Welcome Message

7th Annual Christmas Get-Together

1994

Reynaldo O. Joson, MD

Welcome to the 7th Annual Christmas Get-Together of the Cancer Crusaders Club. For those of you who are joining us for the first time, welcome to the Club.

It always gives me great pleasure and satisfaction to see and meet you all looking and feeling well. I am sure that for those of you who have come regularly to our reunions you feel just as glad to see the familiar faces and renew bonds of friendship.

Last year, we had 47 crusaders who were able to come. It was time again for sharing experiences during the year - some happy and some painful. The occasion also was reassuring to know you are not alone in your fight against cancer and that others have made the most of their lives. We heard the inspirational talk of Dr. Cathy Kring of UP-PGH and the Philippine Cancer Society, the inspiring testimonials of persons with cancer - Mrs. Chanita Par, Mrs. Lourdes Aboitiz, Mrs. Edna Sheker - and from Commissioner Sedfrey Ordonez, husband and care-giver to wife. We were also entertained by Janine and Nhel of the UST Conservatory of Music.

This annual gathering is indeed one that gives me and all of us hope that there's life even with a life-threatening illness like cancer. This is especially so when we're able to receive early and appropriate treatment, learn how to cope with it, receive solid social support from family and friends, and to learn how to add more life to the years by making each day meaningful and satisfying not only to yourself but to others - at home, at your work place, and in the community.

For those of you who are coming for the first time, our Newsletter contains a brief review of why and when I formed this Club. Let us all continue with even more strength and resolve to continue our fight against cancer together.

Thank you all for being here and I wish you an early Merry and Joyous Christmas.

Rey Joson