Cancer patients party with their superheroes

CEBU, Philippines — Sheila Marie, a seven-year-old cancer patient, received an early Christmas treat from information technology company Tech Mahindra Ltd. which recently organized its first thanksgiving party for young cancer patients.

The pupil from Talisay City School, who was one of the 30 child beneficiaries of the Cancer Warriors Foundation Inc. (CWFI) in Cebu, was grateful for the early presents she received.

She said the gifts she received, as well as the support from other benefactors, made them stronger in fighting against the disease.

She added that their health condition is becoming less of a burden because of the overwhelming support and help they get from various individuals and other organizations.

Recently, Tech Mahindra Ltd. brought smiles to the young cancer patients in a gathering in the company’s office at IT Park in Cebu City – which is one of the company’s corporate social responsibility initiatives.

The children were accompanied by their parents and guardians and were treated to a dinner of chicken, spaghetti, beef, and sweets.

For one night, they got to play with their favorite superheroes portrayed by cosplayers from the “One Hour to be HEROES” group.

The group has been holding a cosplayers charity movement in Cebu City since December 2015 that was spearheaded by Cheyenne Bianca Mae Adamson, who also mingled with the children.

Company officials also gave gifts to the children that they can use in school such as coloring books and pens. They also received medical and hygiene kits and other special gifts.

CWFI Cebu Chapter program manager Jennifer Ruby Baylon said he could not thank Tech Mahindra enough for the support they received.

She hopes that the recent activity would not be the last, as she also asked the employees not to get tired of helping those in need.

In response, Giovanni Yap, service delivery lead for a domestic account of Tech Mahindra, assured the foundation that the activity will definitely not be the last.

Tech Mahindra said it is committed to support and extend help to the community and engenders a sense of empathy and equity among its employees to motivate and to give back to the society. — BRP (FREEMAN)