New ward aims to provide accessible, world-class healthcare for those in need
St. Luke's Medical Center unveils Evelyn D. Ang/Dāna Charity Ward
By Poch Eulalia
At A Glance
- 'Dāna reminds us that the true measure of healthcare is not just in the lives we save, but in the compassion we share.'
Many Filipinos are often one hospital bill away from losing everything.
It’s widely known that medical expenses can often cost families a lot, especially if the sickness persists. How then do the poorest of the poor afford to receive quality treatment for their ailments? St Luke’s Medical Center, through the St. Luke’s Medical Center Foundation, Inc. (SLMCFI), aims to do just that with the opening of its Evelyn D. Ang/Dāna Charity Ward. With the new ward, indigent Filipinos admitted to the facility do not need to worry about the costs.
Evelyn D. Ang was the late wife of donor Philip Ang. During a short speech presented in the conference room of St. Luke’s Medical Center, her niece Carmina recalled the charitable acts Evelyn had done for cancer patients and children in need. Meanwhile, "dāna" is a Sanskrit word that means “the practice of selfless giving.”
“Dāna reminds us that the true measure of healthcare is not just in the lives we save, but in the compassion we share,” notes St. Luke’s president and CEO Dr. Dennis Serano. “The Evelyn D. Ang/Dāna Charity Ward represents the very heart of St. Luke’s mission: To bring world-class healthcare to every Filipino regardless of background or circumstance.”
Patients have been admitted to the ward since Nov. 10. Some rooms were already occupied during the blessing of the ward, which took place on Monday, Nov. 24. There are over 36 beds ready for use, with four more currently undergoing final construction. Some rooms can fit up to four patients, while other solo rooms are for patients who need to be isolated. There is a pantry nearby for water and heating food. Visitors can also stay at the visitor’s lounge.
There is hope that the establishment of this ward can mark a start for highlighting the compassion that comes with healthcare. “ Evelyn D. Ang/Dāna Charity Ward is more than a facility,” shares SLMFCI president Dr. Benjamin S.A. Campomanes Jr. “It’s really a movement of collective generosity. Each donation represents a life changed. It’s a model of how generosity can be institutionalized to create systemic impact, helping families find hope and healing when they need it most.”