Boy diagnosed with leukemia fighting another disease

Rainier Tolentino

Ten-year-old Rainier Tolentino, who was diagnosed with leukemia four years ago, was looking forward to completing his 12-session chemotherapy treatment when doctors found cryptococcal meningitis-causing bacteria in his brain.

About to undergo his 11th chemotherapy session on Feb. 8, Rainier was recently confined for two months at Philippine Children’s Medical Center (PCMC) as a result, said his mother, Mylene Villegas.

“A specimen of his brain cells needs to be submitted for laboratory tests to St. Luke’s Medical Center to determine if the bacteria are dwindling or multiplying. There is no equipment at PCMC that can do this,” she added.

“I want to have peace of mind that’s why on Feb. 8, this procedure will be done simultaneously with his 11th chemotherapy session,” Mylene said.

She asked for help since her husband, Renato, a noodle vendor, barely earns enough for their family’s needs. The two remaining chemotherapy sessions cost P22,000 each while the brain cells sample tests costs P3,700.

Mylene Villegas can be reached at 0946-4359282. Donations can be deposited in her BPI account number (6386-2001-63).