Woman appeals for help for sick son

Kenneth America

MANILA, Philippines–Seven-year-old Kenneth America had his pancreas removed in April 2013 after it swelled and weighed as much as three kilos due to his condition.

Kenneth suffers from beta thalassemia, a blood disorder which results in decreased production of hemoglobin, the iron-containing protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen to cells. Over time, patients may develop liver, heart and hormone problems.

“It might be his liver this time, the doctors told me but they won’t be sure until he has an ultrasound test,” his mother, Bernadeth America, said. She added that Kenneth was set to be checked Monday by doctors at the Philippine Children’s Medical Center.

Bernadeth, who lives with her family on Juan Luna Street in Barangay (village) Pinagbuhatan, Pasig City, is appealing for help as she has lost two of her children to the same ailment.

“To be honest, my husband has given up on Kenneth but I have not. Kenneth himself is already afraid. I am doing everything to save him because I want him to live,” Bernadeth said.

Aside from taking maintenance medicines worth P77,512 a year, Kenneth also needs a blood transfusion every three weeks which costs the family P6,000. The family depends on her husband’s earnings as a carpenter for their basic needs.

Those who want to help Kenneth can call Bernadeth at 0939-5168181. They can also deposit their donations in her BPI account (Kapitolyo, Pasig City branch) with account # 3199-1259-81.