Couple needs help to pay off hospital bill
The past few weeks have been challenging for delivery rider Jhay Aves, but even more so for his partner, Jessica Sagana, who was diagnosed on June 10 with calculous cholecystitis—an inflammation of the gallbladder caused by gallstones.
Before her diagnosis, Jessica frequently complained of sharp pain in the upper right side of her abdomen that radiated to her back. An ultrasound later revealed dozens of gallstones and severe inflammation, prompting their doctor at a hospital in General Trias City, Cavite, to recommend immediate surgery.
“I was terrified because the ultrasound showed so many gallstones that needed to be removed through surgery,” Jhay recalled. “Jessica was scared too, especially because we didn’t have the money for the operation.”
With limited options, the couple returned home and attempted to manage Jessica’s condition using natural remedies. But her condition worsened significantly a month later.
“Even though we didn’t have the money, I had to bring her back to the hospital as she just couldn’t bear the pain anymore,” Jhay said.
On July 26, Jessica underwent an endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography followed by a laparoscopic cholecystectomy to remove her gallbladder.
By the end of these procedures, her hospital bill—including professional fees—had mounted to P355,725.
With the help of their family and friends, the couple managed to raise enough money to pay off a third of the amount. But they still need to pay around P250,000. Jhay is the only breadwinner in the family, while Jessica is a stay-at-home mom to their two young kids.
Those who wish to extend financial assistance to the couple may send their donations to the EastWest Bank account of Stephanie Anne Bernardo, Jhay’s sister. Her account number is 200066379093. Jhay can be contacted at 0998-3554216.
