The story of Nenita C. Lood, 69 years old, a resident of Brgy. San Juan, Nasipit, Agusan del Norte, is a testament that even amid hardship, hope remains alive when there are compassionate hands willing to help.
Nenita and her husband both require maintenance medication after being diagnosed with serious illnesses such as Cerebrovascular Disease (CVD) Infarct and Hypertensive Cardiovascular Diseases. Both of them have also suffered strokes—an experience that is not only physically debilitating but also financially exhausting for their family.
Formerly fishermen, the couple now relies solely on a modest pension, which must cove
r their daily needs. They have five children, all with families and obligations of their own, and while their children extend help when they can, it is not enough to sustain the continuous cost of their daily medications.
Because of this, the couple sought assistance from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Field Office Caraga through the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS) program, particularly for medical support.
Through the initiative of the assigned social worker—whom Nenita described as compassionate and understanding—they were granted medical assistance. This support enabled them to purchase their maintenance medicines, which are vital to sustaining their lives.
“I am truly grateful, Ma’am, to the social worker who assisted me. She was compassionate and understanding of our situation. I am also very thankful to DSWD because every time we approach the office, we are provided with assistance for the medicines we need,” Nenita shared.
This was not the first time they received help. For the past three years, Nenita and her husband have been beneficiaries of medical assistance from DSWD Caraga. Every three months, they receive free medicines—an immense relief for their family.
The experience of Nenita and her husband proves that the AICS program of DSWD does not merely provide financial assistance, but also serves as a medicine of hope for families facing life’s challenges. Through collective effort and public compassion, their hope and determination continue—reminding us that even amid illness and scarcity, there is a government ready to listen and extend help.
