Kaya Pa

04/03/2026

For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life." (John 3:16)

02/04/2026

It’s been a while since our last update. The past few months have been a whirlwind of appointments and some challenging news, but our family is staying strong.

​Medical Update

Tatay’s recent EBV DNA numbers came back higher than expected, which suggests the Capecitabine is likely no longer effective. We are currently in a waiting period while he finishes his fifth day of pelvic bone radiation tomorrow. The next step is a PET scan, which the oncologist at BC Cancer will use to determine a possible third-line treatment. In the meantime, our priority is keeping him comfortable and managing his pain.

​Tatay’s Spirit

Despite the shift in treatment, Tatay remains in great spirits and is incredibly hopeful. He often says, "Kaya ko pa. Lord is guiding me and my kids are supporting me." Seeing his resilience makes it easier for us to stay positive too.

​A Sincere Thank You

We are so grateful to the healthcare team at BC Cancer, including his oncologist and the pain management services, for the care they are providing.

​To our family and friends: thank you for the constant prayers and support. It means everything to Tatay and to all of us. We are taking things one step at a time, but as he says—Kaya pa.

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01/25/2026

Hi Family,

​They say a picture is worth a thousand words, but sometimes, it’s worth just one: Resilience.

​In a recent moment captured at home, we saw something beautiful. AJ, standing with the strength of youth, and Tatay Rene, sitting with the seasoned, unbreakable spirit of a warrior.

Seeing them side-by-side—both with fists clenched and ready—reminded us exactly why we do what we do here at Kaya Pa.

​Strength isn’t just about what you can lift; it’s about who you have standing beside you when things get tough. It’s about the "Believe, Endure, Overcome" philosophy in action.

​Whether you are a patient fighting the good fight or a caregiver providing the muscle and the heart, remember that you aren't doing this alone. We draw strength from each other, and together, we always find a way to say, "Kaya Pa."

​Keep creating your future,

The Kaya Pa Team

12/09/2025

A tough update, but we are still standing. After a painful emergency visit on Dec 4th, scans confirmed Tatay Rene’s cancer has spread to his liver, lungs, and bones. Tomorrow, we start a new treatment plan. We are scared, but we are ready. Here is the latest on his battle. 👇🙏

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​UPDATE: A Setback and a New Battle Plan
​I want to be transparent with our Kaya Pa family about where Tatay Rene is in his journey.

​The Reality Check (Dec 4)
Earlier this week, we had a scary moment. Tatay was in severe rib and chest pain that even our home medications couldn't touch. I had to rush him to the ER. The emergency scans confirmed what we feared: the cancer has progressed significantly to his liver, lungs, and bones.

​The New Fight (Starts Tomorrow)
We aren’t giving up. Tomorrow, Tatay takes his first dose of Capecitabine.

​This is an oral chemotherapy taken at home, but we know it’s heavy duty. As a nurse, I’m bracing for the side effects—specifically "Hand-Foot Syndrome" (painful peeling of palms and soles) and severe fatigue. As a son, I’m just praying this buys us more time and stops the spread.

​How You Can Help
We are walking into a difficult week. We ask for your continued prayers that Tatay’s body tolerates this new medication and that his pain becomes manageable.
​To everyone who has messaged and checked in: You are the fuel that keeps us going.
​The road is getting steeper, but we are still climbing.
​We Believe. We Endure. We Overcome.
Sabi nga ni Tatay, Kaya Pa!
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12/03/2025

On August 4, 2025, we took part in “Art Heals Day,” hosted by the Philippine Nurses Association of BC (PNABC)—a moving day of remembrance and fundraising for the victims in Lapu-Lapu events tragedy.

The truth is, he wasn’t feeling his best; the fatigue was obvious. But something shifts whenever Tatay Rene is surrounded by art and community.

Even tired, he seemed to tap into a hidden well of strength as soon as it was time to perform his tula (poem)please watch below 👇. He stood before the crowd not as a patient but as an artist—steady, confident, and fully alive. Watching him connect with other performers and immerse himself in the creative energy of the event was a gift.

This is what a Kaya Pa moment looks like: holding on through the difficult days so you can step into the beautiful ones. I’m deeply grateful he came with me and shared his voice.

Thank you to everyone at PNABC for the warm welcome and for giving Tatay this platform.

To our family and friends, we ask for your continued prayers for Tatay Rene’s healing and strength as he continues this battle. Your love keeps us going.@

11/28/2025

Thank you, Lord, for Tatay’s energy today. 🙏

​To be honest, the recent PET scan results weren’t as good as we were expecting. Today was supposed to be his last immunotherapy session, but there was a mix-up and it was cancelled. We learned that the first line of treatment didn’t work as we had hoped, so he is now moving on to a second line of cancer treatment.

​Despite the heavy news and the sudden change of plans, we chose to focus on the blessings and make the most of the day.

​We went to Canada Place with my sister, where Tatay got to watch FlyOver Canada. Afterward, we headed to Richmond for lunch at the mall and enjoyed some coffee at Blenz before driving back home.

​Seeing him up and about, enjoying these moments, reminds us of what matters most. His spirit is the definition of Kaya Pa. We never give up, and we never lose hope.

Kaya mo yan, Tay! Andito lang kami. 🙏

​Thank you family and friends for your continued prayers and support during these difficult times. ❤️
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11/03/2025

A Little Bit of Purpose Changes Everything!

​We make time for what matters. Today, Tatay Rene didn't just stay home—he made the effort to get out, enjoy the walk, and make a difference! He linked up with the fantastic Air Cadets of the 767 Dearman Squadron at the mall, who were raising funds for our veterans.
​He donated, posed for a quick picture, grabbed his poppy and wristband, and shared some laughs. Seeing his energy and commitment is a powerful reminder for all of us.
​A little bit of movement and a lot of purpose can change your whole day. Kaya Pa! (You can do it!)
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10/30/2025

We’re thrilled to congratulate Dr. Gerald Krystal for winning the 2025 Dr. Rogers Prize for Groundbreaking Cancer Research!

Dr. Krystal’s pioneering research into dietary interventions and cancer prevention has led to major progress in understanding how everyday lifestyle factors can influence cancer risk and outcomes. In 2023, together with the BC Cancer Foundation, Dr. Krystal established the Gerry & Jackie Krystal Endowment for Cancer Prevention Research, which provides awards to fund cancer prevention research at the L.J. Blackmore Cancer Research Centre.

He will be donating the entire $300,000 prize to the BC Cancer Foundation to support their endowment and fund future cancer prevention research.

We’re proud to share this donation will be matched by the Foundation’s BC Cancer Ignite Progress program, which matches gifts made by BC Cancer staff over $25,000 — totalling over $6 million since the program began in 2020.

Dr. Krystal’s acts of generosity and incredible dedication to cancer research and care are truly inspiring!

10/20/2025