Help sought for little Luke

Luke Andrew Cardoza

MANILA, Philippines–Born in March last year, Luke Andrew Cardoza was diagnosed with congenital heart disease when he was only three months old. Doctors then found “two holes, one much bigger than the other, on the left ventricle of his heart,” according to his aunt Claire Salaño.

Specialists at the Philippine General Hospital have recommended an immediate open-heart surgery, which will cost the family about P230,000. In behalf of Luke’s parents—Antonio Cardoza, a convenience store worker, and Cherrylyn, who is currently jobless—Salaño is appealing to Inquirer readers for assistance in raising the amount.

“Luke is like my own baby,” said Salaño, Cherrylyn’s sister, who is sharing her home with the baby’s family in Barangay (village) Palanan, Makati City. Little Luke could already walk, she said, but the baby had grown thin because of his condition.

Doctors have also advised against taking him outdoors often since he’s sensitive to vehicle fumes and strong odors, she added.

Interested donors may contact Claire and Cherrylyn Salaño at 09179199599 and 09473641120. Deposits can be made to the account of Claire’s son Noah Salaño at BDO (#7330037203).–Santiago R. Alcantara