Jerome’s Wishes on Music, Boxing and Camiguin
By Melanie Montemayor
Make-A-Wish Foundation

He would love to groove to the music of The Black Eyed Peas, D12, The Back Street Boys and Simple Plan.? Given the chance, he would be immersed in a basketball game inspired by his favorite PBA Team, or in a boxing match much like his idol, Manny Pacquiao.? He would love to go to his native land, Camiguin, to enjoy the waves and scenery of the glorious beaches, and the warmth and company of his relatives.

But he can’t.

Jerome Carajay is very different from his 4 energetic siblings, and all other active teen boys.? This 14-year old has Aplastic anemia* and has to frequently undergo blood transfusion.? Such is why he was approached by the Make-A-Wish Foundation—so his simple wishes be granted, given the complications he has been experiencing.

A few days ago, we were told that Jerome was rushed to Fe del Mundo Hospital (formerly called Children’s Medical Hospital) at Banawe, Quezon City because his illness had gotten worse.? In less than two days, the Make-A-Wish Team had to grant the wish of the child.

During the Wish Grant Night, his supportive mother led the way to the common ward where he stayed.? Armed with colorful banners, gift baskets and simple surprises, we cheerfully visited the unsuspecting child.?

After handing over the food and gift baskets for his family, each of his Wish-Ate’s gave him music CDs of his favorite artists.? After which, his mother became more excited and teary-eyed when we granted Jerome his longed-for discman. ?“Ayan, hindi ka na maiinip! May libangan ka na,” she would say.? Jerome would thank us over and over again for the presents.

Then came the bigger surprise.? His idol, Manny Pacquiao, was on the phone ready to talk with him.? Jerome was star-struck, as we would coach him on what to ask.? Manny Pacquiao was generous in his support and prayers for the family, which gave the child and his mother much hope for recovery.

Jerome Carajay is celebrating his 15^th birthday on October 30.? We’re pretty sure he’s wishing to go to Camiguin—because he wants to experience the beaches and because he wants to be with his relatives.? Most importantly, he wants to go there because his mother promised to grant him that trip as soon as he was well.?

That Camiguin trip is still waiting for you, Jerome.

JEROME CARAJAY is in dire need of financial support for an immediate blood transfusion.? To reach him, you may contact his mother, REMEDIOS CARAJAY, at 09275750032.? They are currently staying at the Blue Ward, Fe del Mundo Hospital (formerly called Children’s Medical Hospital), Banawe, Quezon City.

* Aplastic Anemia is an illness that occurs when the bone marrow produces too few blood cells, causing his hemoglobin to drop, making one susceptible to infection, and causing trouble in blood clotting