Ronaldo Z. Concha Saudi Gazette JEDDAH — An Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW) in Jeddah has appealed for financial assistance so she can take her sick 13-year-old son to hospital for urgent medical treatment. The mother, who requested anonymity, said her son Ben is suspected of suffering from tuberculosis, a potentially lethal contagious bacterial infection that affects the lungs but can spread to other organs. “Ben's illness started a year ago when a lump appeared on his back. It has now developed into a wound. My son's condition is worsening but I am unable to afford hospital expenses. Treatment and medication for this kind of illness is expensive and our income is barely enough to cover daily expenses,” she said while adding that the education of her two children has been put on hold so better care can be given to Ben. “We have nothing, we are penniless and we are begging to our kindhearted Filipinos to help us out during this difficult time,” she added. Red Bual, former president of the Boholano community group, is one of the OFWs actively helping the child along with the Kaagapay ng Bawat OFW advocacy group. Bual has sought the assistance of the Philippine Consulate and the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) for Ben's treatment. Bual said Ben needs immediate medical attention. He said teamwork among OFWs is needed to ensure the child receives the proper medical care. Philippine Consulate Consul General Uriel Norman Garibay said the consulate will appeal to hospitals to admit the boy at a discounted rate. Garibay said the consulate will also ask the DFA for financial assistance and check whether the OWWA can help the boy in any way possible. “We don't have money to pay for my medical treatment. I do not even go to school, we are hoping for your kindness, please help me, I want to be cured and hope to go to school again,” Ben said in a written appeal. Baul said those wishing to extend their assistance to Ben can give their donations to the OWWA Office in Jeddah by contacting administration staff member Ronald Reyes.
