 27, she gave birth to her first child but was only able to breast feed for a month. She was then only able to menstruate for 3 consecutive months and after which, was back to an annual menstruation until she became pregnant with her 2nd child two years later. Thereafter, her menstruation was again once a year until age 42 when it became monthly. Five years later, it became 4 times a year and 3 years later, twice a year. Her 2nd eldest sister was diagnosed at age 45 with breast cancer 20 years after relocating to Chicago and who died a year after surgery and chemotherapy. Her 5th elder sister was diagnosed at age 51 with breast cancer after 20 years after relocating to New Jersey. Both worked in hospitals, the former as a medical technologist and the latter, as a graveyard nurse. At age 52, Babes felt a lump in her right breast but it was only after 7 months that she had a mammogram done, which was suspicious for malignancy and a biopsy confirmed ductal carcinoma. Grade 1. She was then made to undergo a chest x-ray and CT-Scan in preparation for breast surgery and chemotherapy. It was this point that she started searching for an alternative approach, not wanting to experience the toxic and invasive procedures done on her sisters and others she saw. She underwent a thermal imaging, which showed an abnormal pattern on her right breast. With the full support of her husband and children, Babes embarked on a non-conventional and non-traditional regimen to confront her condition.
Anna Maria D. Berio (28 November 1955 – 17 April 2005)
Diagnosed at age 47 and died 2 years later. Born in San Carlos City, Negros Occidental, Anna gave birth to two childen.. She was a Senior Customer Service Officer of the local water district. On May, 2003 she had mastectomy , followed by 6 cycles of chemotherapy from June to October and finally 25 days of radiation from November to December. She was able to participate in the PBCN's Project BRCA 7 from 21-25 October 2004 in Tiaong Breast Haven. Nene will always be remembered for her remark, “Wan Toy,” which in her native Ilonggo tongue means, “one breast.” She also shared how she used a condom filled with water to place in the right side of her bra instead of the expensive prosthesis. She was hoping to organize patients in her locality.
Diagnosed at age 47 and died 2 years later. Born in San Carlos City, Negros Occidental, Anna gave birth to two childen.. She was a Senior Customer Service Officer of the local water district. On May, 2003 she had mastectomy , followed by 6 cycles of chemotherapy from June to October and finally 25 days of radiation from November to December. She was able to participate in the PBCN's Project BRCA 7 from 21-25 October 2004 in Tiaong Breast Haven. Nene will always be remembered for her remark, “Wan Toy,” which in her native Ilonggo tongue means, “one breast.” She also shared how she used a condom filled with water to place in the right side of her bra instead of the expensive prosthesis. She was hoping to organize patients in her locality.
Ma. Victoria M. Cailao (10 February 1963 - 2005)
Diagnosed at age 40 and died 2 years later. Born in Macabebe, Pampanga, her menarche was at age 14. Marivic finished only high school and worked as a caddie for 20 years in the Ayala Golf & Country Club. She first noticed a lump in her left breast at age 34 but upon excision was found to be negative. Three years later, a lump recurred in the same site but she did not give it further thought until another three years when she noticed a discharge. Upon the prodding of a regular female golfer of hers, she underwent a mastectomy at age 40 and was diagnosed with Stage 3B breast cancer with 2/3 lymph nodes positive. Eight months later, she underwent chemotherapy, followed by radiation another 7 months later. Ever since her mastectomy in 2003, she has been suffering from lymph edema and never was she told how to manage it. Desperation drove her to seek help from all her golfing clients and pursue alternative means but only to submit once again to another round of chemotherapy upon the insistence of her female benefactor.
Diagnosed at age 40 and died 2 years later. Born in Macabebe, Pampanga, her menarche was at age 14. Marivic finished only high school and worked as a caddie for 20 years in the Ayala Golf & Country Club. She first noticed a lump in her left breast at age 34 but upon excision was found to be negative. Three years later, a lump recurred in the same site but she did not give it further thought until another three years when she noticed a discharge. Upon the prodding of a regular female golfer of hers, she underwent a mastectomy at age 40 and was diagnosed with Stage 3B breast cancer with 2/3 lymph nodes positive. Eight months later, she underwent chemotherapy, followed by radiation another 7 months later. Ever since her mastectomy in 2003, she has been suffering from lymph edema and never was she told how to manage it. Desperation drove her to seek help from all her golfing clients and pursue alternative means but only to submit once again to another round of chemotherapy upon the insistence of her female benefactor.
Virginia Capada (23 Sept 1949 – 4 June 2003)
Diagnosed at age 52 and died 2 years later. Born in Dumaguete City in 1949, her menarche was at age 15. Virgie gave birth to her only child at age 31 only to become a single parent a month later. She worked for a multinational chemical/pharmaceutical company for 20 years only to be terminated due to her active role in the labor union. In May 2000, Virgie noticed a hard lump and discharge on her right breast. Upon medical consultation, she was told to have breast cancer but initially refused any invasive procedures. A year later, her daughter convinced her to undergo a mastectomy. She however discontinued her chemotherapy after only 2 sessions because of the severely adverse side effects. Virgie then sought alternative treatments though by this time, she was already suffering from an aggressive recurrence of a blown up lump on her affected side. Not any more wanting to go back to conventional treatment, Virgie decided to pursue non-toxic and non-invasive measures till the very end. She had wanted to see her last days in her hometown but she couldn’t anymore travel because of her worsening physical condition.
Diagnosed at age 52 and died 2 years later. Born in Dumaguete City in 1949, her menarche was at age 15. Virgie gave birth to her only child at age 31 only to become a single parent a month later. She worked for a multinational chemical/pharmaceutical company for 20 years only to be terminated due to her active role in the labor union. In May 2000, Virgie noticed a hard lump and discharge on her right breast. Upon medical consultation, she was told to have breast cancer but initially refused any invasive procedures. A year later, her daughter convinced her to undergo a mastectomy. She however discontinued her chemotherapy after only 2 sessions because of the severely adverse side effects. Virgie then sought alternative treatments though by this time, she was already suffering from an aggressive recurrence of a blown up lump on her affected side. Not any more wanting to go back to conventional treatment, Virgie decided to pursue non-toxic and non-invasive measures till the very end. She had wanted to see her last days in her hometown but she couldn’t anymore travel because of her worsening physical condition.
Maria Corazon Lebrilla Cidro (12 March 1975 – 05 October 2012)
Diagnosed at age 34 and died 3 years later. A BS in Food Technology Graduate at UP Los Banos, Wek started teaching chemistry at the High School Department of La Salle in Canlubang, Laguna in 2004.
In July 2009, Wek was diagnosed with breast cancer Stage 2. She underwent lumpectomy, mastectomy,
8 cycles of chemotherapy, 30 sessions of radiation and took Xeloda for 9 months before another 6 weeks of IV chemotherapy a few months before she passed away. Wek has joined hundreds of breast cancer victims from the noble teaching profession – an occupational risk factor for breast cancer in the Philippines.
Diagnosed at age 34 and died 3 years later. A BS in Food Technology Graduate at UP Los Banos, Wek started teaching chemistry at the High School Department of La Salle in Canlubang, Laguna in 2004.
In July 2009, Wek was diagnosed with breast cancer Stage 2. She underwent lumpectomy, mastectomy,
8 cycles of chemotherapy, 30 sessions of radiation and took Xeloda for 9 months before another 6 weeks of IV chemotherapy a few months before she passed away. Wek has joined hundreds of breast cancer victims from the noble teaching profession – an occupational risk factor for breast cancer in the Philippines.
Lenirose Esapanol- Cuartero (03 August 1966 - 9 Sep 1999)
Diagnosed at age 31 and died 2 years later. A public school teacher in Pateros, Rizal – Leni underwent surgery and chemotherapy at the Rizal Medical Center in Pasig City. An early member of the PBCN, she spoke of her difficulties during the 1st Philippine Conference on Breast Cancer in 1997. Her youngest, Elaine Rose was only 6 years old when she passed away. After a successful plenary at the Ottawa World Conference, the PBCN's Rosa Meneses was in San Francisco to meet with other breast cancer groups when she learned of Leni's passage. This shook up Rosa and she couldn't bear the thought because Leni's youngest was the same age as her youngest daughter. Leni's early passage prompted Rosa to cut short her stay in California and flew immediately back to Manila to be with her children.
Diagnosed at age 31 and died 2 years later. A public school teacher in Pateros, Rizal – Leni underwent surgery and chemotherapy at the Rizal Medical Center in Pasig City. An early member of the PBCN, she spoke of her difficulties during the 1st Philippine Conference on Breast Cancer in 1997. Her youngest, Elaine Rose was only 6 years old when she passed away. After a successful plenary at the Ottawa World Conference, the PBCN's Rosa Meneses was in San Francisco to meet with other breast cancer groups when she learned of Leni's passage. This shook up Rosa and she couldn't bear the thought because Leni's youngest was the same age as her youngest daughter. Leni's early passage prompted Rosa to cut short her stay in California and flew immediately back to Manila to be with her children.
Marie Joy S. dela Torre (21 September 1956 – 27 July 2006)
Diagnosed at age 47 and died 2 years later. Born in Tubod, Surigao del Norte. With an MBA Degree, Joy worked as a Trainor in the government’s TESDA Women’s Center. At age 45, a mammography done had negative findings of breast cancer. However, when she was in the United States two years later, she was said to have Stage 4 with bone metastasis. Wanting to be with other patients, she traveled all the way to participate in the PBCN's Project BRCA 9 from 15-19 September 2005 in Tiaong Breast Haven. She already had difficulty breathing and was not able to join the climb.
Diagnosed at age 47 and died 2 years later. Born in Tubod, Surigao del Norte. With an MBA Degree, Joy worked as a Trainor in the government’s TESDA Women’s Center. At age 45, a mammography done had negative findings of breast cancer. However, when she was in the United States two years later, she was said to have Stage 4 with bone metastasis. Wanting to be with other patients, she traveled all the way to participate in the PBCN's Project BRCA 9 from 15-19 September 2005 in Tiaong Breast Haven. She already had difficulty breathing and was not able to join the climb.
Alexandra Delos Reyes (20 Nov 1973 – 10 Aug 200)
Diagnosed at age 26, died 2 yrs later. Though a previous mammogram done resulted in benign findings, she was later said to have Stage III breast cancer on October 1999.
Diagnosed at age 26, died 2 yrs later. Though a previous mammogram done resulted in benign findings, she was later said to have Stage III breast cancer on October 1999.
Myrna P. Deona (29 May 1958 – 28 December 2006)
Diagnosed at age 47 and died a year later. Born in Quezon City on 29 May 1958, her menarche was at age 12. With the only sister as the eldest in the family, Myrna was the 4th child after two elder brothers and was followed by 4 younger brothers. With a father in the military service and in between two brothers in the military as well, Myrna also wanted to enter the military service upon completing her B.S. in Nursing. She was however prevailed upon by her family to instead be employed with the Department of National Defense. This she did and since age 30, Myrna has been an occupational health nurse at the Government Arsenal Hospital in Bataan. A few days before her 43rd birthday, a lump removed from her right breast was found to be benign. Four years later on Valentine’s Day, another lump was removed from her left breast and was again found to be benign. However, just six months later, a fine needle aspiration biopsy of her left breast was positive for IDC. She immediately underwent four cycles of induction chemo at a government hospital in preparation for surgery. Two weeks before Christmas, Myrna had a radical mastectomy of her left breast and was diagnosed with Stage 3A breast cancer with 7/10 lymph nodes positive. Exactly a month later, Myrna was subjected to 25 exposures of cobalt treatment. And because her follow-up bone scan was clear, she then underwent six cycles of chemotherapy less than two months later. The day after her last chemo session, Myrna reported back to work. Eleven days later, Myrna was diagnosed with pulmonary tuberculosis and given a prescription for anti-TB drugs. Then a month later, she had an incision biopsy of a recurrence in her left axillary, which was positive of cancer. She was then subjected to linear accelerator three weeks later but only completed 10 of the 15 prescribed due to the growth of a lump on her right breast. Two weeks after, she was confined due to possible pneumonia and received anti-biotics for this. A week later, her CT Scan showed her positive for lung metastasis. She was discharged from the hospital 5 days later and decided to go home to Legaspi City. Then 3 weeks later, Myrna decided to undergo detoxification at the PBCN’s Tiaong Breast Haven. She intended to stay for six weeks until Christmas Day when she will have finished the regimen. However, she started to have breathing difficulties midway in her protocol and was rushed to the Lung Center to enable her to go back to Legaspi City and spend her remaining days with family.
Diagnosed at age 47 and died a year later. Born in Quezon City on 29 May 1958, her menarche was at age 12. With the only sister as the eldest in the family, Myrna was the 4th child after two elder brothers and was followed by 4 younger brothers. With a father in the military service and in between two brothers in the military as well, Myrna also wanted to enter the military service upon completing her B.S. in Nursing. She was however prevailed upon by her family to instead be employed with the Department of National Defense. This she did and since age 30, Myrna has been an occupational health nurse at the Government Arsenal Hospital in Bataan. A few days before her 43rd birthday, a lump removed from her right breast was found to be benign. Four years later on Valentine’s Day, another lump was removed from her left breast and was again found to be benign. However, just six months later, a fine needle aspiration biopsy of her left breast was positive for IDC. She immediately underwent four cycles of induction chemo at a government hospital in preparation for surgery. Two weeks before Christmas, Myrna had a radical mastectomy of her left breast and was diagnosed with Stage 3A breast cancer with 7/10 lymph nodes positive. Exactly a month later, Myrna was subjected to 25 exposures of cobalt treatment. And because her follow-up bone scan was clear, she then underwent six cycles of chemotherapy less than two months later. The day after her last chemo session, Myrna reported back to work. Eleven days later, Myrna was diagnosed with pulmonary tuberculosis and given a prescription for anti-TB drugs. Then a month later, she had an incision biopsy of a recurrence in her left axillary, which was positive of cancer. She was then subjected to linear accelerator three weeks later but only completed 10 of the 15 prescribed due to the growth of a lump on her right breast. Two weeks after, she was confined due to possible pneumonia and received anti-biotics for this. A week later, her CT Scan showed her positive for lung metastasis. She was discharged from the hospital 5 days later and decided to go home to Legaspi City. Then 3 weeks later, Myrna decided to undergo detoxification at the PBCN’s Tiaong Breast Haven. She intended to stay for six weeks until Christmas Day when she will have finished the regimen. However, she started to have breathing difficulties midway in her protocol and was rushed to the Lung Center to enable her to go back to Legaspi City and spend her remaining days with family.
Vicenta B. Escudero (5 April 1949 – 20 July 2003)
Diagnosed at age 52 and died 2 years later. Born in Zamboanga City, her menarche was at age 11. Upon graduation from college, Vera became a nun who taught at a catholic school. Five months after her 51st birthday, she noticed a lump on her left breast. She didn’t give it much thought thinking it was her period of menopause. Her doctor prescribed HRT for 3 months but she soon she observed that the lump grew in size. Upon mentioning this to her doctor a mammogram and needle biopsy were done. Though the results were both negative, she just sensed something wrong. She sought a 2nd medical opinion two months later and an incision biopsy showed malignancy. She was first given 4 cycles of chemotherapy to reduce the lump before her mastectomy four months later. Though with only 2/5 lymph nodes found positive, she was diagnosed with Stage 3 breast cancer. Being negative in her estrogen receptor test, she was not prescribed further medication (although she was already subjected to chemotherapy prior to surgery). Just 11 months after her mastectomy, she had a recurrence on the same site. She was then referred to an oncologist in Manila who advised her to undergo chemotherapy. Infuriated with the three different medical handling of her case, she did not agree. She felt being first made to undergo chemo, then advised not to, then to do it made her doubt conventional practice. She then took it upon herself to learn more about her disease and undergo a thermal imaging 11 months later. The result showed a severely abnormal pattern on her post-mastectomy site. Vera pursued a non-toxic and non-invasive measures in confronting breast cancer till the end.
Diagnosed at age 52 and died 2 years later. Born in Zamboanga City, her menarche was at age 11. Upon graduation from college, Vera became a nun who taught at a catholic school. Five months after her 51st birthday, she noticed a lump on her left breast. She didn’t give it much thought thinking it was her period of menopause. Her doctor prescribed HRT for 3 months but she soon she observed that the lump grew in size. Upon mentioning this to her doctor a mammogram and needle biopsy were done. Though the results were both negative, she just sensed something wrong. She sought a 2nd medical opinion two months later and an incision biopsy showed malignancy. She was first given 4 cycles of chemotherapy to reduce the lump before her mastectomy four months later. Though with only 2/5 lymph nodes found positive, she was diagnosed with Stage 3 breast cancer. Being negative in her estrogen receptor test, she was not prescribed further medication (although she was already subjected to chemotherapy prior to surgery). Just 11 months after her mastectomy, she had a recurrence on the same site. She was then referred to an oncologist in Manila who advised her to undergo chemotherapy. Infuriated with the three different medical handling of her case, she did not agree. She felt being first made to undergo chemo, then advised not to, then to do it made her doubt conventional practice. She then took it upon herself to learn more about her disease and undergo a thermal imaging 11 months later. The result showed a severely abnormal pattern on her post-mastectomy site. Vera pursued a non-toxic and non-invasive measures in confronting breast cancer till the end.
Patria Angelica Ledesma-Jimenez (4 June 1950 – 1 September 2006)
Diagnosed at age 53, died 3 years later. Born on in Zamboanga City, her menarche was at age 14. Though not having been able to finish college, she was able to work as a clerk at the City Treasurer’s Office. Patsy gave birth to 4 children at ages 20, 23, 27 and 31. Upon the same time that she was experiencing menopause at age 51, she noticed a lump on her right breast. She took it simply as being due to hormonal changes in her system. Two years later, the lump had increased in size. She sought medical attention and a biopsy done was positive for malignancy. A few weeks later, she underwent a mastectomy and was diagnosed with Stage 2B breast cancer. Chemotherapy followed but she discontinued after only two sessions because of intolerable side effects. Two months later, she underwent thermal imaging, which showed a severely abnormal pattern on her right post-mastectomy site. She opted for non-toxic and non-invasive measures in confronting breast cancer. A repeat thermal imaging five months later showed less heat on the affected area. Patsy devoted the rest of her life in reaching out to others when she became active in the Western Mindanao Breast Cancer Action in Zamboanga City. She helped in holding the PBCN's Project BRCA 8 from 19-21 November 2004 in Zamboanga City.
Diagnosed at age 53, died 3 years later. Born on in Zamboanga City, her menarche was at age 14. Though not having been able to finish college, she was able to work as a clerk at the City Treasurer’s Office. Patsy gave birth to 4 children at ages 20, 23, 27 and 31. Upon the same time that she was experiencing menopause at age 51, she noticed a lump on her right breast. She took it simply as being due to hormonal changes in her system. Two years later, the lump had increased in size. She sought medical attention and a biopsy done was positive for malignancy. A few weeks later, she underwent a mastectomy and was diagnosed with Stage 2B breast cancer. Chemotherapy followed but she discontinued after only two sessions because of intolerable side effects. Two months later, she underwent thermal imaging, which showed a severely abnormal pattern on her right post-mastectomy site. She opted for non-toxic and non-invasive measures in confronting breast cancer. A repeat thermal imaging five months later showed less heat on the affected area. Patsy devoted the rest of her life in reaching out to others when she became active in the Western Mindanao Breast Cancer Action in Zamboanga City. She helped in holding the PBCN's Project BRCA 8 from 19-21 November 2004 in Zamboanga City.
Roberta D. Llaneras (7 June 1961 – 2003)
Diagnosed at age 40 and died 2 years later. Born in Sariyaya, Quezon. Already in an advance stage, she was brought to Tiaong Breast Haven by the ambulance of her municipality. Palliative measure were done to address her swollen arm as well as the wounds on her chest which had hardened after all the treatments (surgery, chemo and radiation) done at the Quezon Provincial Hospital in Lucena City.
Diagnosed at age 40 and died 2 years later. Born in Sariyaya, Quezon. Already in an advance stage, she was brought to Tiaong Breast Haven by the ambulance of her municipality. Palliative measure were done to address her swollen arm as well as the wounds on her chest which had hardened after all the treatments (surgery, chemo and radiation) done at the Quezon Provincial Hospital in Lucena City.
Teofila G. Marcos (27 December 1960 – March 2006)
Diagnosed at age 43 and died 2 years later. A dressmaker with 3 children from Bulacan, her biopsy results showed Stage 2.
Diagnosed at age 43 and died 2 years later. A dressmaker with 3 children from Bulacan, her biopsy results showed Stage 2.
Myrna A. Mendoza – Liliw, Laguna(7 March 1963 – June 2004)
Diagnosed at age 39, died 2 years later. Myrna was a participant of BRCA 3 on April 30- May 4 2003 at Tiaong Breast Haven.
Diagnosed at age 39, died 2 years later. Myrna was a participant of BRCA 3 on April 30- May 4 2003 at Tiaong Breast Haven.
Jean A. Mulingtapang (28 August 1954 - 20 February 2006)
Diagnosed at age 48 and died 3 years later. Born in Bacolod City, her menarche was at age 12. Of Chinese ethnic origin, she helped out in her family’s hardware business after college. Upon marriage, she relocated to Tanauan, Batangas, the hometown of her husband and together engaged in the hardware business. She gave birth to four children at ages 30, 32, 35 and 43 but did not breastfeed any of them. She started taking birth control pills after her first childbirth. Two months after her 48th birthday, she noticed a lump on her right breast. Being from a family of medical doctors, a lumpectomy was promptly done and then a mastectomy a week later in Bacolod City. First diagnosed with Stage 1 breast cancer, she was later diagnosed with Stage 2 with 2/16 lymph nodes found positive. She then underwent 6-cycles of chemotherapy upon her return to Tanauan. A year later, upon the insistence of her husband, she underwent thermal imaging to know of her condition. The result showed a severely abnormal thermal pattern on her right post mastectomy site. This prompted her to pursue non-toxic and non-invasive measures to address her condition.
Diagnosed at age 48 and died 3 years later. Born in Bacolod City, her menarche was at age 12. Of Chinese ethnic origin, she helped out in her family’s hardware business after college. Upon marriage, she relocated to Tanauan, Batangas, the hometown of her husband and together engaged in the hardware business. She gave birth to four children at ages 30, 32, 35 and 43 but did not breastfeed any of them. She started taking birth control pills after her first childbirth. Two months after her 48th birthday, she noticed a lump on her right breast. Being from a family of medical doctors, a lumpectomy was promptly done and then a mastectomy a week later in Bacolod City. First diagnosed with Stage 1 breast cancer, she was later diagnosed with Stage 2 with 2/16 lymph nodes found positive. She then underwent 6-cycles of chemotherapy upon her return to Tanauan. A year later, upon the insistence of her husband, she underwent thermal imaging to know of her condition. The result showed a severely abnormal thermal pattern on her right post mastectomy site. This prompted her to pursue non-toxic and non-invasive measures to address her condition.
Anna D. Munsod (5 October 1953 – 2002)
Diagnosed at age 48 and died a year later. A native of Cavite, Anna’s menarche was at age 12. A housekeeper, she gave birth at ages 27 and 32. She first felt pain in her left breast at age 47. Thinking it was not much of a concern, she just took analgesics till the pain subsided. A year later, the same discomforts persisted and she sought medical intervention. A biopsy was done and diagnosed of having an active tumor. Due to financial constraints, Anna went to a local healer for a year, believing she would be cured. The lump however increased in size and created 3 big wounds. She hid it from her family, saying that she was ok while placing a towel over her right breast to make it the same size as her enlarged left breast. Only when she had severe pain, excessive pus discharge and foul smell, did she finally confide her situation to her husband.
Diagnosed at age 48 and died a year later. A native of Cavite, Anna’s menarche was at age 12. A housekeeper, she gave birth at ages 27 and 32. She first felt pain in her left breast at age 47. Thinking it was not much of a concern, she just took analgesics till the pain subsided. A year later, the same discomforts persisted and she sought medical intervention. A biopsy was done and diagnosed of having an active tumor. Due to financial constraints, Anna went to a local healer for a year, believing she would be cured. The lump however increased in size and created 3 big wounds. She hid it from her family, saying that she was ok while placing a towel over her right breast to make it the same size as her enlarged left breast. Only when she had severe pain, excessive pus discharge and foul smell, did she finally confide her situation to her husband.
Helen C. Murphy (13 October 1966 – 21 January 2007)
Diagnosed at age 39 and died a year later. Born in Hinunanga, Southern Leyte, her menarche was at age 13. Len finished only high school and migrated to Manila in 1985 where she gave birth to her first child in 1989 at age 23. She gave birth to her second child two years later and started to experience irregular menstruation (with intervals of 3 months). Thereafter, she took Nordiol birth control pills supplied for free by a government community health center for nine continuous years within a span of 13 years. In augmenting her husband’s meager income, she has been a barbecue vendor in Pasay City for the past 18 years. At age 38, Len gave birth to her third child in June 2004 and eight months after noticed a small lump on her right breast. By early 2006, the lump had already grown and there was already a whitish discharge from the nipple of her right breast. She declined undergoing biopsy for fear that she might be made to undergo surgery and lead to aggravating her condition. She had seen how a relative and a neighbor died within a year after breast surgery and she feared for her own life. On May 2006, her right breast already had a large open wound it was only then that she took courage to in address her health situation. But by that time, the cancer had already spread to her lungs.
Diagnosed at age 39 and died a year later. Born in Hinunanga, Southern Leyte, her menarche was at age 13. Len finished only high school and migrated to Manila in 1985 where she gave birth to her first child in 1989 at age 23. She gave birth to her second child two years later and started to experience irregular menstruation (with intervals of 3 months). Thereafter, she took Nordiol birth control pills supplied for free by a government community health center for nine continuous years within a span of 13 years. In augmenting her husband’s meager income, she has been a barbecue vendor in Pasay City for the past 18 years. At age 38, Len gave birth to her third child in June 2004 and eight months after noticed a small lump on her right breast. By early 2006, the lump had already grown and there was already a whitish discharge from the nipple of her right breast. She declined undergoing biopsy for fear that she might be made to undergo surgery and lead to aggravating her condition. She had seen how a relative and a neighbor died within a year after breast surgery and she feared for her own life. On May 2006, her right breast already had a large open wound it was only then that she took courage to in address her health situation. But by that time, the cancer had already spread to her lungs.
Gavina J. Ocat (29 August 1927 – 9 December 2003)
Lump first noticed on June 2001 at age 74 and died 2 years later. A native of Cebu, she gave birth at ages of 22, 32, 34 and 38. She had kept her breast problem from her children, not wanting them to worry and spend for her. Only when her youngest daughter found out that her breast was already bleeding profusely did her breast situation alarm her children. However, their mother did not want to go to any hospital and undergo any medical procedure. This prompted her youngest child, Leonora to seek a non-medical option acceptable to her mother. For almost two years, instructions on alternative care and natural supplements were sent from Manila and which were religiously done by her mother.
Lump first noticed on June 2001 at age 74 and died 2 years later. A native of Cebu, she gave birth at ages of 22, 32, 34 and 38. She had kept her breast problem from her children, not wanting them to worry and spend for her. Only when her youngest daughter found out that her breast was already bleeding profusely did her breast situation alarm her children. However, their mother did not want to go to any hospital and undergo any medical procedure. This prompted her youngest child, Leonora to seek a non-medical option acceptable to her mother. For almost two years, instructions on alternative care and natural supplements were sent from Manila and which were religiously done by her mother.
Jeannette P. Opeña (1 May 1965 - Aug 2004)
Diagnosed at age 36, died 3 years later. Born on 1 May 1965 in Atimonan, Quezon, her menarche was at age 16. Jeannette gave birth to her two children at ages 31 & 33. She first felt a lump at age 36 sought medical opinion. The first biopsy smear was negative but the third one was positive. A week later, she underwent a lumpectomy and was diagnosed with Stage 1 breast cancer. She kept her health condition from her family, especially her husband who was an overseas worker in the Middle East. She did not want her husband to worry because he was planning to have her join him where he worked.
Diagnosed at age 36, died 3 years later. Born on 1 May 1965 in Atimonan, Quezon, her menarche was at age 16. Jeannette gave birth to her two children at ages 31 & 33. She first felt a lump at age 36 sought medical opinion. The first biopsy smear was negative but the third one was positive. A week later, she underwent a lumpectomy and was diagnosed with Stage 1 breast cancer. She kept her health condition from her family, especially her husband who was an overseas worker in the Middle East. She did not want her husband to worry because he was planning to have her join him where he worked.
Menerda M. Salayo (21 January 1958 - 2004)
Diagnosed at age 44 and died two years later. Born in Sampaloc, Quezon in 1958, her menarche was at age 12. Upon graduation from college. Mener was employed in government service. At age 43, she noticed a hard lump on her right breast. Her biopsy was positive. Five months later, she underwent a mastectomy and was diagnosed with Stage 3B breast cancer. She then submitted herself for chemotherapy but was only able to finish 2 cycles due to the adverse side effects. Her husband-to-be was not aware of her health status and this made her more depressed. She was able to participate in the PBCN's Project BRCA 3 from April 30 - May 4 in 2003 and after which embarked on the detox protocol to hopefully address her advanced ailment.
Diagnosed at age 44 and died two years later. Born in Sampaloc, Quezon in 1958, her menarche was at age 12. Upon graduation from college. Mener was employed in government service. At age 43, she noticed a hard lump on her right breast. Her biopsy was positive. Five months later, she underwent a mastectomy and was diagnosed with Stage 3B breast cancer. She then submitted herself for chemotherapy but was only able to finish 2 cycles due to the adverse side effects. Her husband-to-be was not aware of her health status and this made her more depressed. She was able to participate in the PBCN's Project BRCA 3 from April 30 - May 4 in 2003 and after which embarked on the detox protocol to hopefully address her advanced ailment.
Carmelita M. Sanico (14 January 1948 – 26 July 2005)
Diagnosed at age 55 and died 2 years later. Born in Bocaue, Bulacan, her menarche was at age 14. Having finished only elementary level, she became a crab supplier in Baclaran, Pasay City. She gave birth to 3 children. At age 55, she noticed a yellowish discharge from her right nipple. Her thermal imaging showed an abnormal pattern on her right breast and underwent a non-toxic and non-invasive regimen. But upon the insistence of her sister, an incision biopsy was done but though the result was benign, a lumpectomy was performed. Still the biopsy result was benign.
Diagnosed at age 55 and died 2 years later. Born in Bocaue, Bulacan, her menarche was at age 14. Having finished only elementary level, she became a crab supplier in Baclaran, Pasay City. She gave birth to 3 children. At age 55, she noticed a yellowish discharge from her right nipple. Her thermal imaging showed an abnormal pattern on her right breast and underwent a non-toxic and non-invasive regimen. But upon the insistence of her sister, an incision biopsy was done but though the result was benign, a lumpectomy was performed. Still the biopsy result was benign.
Catalina T. Tangtang (15 February – 13 October 2002)
Diagnosed at age 45 and died 3 years later. Born in Tambulig, Zamboanga del Sur, she worked as a manicurist at a beauty parlor for 9 years. At age 45, she had a biopsy for a lump on her breast and was diagnosed with breast cancer. Due to financial difficulties, it was only two years later that she underwent a mastectomy at UP=PGH in Manila and was diagnosed to be in Stage 4. Still, she was given chemotherapy but she could only afford the cost of 3 sessions. While still physically able to travel, she decided to go back to her hometown where she spent her remaining days.
Diagnosed at age 45 and died 3 years later. Born in Tambulig, Zamboanga del Sur, she worked as a manicurist at a beauty parlor for 9 years. At age 45, she had a biopsy for a lump on her breast and was diagnosed with breast cancer. Due to financial difficulties, it was only two years later that she underwent a mastectomy at UP=PGH in Manila and was diagnosed to be in Stage 4. Still, she was given chemotherapy but she could only afford the cost of 3 sessions. While still physically able to travel, she decided to go back to her hometown where she spent her remaining days.
Anna Frieda Q. Villagonzalo (22 December 1969 – 20 June 2006)
Diagnosed at age 33 and died 3 years later. Born in Talisay, Negros Oriental. Anna gave birth to her only child at age 24. She worked an auditor of a major shopping mall. Upon self-examination three months after her 33th birthday, she noticed a lump in her right breast and a biopsy done was positive for malignancy. She was promptly subjected to a mastectomy and diagnosed with Stage 3 breast cancer. She was then submitted to 6 cycles of chemotherapy, followed by 28 days of radiotherapy. Anna was a participant of Project BRCA 6 in August 2004 held at Tiaong Breast Haven.
Diagnosed at age 33 and died 3 years later. Born in Talisay, Negros Oriental. Anna gave birth to her only child at age 24. She worked an auditor of a major shopping mall. Upon self-examination three months after her 33th birthday, she noticed a lump in her right breast and a biopsy done was positive for malignancy. She was promptly subjected to a mastectomy and diagnosed with Stage 3 breast cancer. She was then submitted to 6 cycles of chemotherapy, followed by 28 days of radiotherapy. Anna was a participant of Project BRCA 6 in August 2004 held at Tiaong Breast Haven.
Lolita V. Villareal - (29 July 1955 – 31 January 2006)
Diagnosed at age 49, died 18 months later. Born in Gen Santos City
Lolit participated in the PBCN's Project BRCA 7 from 20 -24 October 2004.
Diagnosed at age 49, died 18 months later. Born in Gen Santos City
Lolit participated in the PBCN's Project BRCA 7 from 20 -24 October 2004.
Prevention is the Cure!
It has been more than 40 years since much efforts and resources have been poured
into research for the cure and still there are no guarantees.
Julie B. Acuña (04 February 1953 – August 2008)
Diagnosed at age 45 and died 10 years later. Born on 4 February 1953 in Ozamis City, her menarche was at age 12. Julie gave birth at ages 24, 25, 31 and 37- the last by caesarian section. A dedicated public school teacher, it was on October 1997 that she first felt a lump on right breast. After a mammogram and ultrasound, she underwent frozen section on May 1998 in Davao without her consent. Diagnosed with IDC Stage III, chemo June-July, only 2 sessions due to financial constraints. 2000 recurrence and underwent 3 cycles of chemo. 2001, noted a small nodule. In 2003, it had enlarged. June-August, underwent radiation therapy. In 2006, she finally went to Tiaong Breast Haven On December the dame year, she organized a 2-day PBCN symposium in Cotabato City with the help of her church members.
Diagnosed at age 45 and died 10 years later. Born on 4 February 1953 in Ozamis City, her menarche was at age 12. Julie gave birth at ages 24, 25, 31 and 37- the last by caesarian section. A dedicated public school teacher, it was on October 1997 that she first felt a lump on right breast. After a mammogram and ultrasound, she underwent frozen section on May 1998 in Davao without her consent. Diagnosed with IDC Stage III, chemo June-July, only 2 sessions due to financial constraints. 2000 recurrence and underwent 3 cycles of chemo. 2001, noted a small nodule. In 2003, it had enlarged. June-August, underwent radiation therapy. In 2006, she finally went to Tiaong Breast Haven On December the dame year, she organized a 2-day PBCN symposium in Cotabato City with the help of her church members.
Vivian N. Alcoreza (31 October 1950 – 28 August 2004)
Diagnosed at age 50, died 4 years later. Born in San Fernando, Pampanga
Diagnosed at age 50, died 4 years later. Born in San Fernando, Pampanga
Aida Marcelino-Ayala (17 June 1951 – 01 July 2012)
Diagnosed at age 47 and died 14 years later. Aida started work at the Central Bank in 1979, two years after her 2nd childbirth. It was a few years after her 3rd childbirth in 1980 that she first noticed small lumps on both her breasts but repeated biopsies done were all benign. Three years later, Aida had her 3th childbirth in 1986 and remained in government service until 1994 when she opted for early retirement at age 43. I At age 47, she sought medical treatment due to a growing lump on her left breast. Unfortunately, she went to a supposedly medical cancer specialist who was actually just a dispensing physician and where her condition showed no signs of improvement after years of medication. In 2003, Aida sought out the PBCN and underwent a thermal breast imaging which already showed a severely abnormal pattern on her left breast. Aida had since then pursued non-toxic and non-invasive measures and participated in several activities of the PBCN, even once organizing a breast cancer symposium by herself. On June 30th, 2012, Aida was rushed to the hospital due to severe breathing difficulties but she decided not to be confined and preferred to start her final journey in her own home and be with her entire family. A few hours later, Aida, the brave breast cancer warrior, was given her wings to fly.
Diagnosed at age 47 and died 14 years later. Aida started work at the Central Bank in 1979, two years after her 2nd childbirth. It was a few years after her 3rd childbirth in 1980 that she first noticed small lumps on both her breasts but repeated biopsies done were all benign. Three years later, Aida had her 3th childbirth in 1986 and remained in government service until 1994 when she opted for early retirement at age 43. I At age 47, she sought medical treatment due to a growing lump on her left breast. Unfortunately, she went to a supposedly medical cancer specialist who was actually just a dispensing physician and where her condition showed no signs of improvement after years of medication. In 2003, Aida sought out the PBCN and underwent a thermal breast imaging which already showed a severely abnormal pattern on her left breast. Aida had since then pursued non-toxic and non-invasive measures and participated in several activities of the PBCN, even once organizing a breast cancer symposium by herself. On June 30th, 2012, Aida was rushed to the hospital due to severe breathing difficulties but she decided not to be confined and preferred to start her final journey in her own home and be with her entire family. A few hours later, Aida, the brave breast cancer warrior, was given her wings to fly.
Teresita “Terry” Villeza Austria (24 February 1964 - 15 August 2010)
Diagnosed at age 42 and died 4 years later. From Balanga City, Bataan, Terry was only able to finish high school because her family had an eatery at a bus terminal and she had to help out since her younger years. At age 42. she underwent a frozen section and was diagnosed to be at Stage 3 with all of 16 lymph nodes removed found to be positive. A review of her medical records, showed how one after another medical procedure within a three year period caused her Stage III Breast Cancer to become Stage IV with severe lymph edema when she underwent a 2nd chemo treatment where her affected right arm was used for needle insertion. Also immediately after linear radiation, unnecessary mammography was performed on the left breast. Not only was Terry exposed to more invasive radiation, whatever result from the mammography would have been immaterial. Having undergone three chemo treatments from three accredited oncologists in three different hospitals within three years did not stop her breast cancer from metastasis in her skin, bones and left breast. Her lungs and liver had become affected. Given this condition, she was even been made to again undergo a 4th chemo treatment. Her OFW husband then opted for Terry to undergo a non-toxic and non-invasive detox protocol but although she showed positive signs of improvements, she hurried back to Bataan as she felt it best to face her final journey in the company of her children.
Diagnosed at age 42 and died 4 years later. From Balanga City, Bataan, Terry was only able to finish high school because her family had an eatery at a bus terminal and she had to help out since her younger years. At age 42. she underwent a frozen section and was diagnosed to be at Stage 3 with all of 16 lymph nodes removed found to be positive. A review of her medical records, showed how one after another medical procedure within a three year period caused her Stage III Breast Cancer to become Stage IV with severe lymph edema when she underwent a 2nd chemo treatment where her affected right arm was used for needle insertion. Also immediately after linear radiation, unnecessary mammography was performed on the left breast. Not only was Terry exposed to more invasive radiation, whatever result from the mammography would have been immaterial. Having undergone three chemo treatments from three accredited oncologists in three different hospitals within three years did not stop her breast cancer from metastasis in her skin, bones and left breast. Her lungs and liver had become affected. Given this condition, she was even been made to again undergo a 4th chemo treatment. Her OFW husband then opted for Terry to undergo a non-toxic and non-invasive detox protocol but although she showed positive signs of improvements, she hurried back to Bataan as she felt it best to face her final journey in the company of her children.
Mary Therese S. Cadungong (3 August 1970 – 12 May 2005)
Diagnosed at age 27 and died 7 years later. Born in Naga, Zamboanga del Sur, her menarche was at age 12. Eres was an architect who worked in Singapore. Four months after her 27th birthday, she experienced pain from the front to the back of her upper left breast. Two months later, she got pregnant. Various tests done at the Singapore General Hospital were indicative of breast cancer and was deemed necessary to subject her during her 3rd month of pregnancy to a frozen section and a mastectomy that showed 4/14 lymph nodes positive. She was then made undertake 6-cycles of chemotherapy a month later. However, it was decided to induce childbirth on her 7th month of pregnancy to prevent any chemo-related side effects on her unborn child. Two years later she had a recurrence and was subjected to her 2nd chemotherapy and later given Armidex oral hormone treatment. She then resigned to go back to the Philippines with her 3 year old daughter. Then a year later she had another recurrence and was subjected to her 3rd chemotherapy, followed by radiation in Manila. Four months later, surgery on her left armpit was done to remove more lymph nodes. Six months later, fluids had already accumulated in her heart and lungs and had to undergo thoracentesis and peri-cardiocentesis. She was then made to undergo her 4th chemotherapy, followed by surgical removal of all her female organs. Five months later, she was prescribed oral tamoxifen before her 5th chemotherapy with calcium treatment for the metastasis in her bones followed by her 2nd radiotherapy. She was then placed on Aromasin oral therapy.
Diagnosed at age 27 and died 7 years later. Born in Naga, Zamboanga del Sur, her menarche was at age 12. Eres was an architect who worked in Singapore. Four months after her 27th birthday, she experienced pain from the front to the back of her upper left breast. Two months later, she got pregnant. Various tests done at the Singapore General Hospital were indicative of breast cancer and was deemed necessary to subject her during her 3rd month of pregnancy to a frozen section and a mastectomy that showed 4/14 lymph nodes positive. She was then made undertake 6-cycles of chemotherapy a month later. However, it was decided to induce childbirth on her 7th month of pregnancy to prevent any chemo-related side effects on her unborn child. Two years later she had a recurrence and was subjected to her 2nd chemotherapy and later given Armidex oral hormone treatment. She then resigned to go back to the Philippines with her 3 year old daughter. Then a year later she had another recurrence and was subjected to her 3rd chemotherapy, followed by radiation in Manila. Four months later, surgery on her left armpit was done to remove more lymph nodes. Six months later, fluids had already accumulated in her heart and lungs and had to undergo thoracentesis and peri-cardiocentesis. She was then made to undergo her 4th chemotherapy, followed by surgical removal of all her female organs. Five months later, she was prescribed oral tamoxifen before her 5th chemotherapy with calcium treatment for the metastasis in her bones followed by her 2nd radiotherapy. She was then placed on Aromasin oral therapy.
Theodora F. Cruz (15 December 1934 – 4 April 2005)
Diagnosed at age 66 and died 4 years later. Born in Paco, Manila, her menarche was at age 12. Not able to finish her high school, she remained a child-free woman and became a government employee until retirement. At age 66, she felt a lump on her left breast. She was immediately submitted to frozen section biopsy and a mastectomy was done. She was diagnosed with Stage 3 breast cancer. Thereafter, she suffered from lymph edema on her left arm.
Diagnosed at age 66 and died 4 years later. Born in Paco, Manila, her menarche was at age 12. Not able to finish her high school, she remained a child-free woman and became a government employee until retirement. At age 66, she felt a lump on her left breast. She was immediately submitted to frozen section biopsy and a mastectomy was done. She was diagnosed with Stage 3 breast cancer. Thereafter, she suffered from lymph edema on her left arm.
Concepcion G. Cutay (18 Sep 1964 – 22 Jan 2011)
Diagnosed at age 36 and died 10 years later. Born in Los Baños, Laguna, her menarche was at age 12. Connie finished her Masters Degree in Development Communication at the University of the Philippines. She gave birth to her only child at age 26, whom she breastfed for 18 months. Ten years later, she noticed a lump on her right breast. Both mammogram and ultrasound results done at one of the country’s premier private hospital showed suspicions of lobular carcinoma in situ. A week later, an excision biopsy done was positive for ductal carcinoma. Four weeks later, she underwent a mastectomy and was diagnosed with Stage 1 breast cancer. A month later, she under went 6-cycles of chemotherapy. Thinking she was doing fine, she was surprised two months later to learn that her thermal imaging showed a severely abnormal pattern on her post-mastectomy site. Connie then pursed non-toxic and non-invasive regimens for nine years.
Diagnosed at age 36 and died 10 years later. Born in Los Baños, Laguna, her menarche was at age 12. Connie finished her Masters Degree in Development Communication at the University of the Philippines. She gave birth to her only child at age 26, whom she breastfed for 18 months. Ten years later, she noticed a lump on her right breast. Both mammogram and ultrasound results done at one of the country’s premier private hospital showed suspicions of lobular carcinoma in situ. A week later, an excision biopsy done was positive for ductal carcinoma. Four weeks later, she underwent a mastectomy and was diagnosed with Stage 1 breast cancer. A month later, she under went 6-cycles of chemotherapy. Thinking she was doing fine, she was surprised two months later to learn that her thermal imaging showed a severely abnormal pattern on her post-mastectomy site. Connie then pursed non-toxic and non-invasive regimens for nine years.
Susan Grace Tomale-Elias (07 Nov 55 – 17 July 2008)
Mylene P. Elisterio (22 November 1954 – 15 May 2006)
Diagnosed at age 43 and died 9 years later. Born in Magdalena, Antique, her menarche was at age 12. Having finished only 2nd Year High School, she worked as a household helper and was a child-free woman. She had underwent a mastectomy of her left breast and was then diagnosed with Stage 2 breast cancer. Due to financial limitations, she did not undergo chemotherapy. Five years later, she had a thermal imaging, which showed a severely abnormal pattern on her left breast. Mylene was a participant of the first Project BRCA in October 2002 at Tiaong Breast Haven. She pursued the non-toxic regimen she learned from the PBCN when she went back to her hometown.
Diagnosed at age 43 and died 9 years later. Born in Magdalena, Antique, her menarche was at age 12. Having finished only 2nd Year High School, she worked as a household helper and was a child-free woman. She had underwent a mastectomy of her left breast and was then diagnosed with Stage 2 breast cancer. Due to financial limitations, she did not undergo chemotherapy. Five years later, she had a thermal imaging, which showed a severely abnormal pattern on her left breast. Mylene was a participant of the first Project BRCA in October 2002 at Tiaong Breast Haven. She pursued the non-toxic regimen she learned from the PBCN when she went back to her hometown.
Ester G. Garcia – (18 May 1950- 2005)
Diagnosed at age 51 and died 4 years later. A native of Zamboanga City, Ester worked as a meat inspector of the Zamboanga City Veterinarian’s Office for 13 years. Her menarche was at age 12 and she had four childbirths: at ages 19, 21, 23 and 29. She first noticed a lump on her left breast on October 2001 and had a biopsy done a month later, followed by mastectomy 2 months later. Said to be at Stage 2, she underwent 6-cycles of chemo two months after her surgery. Encouraged by others to attend, Ester was a participant of the PBCN’s Project BRCA 5 in May 2004. She then submitted herself for thermal breast imaging to know of her condition and to her surprise, her left breast was found to show severely abnormal heat patterns. She later became instrumental in holding Project BRCA 8 in Zamboanga City on November 2004 .
Diagnosed at age 51 and died 4 years later. A native of Zamboanga City, Ester worked as a meat inspector of the Zamboanga City Veterinarian’s Office for 13 years. Her menarche was at age 12 and she had four childbirths: at ages 19, 21, 23 and 29. She first noticed a lump on her left breast on October 2001 and had a biopsy done a month later, followed by mastectomy 2 months later. Said to be at Stage 2, she underwent 6-cycles of chemo two months after her surgery. Encouraged by others to attend, Ester was a participant of the PBCN’s Project BRCA 5 in May 2004. She then submitted herself for thermal breast imaging to know of her condition and to her surprise, her left breast was found to show severely abnormal heat patterns. She later became instrumental in holding Project BRCA 8 in Zamboanga City on November 2004 .
Ma. Asuncion G. Gregorio (11 May 1961 – 20 March 2009)
Diagnosed at age 39 and died 9 years later. Born in Zamboanga City, her menarche was at age 13. Darling gave birth at a very early age of 20 and has been a single parent since then. At age 39, she noticed a lump on her right breast. A biopsy was done 4 months later and was diagnosed to have Stage 2 breast cancer. She underwent a lumpectomy, followed by a mastectomy a month later but of the 12 lymph nodes recovered, none were found to be positive. Upon medical advice, she underwent chemotherapy for 3 months. Thereafter, she was prescribed Tamoxifen for the next five years, but which she took for only a month due to the side effects she experienced. In her search to address her condition, she was able to get in contact with the PBCN and underwent a Thermal Imaging 8 months later, which showed a severe abnormality on her post-mastectomy site. A repeat thermal done 6 months later still showed persistence of the severe abnormality. Darling had since chosen to pursue a strict nutritional and detoxification regimen in confronting her health condition. Darling witnessed the start of construction of Tiaong Breast Haven in 2002. She also participated in the first Project BRCA on 25-27 October 2002. Darling later organized on 18-21 November 2004 , Project BRCA 8 in Zamboanga City. A few months before she passed away, she brought her Aunt Lety Jotie to Tiaong Breast Haven.
Diagnosed at age 39 and died 9 years later. Born in Zamboanga City, her menarche was at age 13. Darling gave birth at a very early age of 20 and has been a single parent since then. At age 39, she noticed a lump on her right breast. A biopsy was done 4 months later and was diagnosed to have Stage 2 breast cancer. She underwent a lumpectomy, followed by a mastectomy a month later but of the 12 lymph nodes recovered, none were found to be positive. Upon medical advice, she underwent chemotherapy for 3 months. Thereafter, she was prescribed Tamoxifen for the next five years, but which she took for only a month due to the side effects she experienced. In her search to address her condition, she was able to get in contact with the PBCN and underwent a Thermal Imaging 8 months later, which showed a severe abnormality on her post-mastectomy site. A repeat thermal done 6 months later still showed persistence of the severe abnormality. Darling had since chosen to pursue a strict nutritional and detoxification regimen in confronting her health condition. Darling witnessed the start of construction of Tiaong Breast Haven in 2002. She also participated in the first Project BRCA on 25-27 October 2002. Darling later organized on 18-21 November 2004 , Project BRCA 8 in Zamboanga City. A few months before she passed away, she brought her Aunt Lety Jotie to Tiaong Breast Haven.
Lina S. Imbao – Iloilo (31 May 1944 – 20 July 2001)
Diagnosed at age 48, died 9 years later.
Diagnosed at age 48, died 9 years later.
Jane F. Javier (22 Oct 1971 - 07 June 2012)
Diagnosed at age 33 and died 8 years later. From Gen. Natividad in Nueva Ecija, Jane was a very dedicated public school teacher. Her case was a non-aggressive cancer that became aggressive. She underwent mastectomy, chemo and radiation in 2004 and thinking she was cured, Jane carried on her old ways until 7 years later when she had a recurrence. She again underwent surgery mid-2011 but was now told that her cancer had already spread. This time, she refused chemo and sought out the PBCN. Strongly advised to resign from her job and concentrate on her health, she felt that her young students needed her and back to work she did when she felt better after the PBCN's protocol. By the end of classes last March, she started experiencing breathing difficulties. It may be said that she surpassed the 5-year survival rate after chemo but on the other hand, she was only Stage 1 in 2004.
Diagnosed at age 33 and died 8 years later. From Gen. Natividad in Nueva Ecija, Jane was a very dedicated public school teacher. Her case was a non-aggressive cancer that became aggressive. She underwent mastectomy, chemo and radiation in 2004 and thinking she was cured, Jane carried on her old ways until 7 years later when she had a recurrence. She again underwent surgery mid-2011 but was now told that her cancer had already spread. This time, she refused chemo and sought out the PBCN. Strongly advised to resign from her job and concentrate on her health, she felt that her young students needed her and back to work she did when she felt better after the PBCN's protocol. By the end of classes last March, she started experiencing breathing difficulties. It may be said that she surpassed the 5-year survival rate after chemo but on the other hand, she was only Stage 1 in 2004.
Miriam C. Lacanilao
Wife, mother of 3 adults and grandmother to 3. "I have undergone three surgeries. It took me eight months before I decided to undergo my third surgery thinking that the last one was still fibrocystic. I made a deal with the surgeon that if he finds something wrong with my breast, I gave him my consent to do whatever he deems best. On April 1997, I underwent a radical mastectomy. I didn’t know that unlike the previous ones found to be benign, this one would turn out malignant. It was also my decision not to undergo chemo or radiation because I was witness to three of my friends dying from being poisoned and burned. I even told my doctor that I didn’t want to die hairless and colorless. Nevertheless, he referred me to a medical oncologist after my surgery. Unfortunately, I was sent to somebody – a fair-haired “boy” of Imelda Marcos who never paid attention to me, his patient but only to my husband who was in media. It seemed it was enough for this doctor to talk with my husband. I decided never to go back to him." Miram wanted to attend the1st Philippine Conference on Breast Cancer on October, 1998 in Loyola Heights, Quezon City but instead sent her message - for indeed, it took place at Miriam College.
Wife, mother of 3 adults and grandmother to 3. "I have undergone three surgeries. It took me eight months before I decided to undergo my third surgery thinking that the last one was still fibrocystic. I made a deal with the surgeon that if he finds something wrong with my breast, I gave him my consent to do whatever he deems best. On April 1997, I underwent a radical mastectomy. I didn’t know that unlike the previous ones found to be benign, this one would turn out malignant. It was also my decision not to undergo chemo or radiation because I was witness to three of my friends dying from being poisoned and burned. I even told my doctor that I didn’t want to die hairless and colorless. Nevertheless, he referred me to a medical oncologist after my surgery. Unfortunately, I was sent to somebody – a fair-haired “boy” of Imelda Marcos who never paid attention to me, his patient but only to my husband who was in media. It seemed it was enough for this doctor to talk with my husband. I decided never to go back to him." Miram wanted to attend the1st Philippine Conference on Breast Cancer on October, 1998 in Loyola Heights, Quezon City but instead sent her message - for indeed, it took place at Miriam College.
Loyda L. Nuada (1960-2002)
Diagnosed at age 35 - Died 7 years later. Born in Camalig, Albay in 1960, she gave birth to her first child at age 19. Two years later, she had her 2nd child and thereafter, took birth control pills but stopped after 4 years due to menstrual disorders. At age 25 she became a meat vendor in the public market and had her 3rd child. Ten years later in 1995, she noticed that her right nipple had gone inside. She went for a medical check-up and a biopsy done showed positive signs of malignancy. She was immediately scheduled for a mastectomy and was diagnosed with Stage 3A with 3/16 lymph nodes found positive. This was followed with 6 cycles of chemotherapy. Four years later, she gave birth to her 4th when she noticed a lump on her left breast. Thinking she had already been cured, she thus went to several faith healers in far away places. After another year, she was confined due to an infection and was being scheduled for radiation and chemotherapy again. She refused to do so and another year passed before she did a thermal imaging. By this time, her right post mastectomy site was severely abnormal while her left breast was abnormal with a palpable mass. Already told to be in her advanced stage of cancer, she was not the type to give up. She traveled all by herself early 2002 to undergo detoxification in the hope of making her better. Back home in the province, Loyda continued non-toxic and non-invasive measures till the end.
Diagnosed at age 35 - Died 7 years later. Born in Camalig, Albay in 1960, she gave birth to her first child at age 19. Two years later, she had her 2nd child and thereafter, took birth control pills but stopped after 4 years due to menstrual disorders. At age 25 she became a meat vendor in the public market and had her 3rd child. Ten years later in 1995, she noticed that her right nipple had gone inside. She went for a medical check-up and a biopsy done showed positive signs of malignancy. She was immediately scheduled for a mastectomy and was diagnosed with Stage 3A with 3/16 lymph nodes found positive. This was followed with 6 cycles of chemotherapy. Four years later, she gave birth to her 4th when she noticed a lump on her left breast. Thinking she had already been cured, she thus went to several faith healers in far away places. After another year, she was confined due to an infection and was being scheduled for radiation and chemotherapy again. She refused to do so and another year passed before she did a thermal imaging. By this time, her right post mastectomy site was severely abnormal while her left breast was abnormal with a palpable mass. Already told to be in her advanced stage of cancer, she was not the type to give up. She traveled all by herself early 2002 to undergo detoxification in the hope of making her better. Back home in the province, Loyda continued non-toxic and non-invasive measures till the end.
Marisette Galang-Recto (22 January 1963 – 11 January 2004)
Diagnosed at age 34 and died 6 years later. Marisette was first diagnosed with Stage 1 Intra Ductal Carcinoma on June, 1997. Being young and early diagnosed, she readily submitted to a lumpectomy w/ axillary dissection, chemotherapy, linear accelerator. A year later, Marisette co-founded the Bosom Buddies, a breast cancer support group. In October 1999, she was a speaker at the 2nd Philippine Conference on Breast Cancer. Devastated upon learning that the cancer had gone to her liver, Marisette decided it would be best for her to pursue further treatment at Stanford University Hospital in California. Mid-2001, Marisette declared, “Wait till I come back home and I will be a more outspoken activist!”
Diagnosed at age 34 and died 6 years later. Marisette was first diagnosed with Stage 1 Intra Ductal Carcinoma on June, 1997. Being young and early diagnosed, she readily submitted to a lumpectomy w/ axillary dissection, chemotherapy, linear accelerator. A year later, Marisette co-founded the Bosom Buddies, a breast cancer support group. In October 1999, she was a speaker at the 2nd Philippine Conference on Breast Cancer. Devastated upon learning that the cancer had gone to her liver, Marisette decided it would be best for her to pursue further treatment at Stanford University Hospital in California. Mid-2001, Marisette declared, “Wait till I come back home and I will be a more outspoken activist!”