Our pre-Christmas party for 100 children undergoing cancer treatment at the House of Hope in Davao, Philippines was a magical success. AAI is preparing a post-Christmas party, or 3 Kings party for 60 children now arriving for treatment. The facility helps 3,000 to 5000 children per year who have various forms of cancer. Many are in later stages due to the severe poverty of their families. They come from Christian, Muslim and mountain tribes. Happiness, giving and sharing are the best medicine.
Cancer, in many forms, has increased among children in Asia. In the Philippines, the quality of air and water is affected by industrial or agricultural chemicals, widespread poverty, and inadequate public health facilities. In the Mindanao region, where Christians, Muslims, and mountain tribal people live in extremely challenging conditions, the only cancer treatment facility providing low-cost medicines to the poor is the House of Hope in the City of Davao. AAI helps by bringing joy and love.
Cancer treatment is most successful when medicine, nutrition, and a joyful attitude of hope are fully integrated. At House of Hope, cancer treatment is provided by Davao city government. But the expense of providing transportation, food and lodging for 3,000 to 5,000 children and their families is overwhelming. Private volunteers and organizations such as Asia America Initiative assist. Christmas parties with toys to exchange help to energize the children and create a joyful spirit of healing.
This program is an international model of donor kindness and corporate social responsibility. For children living in dire poverty, the influence of violent crime and militant extremism is a constant reality. By surviving cancer and experiencing hope, the multi-ethnic children inspire their neighbors. This holistic program empowers entire communities to overcome the trials of life and move forward with hopeful enthusiasm for a better future. Every child matters.
