On October 26, 2023, the Tzu Chi Bohol organized a mini-medical mission focused on AV Fistula patients at Ramiro Community Hospital and was conducted with Doctor Monico Perez, a Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgeon (TCVS) professional from Cebu Perpetual Succour Hospital. The mission aimed to provide crucial medical assistance to individuals suffering from AV Fistula-, a condition involving an abnormal connection between an artery and a vein, that often requires specialized medical attention. He operated on four patients who had been suffering from Kidney Failure that day.
The doctor while conducting a consultation to determine whether the patient is suitable for surgery.
“My condition started last year in December and I began undergoing dialysis three times a week. When the time came for an AV fistula, I attempted it at a certain hospital here in Tagbilaran, but it was unsuccessful. I am truly thankful to the Tzu Chi Foundation, especially because I discovered them through the support of my companions. Thanks to Tzu Chi and God for helping me through this journey. Special thanks to Dr. Perez for enduring the challenging process, especially with my veins being closely attached. Thank you, Dr. Perez,” Julie Iris Bahan said.
During the surgery.
Doctor Perez came back to Bohol this December 15, 2023, to operate on another two patients who badly needed the said procedure.
Herbert Pernia, a 47-year-old resident of Booy, Tagbilaran City, is currently grappling with Stage 5 cancer, diabetes, and high blood pressure. His health challenges surfaced earlier this year, stemming from blurred vision that emerged in 2021. After a medical consultation, he was diagnosed with diabetes, necessitating a monthly maintenance routine. In June, Herbert faced a critical health episode, leading to his admission to a certain hospital in Bohol due to respiratory difficulties. Despite being discharged, his condition deteriorated the following day, prompting a return to the hospital. After a series of hospital stays, he encountered discomfort at home, indicating elevated creatinine levels. Concerned about potential infections, his doctor recommended an AV fistula.
“I extend my gratitude to Tzu Chi and to those who helped in making the procedure successful. I have longed for this opportunity, and I am truly thankful,” the patient said after the AV Fistula Procedure.
Encountering financial constraints when inquiring about the procedure’s cost, Herbert’s wife sought assistance from Tzu Chi. This decision proved instrumental, as Tzu Chi not only provided financial support but also facilitated the AV fistula placement, sparing Herbert from significant financial burdens.
“I felt overjoyed when they called on Wednesday, and tears unexpectedly flowed during our conversation with the staff. Despite a miscommunication where Tzu Chi initially believed the procedure was completed, they quickly addressed the issue, assuring me during the Wednesday call that the AV fistula placement would be scheduled for either Thursday or Friday,” Herbert stated with emotion in his eyes.
A Tzu Chi Volunteer provided the patient with an explanation of the history of Tzu Chi and its four missions.
Expressing gratitude for this support, Herbert acknowledges the role of Tzu Chi in navigating his medical journey. Despite the challenges, including his resignation from work at Alturas due to deteriorating vision, Herbert is grateful for the assistance from Tzu Chi, enabling his wife to substitute his job at the mall.
Dr. Monico Perez received assistance from the nursing team at Ramiro Community Hospital throughout the surgery.
“To Dr. Perez, though I may not personally know you, I am sincerely grateful for the success of the operation. They mentioned that the veins needed for the AV fistula procedure should ideally be large and well-located, and it took time for the doctor to search for the right vein. Therefore, I extend my gratitude to Tzu Chi and to those who helped in making the procedure successful. I have longed for this opportunity, and I am truly thankful,” the patient stated.
Dr. Perez performed surgeries on a total of six patients for two days during the mini-medical mission, with the aspiration to extend assistance to more individuals experiencing suffering in the future.
A Tzu Chi Volunteer, the Doctor, and the patients during the operation last October 26, 2023.
In closing, as stated in the Jing-Si Aphorism by Dharma Master Cheng Yen, “When doctors aspire to heal and alleviate suffering in the world, their hands become instruments of compassion, and their hearts, vessels of love.”
