MANILA, Philippines - Every event inside this institution called ChildHaus is always filled with a lot of goodwill, well wishes and fervent prayers for blessings and support. Its founder and main benefactor, Mother Ricky Reyes sees to it that the message of hope is felt all around.
Such was the atmosphere when Childhaus, home to close to 50 cancer-stricken children and their families (as they seek treatment in the city from their illnesses), celebrated its 9th anniversary recently. This historic day was made even more meaningful because Childhaus is just settling in its new location in Barangay Pinahan in Quezon City – a gift of love from the family of Mr. Hans Sy.
QC City First Lady Tates Gana, who was also celebrating her birthday, was hand in hand with Mother Ricky in this endeavor. Guest of honor was Hans Sy, who came with his two sons after skipping a family get-together on a Sunday afternoon. He personally toured his boys around Childhaus imparting lessons on life while he did. When asked why he chose to donate this property to Childhaus, Mr. Sy simply said, “it makes me happy to do this. I want to see these children happy despite their sickness. I know that being happy could make them heal faster. When I saw them being evacuated from their PCSO quarters last year, I know they needed help. That’s why I am here. They can rely on me for help,” he said.
Also there were ABS-CBN’s Henry Omaga Diaz and Karylle, GMA-7’s Rhian Ramos, Geoff Taylor, Protégé’s Lovely Emboscado, former Marikina Mayor Marides Fernando, Cong. Linabelle Villafuerte, Evangeline Pascual, and PBB Teen’s Ryan Boyce.
For its ninth anniversary, Mother Ricky said there were originally nine private individuals who generously pledged their support, specifically to shoulder the expenses of some of the kids’ treatments. Those who heeded the call were Haidee Perico, Liezl Uytiepo, Rotary Club of Salcedo Makati, Floral Gardens, Vangie Kua, Jackie Maniquis, Villar Foundation, Batangueno Human Resources Foundation, and Atoy Llave. Other donors were Jerome Tang, Beth Feliciano, and Cecilia Garucho. There were also pledges given by Amie Arguelles, Bong Avendano, Arny Pador and Dr. Art Dulce.