Jane's Story by Andrea H. Trinidad
Jane Agoncillo's life has been a testament to resilience, determination, and the power of community support. Diagnosed with moderate hemophilia herself, Jane found herself facing even greater challenges when both of her sons were diagnosed with severe hemophilia. Despite the hardships, she refused to be defined by her circumstances and instead became a beacon of hope for her family and her community.
As the chapter leader of the Hemophilia Advocates-Philippines (HAP) Bulacan Chapter, Jane has been instrumental in providing support and guidance to others facing similar struggles. Her leadership and advocacy have touched the lives of many, offering comfort and solidarity in the face of adversity.
However, like many families, the Agoncillo household was not spared from the economic impact of the pandemic. Jane's business faltered, and her husband lost his job, leaving them in a precarious financial situation. In their darkest hour, they turned to the Hemophilia Advocates-Philippines (HAP) network for support.
Through Save One Life's Micro-Enterprise Grant (MEG) program, Jane and her husband received a lifeline. With the grant, they were able to start a small sari-sari store and a computer repair shop, providing them with a source of income during uncertain times. Additionally, Jane's husband found employment with a Singapore-based company through the HAP network, further stabilizing their financial situation. Jane's resilience and determination did not stop there. During the pandemic, she seized the opportunity to enhance her skills and explore new avenues for employment. Through HAP's partnership with Virtualahan, Jane underwent training as a virtual assistant, opening doors to online job opportunities. Eventually, she secured a full-time position with an Australian company, further bolstering their income.
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