By Ernest Hernandez
Emmanuel "Boybits" Victoria (MB file photos)Former PBA Rookie of the Year Emmanuel "Boybits" Victoria is currently in critical condition after being diagnosed with Guillan-Barre Syndrome (GBS), a rare disease wherein the immune system is attacking nerve cells in the peripheral nervous system.
After a few days being confined in the ICU of San Juan de Dios Hospital, Bing Victoria is monitoring his brother’s condition. Things are not getting any better as of this writing.
“May mga symptoms na maging slower ang recovery daw ni Boy,” said Bing.
“Doctor said transparent enough to say respiratory is already damaged too. That is why, within the week or sooner, he will do a tracheostomy. Aalisin intubation, bubutasan siya sa throat, at nakakabit sa ventilator/respirator kasi yun ang best supportive care for him in the long run.”
He also said that Boybits is under life support that aids him in his breathing.
“Until he can breath on his own ang pagtanggal ng ventilator. Ventilator din ang rehab ni Boy (re: respiratory muscles niya). He is still in GBS critical period this week, until next, rough estimate,” he said.
Boybits is still suffering from the multiple complications of GBS which affected his eyes, respiratory muscles, upper and lower extremities. His food intake is dependent now on a tube that feeds him through his throat.
Victoria was well known for his early days playing for Swift Mighty Meaty, Sunkist, and San Miguel.
For those who wish to help the Victoria family with Boybit’s medical bills, they may contact any member of his family, Noel Zarate, Kristina Maralit or Carlo Pamintuan.