A mother of two girls and a housewife, 29-year-old Cherilyn Caduyac often feels insecure and out of place at social gatherings due to her appearance. It began as a small mole on her lips when she was still in Grade 2, but it continued to grow over the years that would almost cover the opening of her mouth. When her parents brought her to seek medical advice in Cebu, she was recommended to have a surgery which came with a substantial cost that they could not afford, leading them to return to Bohol with no hope to be treated.
Picture taken before the surgery.
In May 2023, Cherilyn was discovered by a concerned group of people who referred her to Tzu Chi Bohol for medical assistance. The Tzu Chi volunteers immediately took her to see a doctor and she was diagnosed with hemangioma lip, a non-cancerous vascular birthmark characterized by extra blood vessels in the skin (Source: https://www.nationwidechildrens.org/conditions/hemangioma ,2009 ). Subsequently, the Tzu Chi Volunteers immediately arranged for her travel to Manila on June 26, 2023 and to coordinate for her surgery.
Tzu Chi Volunteers went to see Cherilyn to learn more about her condition.
Before her scheduled operation, Cherilyn had to undergo blood transfusion because of low hemoglobin level. Finally, on July 12, she had a cross lip flap procedure done by Tzu Chi International Medical Association (TIMA) surgeon, Dr. Frederick Leh at the Chinese General Hospital and Medical Center.
Cherilyn’s cross lip flap procedure was performed by veteran Tzu Chi International Medical Association (TIMA) surgeon, Dr. Frederick Leh
During her hospital stay in Manila, Cherilyn was assisted by Tzu Chi Commissioner and CGHMC staff, Sr. Chieh Fang Uy
“I am thankful to the Tzu Chi Foundation and to all who helped me to have my lip operation. This will boost my confidence to interact with other people. I am beyond grateful”, said Cherilyn.
Cherilyn after receiving her surgery.
Cherilyn’s daughters were overjoyed to see their mother looking prettier than before without the obstruction on her face anymore. She now looks forward to a brighter future. She is not only filled with gratitude but also determined to pay it forward and she vows to use her renewed confidence to contribute to her community and to Tzu Chi Bohol that helped her regain her smile.
Cherilyn’s daughters were happy to see their mother relieved from her suffering.
In the words of Dharma Master Cheng Yen, “Bringing forth our love to help those in suffering. In doing so, we can create a world where kindness and compassion are the guiding principles of someone’s life.”
Cherilyn relating her medical treatment journey with the Tzu Chi Youth and staff.
