Rotary San Juan Gems gives love this Christmas
MANILA, Philippines - True to their calling of “Service above Self,” the Rotary Club of San Juan Gems spreads joy and cheer to people who need it most.
Last December 7, the Gems visited the charity ward of the Philippine Children’s Medical Center in Quezon City to play Santa for over 200 sick children with serious and life-threatening ailments, including cancer, meningitis, pneumonia, and blood and cardio-related diseases. The children, mostly coming from poor families, were given a party with lots of food, with each child receiving a gift bag filled with stuffed toys, fruits, diapers, and toiletries.
“We were happy and sad at the same time,” said Dolores Cheng, the Majestic of Rotary San Juan Gems. “Sad because it was heartbreaking to see young children and even infants suffer so much because of their illnesses, but we were glad that we could bring joy and smiles to them and their families, especially during the Christmas season, when kids should be happy. We pray these children and their parents continue to be strong. We will definitely do more of these activities in the future.”
“To see the pain that these brave children are going through makes our daily difficulties seem trivial,” shares Tina Callejo, a member of the San Juan Gems. “It was a reminder that we should always be thankful for our blessings, and that we should do everything we can to make our lives, and the lives of others, better.”
For individuals wishing to donate or join the San Juan Gems’ charitable activities, call 632-7255132 (look for Tina).
