Months after surgery, child who had big lump on neck now studying, playing with friends

A child who had a huge lump on her neck is now able to study and play with her friends after undergoing surgery thanks to the GMA Kapuso Foundation.

In July 2021, Karizza Manota sought help for her five-year-old daughter Athena Regaza, who was diagnosed with cervical teratoma in 2018. A lump as heavy as a kilogram grew on her neck.

Because of this, she was unable to play with other kids because was embarrassed after getting teased. She also couldn't move her head properly because of the pain.

After just a month, Athena received surgery under pediatric surgeon Dr. Beda Espineda's supervision at the Philippine Children's Medical Center.

To see how she is now doing six months after her surgery, the GMA Kapuso Foundation visited the little girl in Samar and saw that she's now in a better condition.

Athena now has her eyes set on something for the future: "Pangarap ko po maging doktor. Gusto ko pong makatulong sa may sakit."

["It is my dream to become a doctor. I want to help others who are sick."]

The GMA Kapuso Foundation is holding the Operation Bukol project with the World Surgical Foundation for children with non-cancerous lumps.

Donations are accepted through bank deposits, Cebuana Lhuillier, Shopee, GCash, Pay Maya, Zalora, Mega Mart, Globe Rewards, Metrobank credit card, and Lazada.

For more information, visit the GMA Kapuso Foundation website.

—Franchesca Viernes/MGP, GMA News