29-year-old HS teacher diagnosed with kidney disease

Cris Victor Baay

MANILA, Philippines — Until he was diagnosed with chronic kidney disease in March 2018, Cris Victor Baay was the breadwinner in the family.

“I am trying to be strong for myself because I am practically the father and mother now of my three brothers and five sisters,” said the 29-year-old senior high school teacher.

Baay is the third child among nine siblings. Two are already married while the second child works as a farmer. The five youngest are still studying—three in college and two in high school.

Their mother died of cardiac arrest in 2010 while their father passed away in 2015 due to intestinal problems.

“Doctors said I probably weakened my kidneys by not taking my medication for high blood pressure,” Baay said.

He has a master’s degree in educational management and teaches English to Grade 12 students at Dagohoy National High School in Bohol province.

Baay supported himself through college, working as a janitor and as a crew member for a fast-food restaurant.

Every Wednesday and Saturday when he has no classes, he undergoes dialysis at Tagbilaran City Community Hospital. Each session costs P2,000.

Baay can be reached at 0909-4450040. Donations can be deposited in his BDO account (Cris Victor Baay, account number 007810215148).