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Story of Faith: First Patient of the MJH Pediatric Oncology Ward

The parents of 1 year old Mcfrancis Pierre Flores comfort him, preparing for his chemotherapy session at the newly opened Mary Johnston Hospital – Adonai Mercy House (MJH-AMH) Pediatric Oncology Ward. (Photo by Anjanneth Manalo) Story of Faith: First Patient of the MJH Pediatric Oncology Ward With the support of Adonai’s Mercy House Foundation and Pediatric Oncologist Dr. Lalie Pablo, Mcfrancis Pierre Flores 1 year old male, was admitted to the Pediatric Oncology Ward of Mary Johnston Hospital last January 27, 2025.  His mother shared that Mcfrancis had a rash on his body and liquid gushing out from his ears last year. They decided to consult with an Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT) doctor and dermatologist. The rash had blood clots, and they were advised to have the rash biopsied. The results confirmed Langerhans Cell Histiocytosis (LCH), a rare illness of a cell build-up in a human body which damages tissue and forms tumors. Both of his parents were devastated thinking that it was only a simple skin allergy. Thankful to the hospital, its dedicated and kind health workers, and to   Adonai’s Mercy House Foundation for providing a comfortable healing space for their son’s treatment, their family continues to ask for prayer and support as they prevail in this challenge. “We are positive that we can surpass this challenge through faith”, his father shared. They have started the necessary treatment and medications under the expertise of Dr. Lalie Pablo. Today, he will undergo his fifth session of chemotherapy. His parents hope for positive progress and development in the coming days. 

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MJ BIBLE WEEK 2025

Presidential Proclamation #124 declares the month of January as National Bible Month. The National Bible month celebrations were led by Rev. Sarah Garduque. Emphasis was given to have our communities acknowledge the significance of the Bible in their lives and our nation. In observing this special month at Mary Johnston Hospital, we highlight the Bible’s enduring impact on our culture, values, and faith. We honor its teachings, stories, and messages of love, hope, and redemption. Words of encouragement and welcome from one of our respected Board of Trustees, Atty. Robinson Landicho, and an Inspirational Bible Talk message from our beloved Executive Director, Dr. Glenn Paraso, reflected on Romans 15:4 “For whatever was written for our instruction, that through endurance and encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope.” Further, “The scriptures serve as a guide, offering wisdom and principles to live by…celebrating Bible Week is a way to honor this timeless source of guidance, endurance, and hope….” The I-Proclaim readers (Supervisors) lead in reading and proclaiming the Word of God through the reading of handpicked verses. May the Gospel of Salvation be brought into our hearts, to our workplace, to our communities, and in our homes! All glory to God!

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How a Small Department Makes a Huge Impact

The office of the Medical Social Work Department (MSWD) is small compared to other offices of the Mary Johnston Hospital (MJH); but this modest working area that accommodates four staff members passes through a full spectrum of human emotions — joy, frustration, hope, and even sorrow.  The MSWD serves as the heart of the Manila-based mission hospital that reaches out to the community’s most vulnerable. Indeed, its impact goes beyond the walls of MJH. What exactly is the Medical Social Work Department (MSWD), and what sets it apart from other departments? Unlike other departments that focus on inpatient and outpatient care, the MSWD goes beyond the hospital walls to engage with the surrounding community. It believes in reducing hospital admissions due to preventable illnesses. To achieve this goal, it is essential to visit and assess communities, addressing health issues at their source. So far, the MSWD has been able to establish partnerships with three barangays in Tondo, Manila: Barangay 47, Barangay 69, and Barangay 123. Through these partnerships, the hospital conducts free medical missions and health lectures to raise awareness, and, when blessed with the support of benefactors, MSWD holds a year-end thanksgiving. The Medical Social Work Department is one of the busiest areas in the hospital, with a constant flow of individuals seeking assistance. Many of these patients face overwhelming problems, and our medical social workers are there to listen and provide emotional support. By building rapport and conducting thorough interviews, the social workers gather crucial information that aids in the helping process. So, what is this helping process? MSWD provides frontline services to address the social and psychological hardships that often accompany serious health conditions. Financial concerns are one of the primary challenges faced by patients, and our social workers make referrals to various social welfare institutions to help alleviate hospital expenses. In addition to casework and community outreach, the MSWD plays a crucial role in addressing unintended pregnancies and abortion issues. The department is actively involved in the hospital’s family planning program, specifically promoting the No-Scalpel Vasectomy (NSV) procedure, a permanent surgical birth control method for men. This quick, 20-to-30-minute procedure is performed once or twice a month, with 10-15 clients undergoing the operation each session. One of the program’s main goals is to increase male involvement in reproductive health and family planning through advocacy and NSV services. Despite its small size, the Medical Social Work Department shoulders an immense and often exhausting workload. Yet, these challenges do not diminish its commitment to fulfilling its responsibilities. The MSWD remains steadfast in upholding the vision and mission of MJH. Thedepartment’s workers, driven by their professional oath, continue to place service to humanity as their top priority.

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Forging a Partnership for Healing: MJH and WMRI Unite

Dr. Glenn Roy V. Paraso, Executive Director of Mary Johnston Hospital (MJH), met with Mr. George Samson, President of World Medical Relief, Inc. (WMRI), to discuss a potential partnership aimed at conducting healing missions in the Philippines. WMRI, a Detroit-based non-profit organization, specializes in providing medical equipment, devices, and supplies from U.S. hospitals to underserved healthcare institutions worldwide. This collaboration was initiated through WMRI’s Asia representative, Dr. Irineo Alvaro, who also serves as President of Wesleyan University Philippines (WUP). The meeting took place during WMRI’s 71st Gala Night on November 9 in Michigan, United States, where MJH was invited as an observer. The event paved the way for discussions about equipping MJH to further its mission of providing compassionate care to the community. WMRI, founded in 1953 by Methodist laywoman Irene Auberlin in response to the Korean War’s humanitarian crisis, continues its legacy of supporting hospitals globally. Inspired by MJH’s dedication to serving the poor, Mr. Samson has invited MJH to become a beneficiary of WMRI’s resources. Dr. Paraso expressed his gratitude and excitement about this opportunity, stating, “We are now preparing a priority checklist of medical equipment, devices, and supplies that our hospital urgently needs. We praise God for opening new frontiers for His mission.“ Mr. Samson is scheduled to visit MJH early next year to further strengthen this promising partnership.

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GBGM Missionary Visits MJH

Dr. David Scott, Director of Mission and Theology and Strategic Planning visited the Mary Johnston Hospital on a recent engagement with the UMC Headquarters. It was an eye opener for Dr. Scott, on this his first visit, to see the different ministries and history of the facility as marked and lived through its 118 years. Partnering with the Global Ministries Board has played a significant role in the health systems strengthening portion of the infrastructure and capacities of the facility. He was delighted to hear of the eight varied health innovations and legacies of the hospital covering – 1) Project 111 (One room, one church, one hospital) a participatory healing space initiative where partners become part of a weekly patient-centered healing prayer item request hour and room renovation legacy ; 2) MJ Green – Renewable energies for health equity, where 1072 installed solar panels are saving 22-25% of fossil fuel generated electricity, a portion of the savings then subsidizes diagnostics and treatment for HIV AIDs, and Tuberculosis indigent patients 3) Wesleyan Medical Health Systems as expansion sites of contiguous episcopal areas setting up Diagnostic health centers branded as ‘Inner Health’ and partnering with Methodist institutions for health worker exchange 4) Mary Johnston Learning Institute (MJLI) housing the Rebecca Parrish Scholarship for advanced higher learning and events 5) Red Flame Initiative (RFI) where partner blood donors from churches form a ministry for saving lives, produced by our own blood center, given free to needing members  6) Legacy Wall, an endowment fund partnership building for future-proofing the hospital resources 7) Child1st, a community-based partnership with accredited midwives for birthing services 8) Wheels of Wellness (WOW), a mobile health and wellness van promoting primary health care and increasing access to health. Dr. Scott ended with a heartful encouragement to MJH that as we do mission from everywhere to everywhere, God becomes a palpable presence to those that need Him.

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MJH Celebrates World Pharmacists Day with Health Awareness Lectures

MJH Celebrates World Pharmacists Day with Health Awareness Lectures By Jeris Diego Ledesma MANILA (September 25, 2024) — The Mary Johnston Hospital (MJH) has joined the global celebration of World Pharmacists Day themed “Pharmacists: Meeting Global Health Needs.” The event featured a series of health awareness lectures conducted by the hospital’s pharmacy team led by Jaymee Quilang, Kiel James Baliao, Rain-Jasmine Ricardo, Abby Yuson, and Gelene Mendones.

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MJH Becomes First Mission Hospital to Open a Cancer Ward for Children

MANILA, Philippines — There was a sense of anticipation in the air at the pediatric section on the second floor of Mary Johnston Hospital on the late morning of August 26, 2024. Outside the ward, once known as the “Masonic Ward” for children with orthopedic disabilities, the hallway was adorned with vibrant flowers and colorful ribbons, hinting at something extraordinary about to unfold. Well-dressed guests, including a few distinguished foreigners, mingled with the hospital’s Board of Trustees and executives, led by MJH Executive Director Dr. Glenn Roy V. Paraso and its Chairperson Reiner Puno. They were joined by members of the medical staff, all poised for the commencement of a special worship service. The newly renovated Pediatric Oncology Ward at Mary Johnston Hospital stood ready for its consecration—a beacon of hope and healing. Guests, greeted by hospital leaders and staff, gathered with a shared purpose: to bless a sanctuary that would soon serve as a refuge for children fighting cancer. The Pediatric Oncology Ward is a joint effort between Mary Johnston Hospital (MJH) and Adonai’s Mercy House Inc. (AMHI). Dr. Glenn Roy Paraso of MJH and Nancy C. Nicolas, Executive Director of AMHI, led the ribbon-cutting and unveiled the ward’s name, “Adonai’s Mercy House Inc. Pediatric Oncology Ward.” The ceremony began with the entrance of biblical symbols—the cross, the Bible, flowers, a framed dedication, water, and candles—setting a solemn tone. Dr. Evangelina Duran, MJH’s Medical Director, described the newly renovated ward as a “symbol of God’s loving care and blessing for the hospital and its ministry.” “This is a day of rejoicing!” Dr. Paraso declared, his voice filled with emotion. The Rev. Sarah Garduque, MJH’s Spiritual Health Officer, offered a reflection on 2 Chronicles 7:14-16, which speaks of rebuilding the temple. She reminded those present that the presence of the Lord fills this place, where healing and mercy overflow, urging all to stay humble, seek God’s guidance, and rely on Him. The ceremonial consecration followed, with the lighting of candles and the sprinkling of water—symbols of cleansing, purity, and the divine mission of the ward to be a place of comfort and strength for young warriors battling cancer. Following the worship service, Shane Wallenda, one of the founders of Adonai’s Mercy House, announced plans for a garden outside the ward. This garden would be dedicated in honor of Renuka “Debbie” Dayal’s mother. Debbie was present during the consecration of the ward. A heartfelt message from Dr. David Ahearn, one of the ward’s most devoted supporters, was delivered virtually. Though unable to attend in person, Dr. Ahearn expressed his unwavering commitment to the cause, vowing to continue supporting Filipino children with cancer and venturing into “the deep waters of faith” to assist in any way possible. The need for such a ward is pressing; cancer remains one of the leading causes of illness and death among children. The weight of the diagnosis is heaviest on the innocent, prompting Shane and Aimee Wallenda to establish Adonai’s Mercy House 11 years ago. Driven by a profound compassion for children battling cancer, the Wallendas have committed to offering hope and healing. Mr. Wallenda shared that the decision to start the foundation was made in just one day because, as he put it, “my heartbeat beats for the little ones.” After years of waiting and praying for a facility, a seemingly done deal of a plan failed to materialize. But the Wallendas, undeterred, saw a bigger blessing in the eventual partnership with Mary Johnston Hospital, leading to the creation of the Pediatric Oncology Ward. Not only is it the first in the history of the hospital, but it also stands as the first dedicated ward for pediatric cancer patients in a private hospital in the Philippines. With four beds, the ward offers round-the-clock care, supported by a pediatric oncologist and specially trained nurses. Dr. Paraso emphasized the ward’s role in reaching out to poor Filipino families unable to afford cancer treatments for their children. “With the opening of this unit, Mary Johnston Hospital and Adonai Mercy House aim to bring a brighter future for our pediatric oncology patients, as God uses both institutions to provide healing together,” he said. Earlier that day, another significant milestone took place—the inaugural meeting of the newly registered Adonai’s Mercy House Inc. (AMHI) in the Philippines. Presided over by Mr. Shane Wallenda, the meeting at Valencia Hall of MJH was attended by incorporators Dr. Paraso, Micah Icasiano, Valeree Nolasco, and Joy Funtanilla. Aimee Wallenda was added as a new board member, expanding the trustees to five. The board elected Aimee as chairperson, Dr. Paraso as secretary, and Joy as treasurer, although the latter had to leave early for Guam, where she resides. Nancy Nicolas, AMHI’s Executive Director, presented her report, highlighting the challenges and progress since she took the helm. Shane Wallenda described these updates as “an unfolding of an 11-year vision,” and reminded everyone, “Our goal is to show mercy,” expressing his humility and gratitude for the work being done. Among the guests were Angelica “Gigi” Mendoza, and the ward’s designer, Ronnie Sta. Ana, who oversaw the renovation, and friends and supporters who have contributed to this mission. Together, they celebrated the opening of a space that promises to be a sanctuary of healing, comfort, and hope for the youngest and bravest in their fight against cancer.

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MJH, GNW Mark Historic Union With Online Consecration Service

In an unprecedented union that promises to reshape the future of health and spiritual care at the only Methodist mission hospital in the Philippines, Mary Johnston Hospital (MJH) and the Greater Northwest (GNW) Episcopal Area of the United Methodist Church (UMC) consecrated a groundbreaking partnership on May 24 (May 23 in Seattle, WA). This historic alliance, held online via Zoom, signals the dawn of a transformative journey, uniting the two institutions in their shared mission to heal bodies and souls. Bishop Ruby-Nell Estrella, resident bishop of the Manila Episcopal Area (MEA), delivered the Exhortation of the Word. (See separate report) The consecration service was attended by representatives from both MJH and GNW. Leading the Manila delegation were Dr. Glenn Roy V. Paraso, executive director and chief executive officer of MJH, Bishop Ruby-Nell Estrella, resident bishop of the Manila Episcopal Area (MEA), and lawyer Robinson A. Landicho, vice chairperson of the MJH Board of Trustees. The GNW delegation was led by Bishop Cedrick D. Bridgeforth, the resident bishop of the GNW with PNW Director of Connectional Ministries Rev. David Valera, District Superintendent Rev. Derek Nakano, District Superintendent Rev. Daniel Miranda and Director of Connectional Ministries for Oregon-Idaho, Ms. Laurie Day. The theme of the consecration service, “Healing Together and BEing Well,” beautifully merges two powerful messages: Mary Johnston Hospital’s long-standing tagline, “Healing Together,” and the Greater Northwest Episcopal Area’s annual conference theme, “BEing Well.” In his greeting, Dr. Paraso asked God “to help us work together in harmony towards common good.” During the Declaration of Purpose, Attorney Landicho urged the participants to “bring praise for God’s aid in this undertaking, giving thanks to God for the covenant agreement which unites us in fulfilling the purpose of healing together and being well.” Likewise, Bishop Bridgeforth asked the Almighty to “grant to this called covenant agreement the grace of Your presence, that You may be known by those who will commit their service here to provide and to receive Your works of healing.” The consecration service included the symbolic passing of the Shawl or “Alampay.” In the liturgy prepared by the MJH chaplain, the Rev. Sarah Garduque, it was noted that the shawl “carries with it our prayers, offering recipients the warmth of God’s protection, the radiant joy of His love, and the serene solace of His protection.” Dr. Paraso is set to bring the shawl to Seattle, WA in June 2024 to present it to Bishop Bridgeforth in person. Dr. Paraso explained that the unification underscores the shared commitment of both institutions to holistic health and well-being.

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When Filipinos offer someone an “alampay”

The “alampay” or shawl holds a deep significance in Filipino culture. It symbolizes many long-held values and traditions of our people. Among its important meanings are: Warmth and Welcome. Presenting a shawl is a gesture of hospitality and warmth. It signifies Filipino hospitality and the desire to make guests feel at home. Respect and Honor. A shawl symbolizes respect. It is given to someone held in high esteem. Cultural Sharing. The act of offering an “alampay” symbolizes the sharing of Filipino culture and heritage. It represents a bridge between cultures, fostering understanding and connection. Protection and Care. The alampay symbolizes protection, much like the way it provides physical warmth. Giving a shawl conveys care and a wish for the recipient’s well-being. Symbol of Identity: Shawls can be intricately designed, showcasing traditional Filipino weaving techniques and patterns. Presenting a shawl highlights the rich textile heritage and artistry of the Philippines. Ceremonial Significance. In many Filipino ceremonies and rites, shawls are used to signify important milestones or transitions. Giving a shawl can imply the recognition of a significant event or achievement in the recipient’s life. Connection and Friendship. The alampay represents the formation of a bond or friendship. It’s a tangible expression of goodwill and the desire to maintain a lasting relationship. Blessing. In the Filipino tradition, the shawls are used in rituals to bless and protect individuals. Presenting a shawl can be seen as offering a blessing to the recipient. The shawl or alampay carries with it our prayers, offering those who receive it the warmth of God’s comfort, the radiant joy of His love, and the serene solace of His protection. It provides support during times of illness or pain and joy during life’s celebrations. Whether comforting someone through grief, pain, illness, or celebrating milestones in partnership covenants, this alampay will make a difference to countless lives. From our local community members to individuals in distant places, our woven prayers will form a tapestry that will mark our healing together and being well.

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Guess who was surprised when DOH paid a ‘surprise visit’ to MJH

“Mary Johnston Hospital (MJH) has really leveled up since our last visit!” This was the remark of Engr. Maria Axxess Retirva, one of the accreditors of the Philippine national government’s Department of Health (DOH). “It’s a pleasant surprise for me to know that MJH is the only hospital that is serious in its effort to its wards by providing a restroom for each patient and their guardians,” Engr. Retirva added. “Who knows what we will find our in our next visit!” This was after the DOH’s Health Facilities and Services Regulatory Bureau (HFSRB) paid a two-day visit to thoroughly inspect the United Methodist Church-affiliated mission hospital. Dr. Ma. Abigail G. Principe, Medical Specialist II, led the DOH team comprised of: Mr. Joven Arlu Pondevida, RN, Licensing Officer III; Engr. Retirva, Engineer II; and Mr. Seigfred Petines, RMT, Licensing Officer II. The two-day visit started on April 4, 2025. On the first day, the DOH-HFSRB conducted a meticulous review of various documents that included policies, procedures, and committee meeting minutes mandated for a Level 3 hospital. These included areas such as Credentialing and Privileging, Blood Transfusion, Healthcare Waste Management, Patient Safety, Infection Prevention and Control, Antimicrobial Stewardship, Pharmacologic and Therapeutic practices, Emergency and Disaster Preparedness, Continuous Quality Improvement, Grievance procedures, and Information and Communication Technology protocols. Additionally, they scrutinized patient charts across different departments, evaluated the electronic medical records system, assessed patient satisfaction levels, examined incident/sentinel event reporting, analyzed statistical reports, reviewed operational plans and training protocols, assessed disease surveillance measures, ensured compliance with occupational safety and health programs, and verified the certificate of compliance. In the afternoon, the team embarked on a comprehensive hospital tour, visiting key areas such as the Operating and Delivery Room, Emergency room, and Dispensary Unit. It also checked MJH’s compliance with land ambulance requirements. It also assessed laboratory and diagnostic services, including radiology and the heart station, as well as other ancillary medical services such as Dietary and Pulmonary care. Also, they evaluated nursing services, including critical care, nursing wards, hemodialysis, central supply, and sterilization facilities. The team members also inspected the newly renovated private and ward rooms. On the second day, the DOH-HFSRB continued its thorough examination of documents, covering a range of healthcare laws and regulations. This included scrutiny of existing programs and services supporting Newborn and Hearing Screening, Mother-Baby Friendly initiatives, family planning, immunization, tuberculosis, and HIV care. Additionally, they reviewed policies and procedures related to generic prescribing, health emergency and disaster preparedness, data privacy, allocation of charity beds, compliance with anti-deposit laws, registration of birth and death certificates, adherence to the Data Privacy Act, and enforcement of the Anti-Smoking Act. They also conducted on-site inspections to verify the practical implementation of these laws across various areas of the hospital. In the afternoon, the DOH-HFSRB shared their final feedback. It commended the “surprising” achievements of MJH as well as identified the challenges the hospital must address “within the next 30 days.” The DOH team pointed out the crucial areas of concern that need attention, including the non-availability of the Permit to Construct (PTC) for renovated rooms and facilities, aging hemodialysis machines, the need for a plan to establish a Sewage Treatment Plant, recommendations to improve the morgue and upgrade the Blood Station to a Blood Bank. All in all, the DOH visit was assessed by the MJH leadership and staff as an opportunity for the hospital to advance its journey toward improvement, and reaffirm its commitment to enhancing care and service initiatives for valued patients. They look at the visit as a crucial factor in MJH’s pursuit of International Organization for Standardization (ISO) accreditation, as the hospital endeavors to turn these challenges into avenues for healing, growth, and excellence.

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