Their Eyes Are Looking at You

Dear Fellow Rotarians,

The situation at PGH hematology-oncology unit is critical

5,000 children in the Philippines are diagnosed with cancer annually

That there are only 51 pediatric oncologists in all the Philippines

That there are only 3 dedicated pediatric cancer wards in the nation

That there is a current shortage of Pediasure for chemo patients

That a 19-year-old patient has been without her needed medication for more than 2 weeks now

The COVID pandemic has prevented provincial travel for needed care

Their eyes are looking at you… …and they are telling you:

More sobering is the fact that the W.H.O. has noted that the pediatric survival rate for nations like the Philippines is a mere 20%—compared to 80% among developed nations globally—often due to lack of proper diagnosis and access to immediate care.

That is why Rotary Club of Manila has committed itself to help. But make no mistake—these needs are ongoing, immediate, and need our members at large to come to the aid of these special young people.

Therefore, we are creating a dedicated channel of donations beginning now and through the end of the year. These funds will first be used to immediately underwrite the shortfalls of needed supplies and medication. Additionally, we will address issues of supply chain in securing PPE for personnel and support for patient families.

Equally important is the leadership RCM has always shown. Therefore, we are also soliciting stakeholders and collaborators outside of RCM who share our willingness to join this effort. Your contribution in kind through your business or profession is certainly as valuable and as urgently needed. We welcome such offers and will gladly help coordinate the same through PGH.

We cannot do this solely by ourselves; but we will take the lead! I am asking you to start today by adding your name to mine below. Contributions as often as you wish to make them will be directed through the RCM Secretariat for disbursement as ongoing needs arise. Likewise, if you wish to join personally with this program, do not hesitate to contact me directly.

Their eyes are looking at you… Show them your commitment is greater than their fear. Show them your hearts are as great as their hopes.