Single mom appeals for help for 3-year-old son with Hirschsprung disease

A single mother is asking for help for her three-year-old son who is suffering from Hirschsprung disease.

On Wednesday’s “24 Oras,” Athena Lascano said it’s difficult for her to see her child in pain and unable to do what other children could, such as going out of the house.

While the child’s father sent money every month, Athena said it was not enough for his medical and daily expenses. She also said she couldn’t leave their home to find work because she had to take care of her son.

“’Yung [PHP5,000] po kasi, pang-gatas lang niya. Gatas lang pang one month eh may colostomy, wipes, tubig. ’Di ko maiwan gawa ng kailangan ako yung mag-aasikaso sa kanya,” she said.

According to Mayo Clinic, Hirschsprung disease is a birth defect that “affects the large intestine (colon) and causes problems with passing stool.”

“Kung hindi mo siya lagyan ng suppository, ’di mo lagyan ng laxative, hindi mag-poopoo yung baby,” said Dr. Beda Espineda, pediatric surgeon at Philippine Children’s Medical Center.

Athena said her son had gone through surgery in the past, but he needed another one.

“Sana po matulungan niyo kami para sa anak ko. Gusto na po kasi niya mag-aral,” she said.

For those who wish to send help, GMA Kapuso Foundation is accepting donations through bank deposits, Cebuana Lhuillier, Shopee, GCash, PayMaya, Zalora, MegaMart, Globe Rewards, Metrobank credit card, and Lazada.

For more information, visit the GMA Kapuso Foundation website. – Franchesca Viernes/RC, GMA News