Health advocate and Cardiologist Willie Ong announced his cancer diagnosis on Saturday, September 14.
In a Facebook post, Ong, commonly known as 'Doc Willie,' shared the months leading to his diagnosis in a hospital room on August 29. The release of the video was delayed due to Doc Willie's serious and complicated journey with chemotherapy.
However, at the time of its release, he assured that he is feeling a bit better, physically and mentally, that's why he wants to be honest with his followers.
Doc Willie recalled mistaking the symptoms that he experienced as signs of ageing, as he was about to turn 60 in a few months when it got worse. He said his back pain got severe. He mentioned being unable to sleep.
"Sumasakit siya bigla. Sobra-sobra sakit. Worst pain of my life 10 out 10, iiyak ka. Buong gabi walang tulog; mula sa pag-upo sa lazy boy (recliner) sa gabi hanggang pagsikat ng araw walang tulog," he said.
"Sasakit siya na parang sinasaksak ng kutsilyo ang likod mo," he added.
Ong went through several medical tests before receiving his diagnosis. According to him, a 16x13x12 centimeter Sarcoma was fouund in his abdomen. The tumor was hidden behind the heart and in-front of the T10 (Thoracic Vertebrae) Spine. Due to this, Ong's esophagus, inferior venacava, and right atrium was blocked.
"Sabi ng doktor ko itong Sarcoma, mahirap na kalaban. Isa sa pinaka mahirap na cancer na kulang ang research, kulang ang bagong gamot," he stated.
Ong gained a steady following on social media, giving medical advice and wellness tips to people. He also frequented medical missions with his wife, Doc Liza, where they provided medical assistance to people.
