Screengrab from Doc. Willie Ong

In a heartfelt and raw update, beloved public health advocate and doctor, Doc Willie Ong, opened up about his ongoing battle with a rare and aggressive form of cancer called sarcoma. In a video recorded from his hospital bed, Doc Willie revealed that he has been diagnosed with a 16x13x12 cm tumor located in his abdomen, hidden behind his heart and in front of his T10 spine.

Doc Willie’s journey with this illness began back in 2022 after the elections, though he didn’t feel any major symptoms at the time. "Okay naman ako, wala naman gaanong naramdaman," he said. However, by 2023, things began to change. He started feeling heavy, fatigued, and short of breath, especially in warmer conditions. "Pag mainit, ayaw ko na, hindi ko na kaya," he shared, noting that these symptoms worsened over time.

In August 2023, Doc Willie hit his lowest point, dealing with excruciating back pain and struggling to sleep flat. After several tests, the tumor was finally discovered. The mass had grown so large that it partially blocked his esophagus, inferior vena cava, and even pressed against his heart’s right atrium, making swallowing and breathing difficult.

Doc Willie’s road to diagnosis wasn’t easy. He shared how, after experiencing intense pain, he was admitted to a hospital in Manila. “Mula sa pag-upo sa lazy boy hanggang sumikat ang araw, walang tulog, dasal ng dasal. It was the worst pain of my life—10 out of 10." His words paint a vivid picture of just how tough this journey has been for him.

The tumor was massive, one of the largest the doctors had seen. It was located in a tricky spot, making it undetectable both from the front and the back. "Nagtago sa harap ng gulugod, nakadikit sa puso," he explained.

In his video, Doc Willie also spoke about the biopsy process, the challenges of chemotherapy, and his decision to be transparent with his followers. “Mahal ko ang mga followers ko. I don’t want to lie to you,” he said. Despite the pain and the daunting journey ahead, his love for the Filipino people and his desire to help others continue to shine through.

Doc Willie reflected on how this experience has brought him closer to his family, especially his children, with whom he had felt some emotional distance. "Pamilya ko naging close," he shared, expressing gratitude for the support and love he's received during this difficult time.

Though his condition is serious, Doc Willie remains hopeful and focused on what matters most to him—his choices and his faith. "Alam ko may Diyos... Gagaling ba ako o hindi? I don't know," he admitted. Yet, he emphasized that what truly matters is how one chooses to live their life, whether to be kind and forgiving or not.

In his usual selfless spirit, Doc Willie continues to ask for prayers and hopes his story can inspire others who may be going through their own battles. “I love you all. Hindi ito biro, mahal ko talaga mga kababayan natin,” he concluded, his voice full of sincerity and warmth.

For now, Doc Willie is holding onto hope, focusing on his treatment, and cherishing the close bond he has built with his family. And while his future remains uncertain, one thing is clear: his dedication to his mission of helping others remains unwavering.