5 Years of Homeschooling

We had our first day of homeschooling yesterday. We are still using the AmblesideOnline Curriculum following the Year 4 Weekly Schedule for my now 6th Grader. As for my toddler, I don't have a fixed schedule yet. He is still 4 yo and we still have 2 more years to make things “formal” for him. For now, we will continue with what we usually do, which I previously shared here.

As part of my preparation before our school year began, I mapped out our schedule from the beginning. I gathered books even before we begin our year and they were already stacked on the shelf, although it is not yet complete and we are still waiting for some more books. Different maps were printed out, links to our hymns and songs were prepared as well. Most of the supplies were ready. Praise God for the provision and to my supportive husband! Thankfully, there is also a very supportive AO FB Group with generous Moms who willingly and unselfishly share their personal resources which in turn benefited us immensely. I've reviewed CM's 20 Principles and listened to Audio Book of CM's Volume 1, Home Education and I am hoping to read more in the coming days.

Fortunately, I was able to attend the ON FIRE Philippine Homeschool Conference last September 22. Imagine, in my five years of homeschooling, it was my first time! I'll tell more on that in the coming days. But I am so grateful I got the opportunity to attend. I have a lot of takeout from great speakers.

So, this is what we are going to do this school year:

We have new additions to our schooling: Latin, Dictation, Grammar, Plutarch and Shakespeare's original plays. It feels overwhelming (I know) but we will take it slow and easy.

At times I still feel the lack of preparation and wish that I have more time and be more intentional. But at least, I was able to choose a pace that is only fitting to our needs and style. We can always adjust along the way (if there's a need).

Also, just to share, I finally came up with our own homeschool name which is, MARFA HOMESCHOOL ACADEMY. I think we are the first Marfa in the clan to homeschool (at least as far as I know). Our tagline is Know, Grow, Glorify from 2 Peter 3:18 (not very original).

But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and forever! Amen. ~ 2 Peter 3:18 New International Version (NIV)

We started our first day with cake for breakfast to make it memorable and so far, by the grace of God, everything went really well. Here's a photo of my child's First Day of the Year:

AO Year 4 Books

As we enter another wonderful journey, I pray for another great school year. For God's guidance, wisdom and provision in this work. I pray for our relationship to grow deeper as we share new experiences and new ideas together. For God to increase our awe for His world and inspire our hearts.

You might also want to read:

4 Years of Homeschooling
3 Years of Homeschooling

5 Years of Homeschooling

We had our first day of homeschooling yesterday. We are still using the AmblesideOnline Curriculum following the Year 4 Weekly Schedule for my now 6th Grader. As for my toddler, I don't have a fixed schedule yet. He is still 4 yo and we still have 2 more years to make things “formal” for him. For now, we will continue with what we usually do, which I previously shared here.

As part of my preparation before our school year began, I mapped out our schedule from the beginning. I gathered books even before we begin our year and they were already stacked on the shelf, although it is not yet complete and we are still waiting for some more books. Different maps were printed out, links to our hymns and songs were prepared as well. Most of the supplies were ready. Praise God for the provision and to my supportive husband! Thankfully, there is also a very supportive AO FB Group with generous Moms who willingly and unselfishly share their personal resources which in turn benefited us immensely. I've reviewed CM's 20 Principles and listened to Audio Book of CM's Volume 1, Home Education and I am hoping to read more in the coming days.

Fortunately, I was able to attend the ON FIRE Philippine Homeschool Conference last September 22. Imagine, in my five years of homeschooling, it was my first time! I'll tell more on that in the coming days. But I am so grateful I got the opportunity to attend. I have a lot of takeout from great speakers.

So, this is what we are going to do this school year:

We have new additions to our schooling: Latin, Dictation, Grammar, Plutarch and Shakespeare's original plays. It feels overwhelming (I know) but we will take it slow and easy.

At times I still feel the lack of preparation and wish that I have more time and be more intentional. But at least, I was able to choose a pace that is only fitting to our needs and style. We can always adjust along the way (if there's a need).

Also, just to share, I finally came up with our own homeschool name which is, MARFA HOMESCHOOL ACADEMY. I think we are the first Marfa in the clan to homeschool (at least as far as I know). Our tagline is Know, Grow, Glorify from 2 Peter 3:18 (not very original).

But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and forever! Amen. ~ 2 Peter 3:18 New International Version (NIV)

We started our first day with cake for breakfast to make it memorable and so far, by the grace of God, everything went really well. Here's a photo of my child's First Day of the Year:

AO Year 4 Books

As we enter another wonderful journey, I pray for another great school year. For God's guidance, wisdom and provision in this work. I pray for our relationship to grow deeper as we share new experiences and new ideas together. For God to increase our awe for His world and inspire our hearts.

You might also want to read:

4 Years of Homeschooling
3 Years of Homeschooling

5 Years of Homeschooling

We had our first day of homeschooling yesterday. We are still using the AmblesideOnline Curriculum following the Year 4 Weekly Schedule for my now 6th Grader. As for my toddler, I don't have a fixed schedule yet. He is still 4 yo and we still have 2 more years to make things “formal” for him. For now, we will continue with what we usually do, which I previously shared here.

#LittleManGael's Journey to a Better Vision - Part 4: The Big Day!

Dear Gael,

Remember this day, September 17, 2018.

This day was your big day, your IOL implantation, the start of your new and better vision since you were born.

The last week of waiting for this glorious day was like the longest week for me. I was so paranoid because we need to make sure that you will not catch a cough, colds or any kind of sickness lest the operation will not push through. But I'm always reminded that if this is God's will, nothing can hinder it. Many are also praying and encouraging us to rest in God's sovereignty.

#LittleManGael's Journey to a Better Vision - Part 4: The Big Day!

Dear Gael,

Remember this day, September 17, 2018.

This day was your big day, your IOL implantation, the start of your new and better vision since you were born.

The last week of waiting for this glorious day was like the longest week for me. I was so paranoid because we need to make sure that you will not catch a cough, colds or any kind of sickness lest the operation will not push through. But I'm always reminded that if this is God's will, nothing can hinder it. Many are also praying and encouraging us to rest in God's sovereignty.

Many people are excited for you and rejoicing with us in this new milestone. Your Kuya always tells us that he is excited for the big day. The night before your operation, he initiated to pray for you.

As your Dad accompanies you inside the Operating Room, he was reminded that God loves you more than we do. It hurts him seeing you knocked down by the anesthesia and wants to spare you as much as possible from the pain, but we know that we need to entrust you to God.

As I read your doctor's message that they will be starting in a while and they will be praying all throughout the procedure, tears fell from my eyes. I know that God is on top of this. There is fear but there is also an assurance.

The operation was a success! Glory to God! It took less than an hour only. Your doctor explained what they did. They had a hard time with your one eye but God is our great Physician, they were able to make way to put the lens on it. I hugged her and I was like bursting into tears out of gratitude. I managed to hold it until I was in the comfort room. There, I just poured out everything, thanking the Lord for everything.

When you went back to the ward, you got very wroth and you repeatedly say, "I cannot see!". But God put you back to sleep and when you woke up again, you were much relaxed and you were able to see with one eye. You prefer to open not your other eye because of the pain.

One of the hardest things for a parent is knowing that there is something wrong with your child. When we first found out about your eye condition, our first response, being susceptible to human emotion and rationalization, we immediately ask God, WHY? But God said to me, "he is mine". You and your Kuya are not our own, but only lives entrusted to our care and I was embraced with His comfort. I know that He has plans for both of you and we just need to cooperate in that plan.

In the last 4 years, as we grow daily, we began to ask WHAT - what do you want us to learn, God? We are learning to wait upon the Lord, to rest in His sovereignty, to trust in Him only.

And as we were faced by the reality of your operation and expenditures, we asked God, HOW? He answered everything in His time, in His ways. 

We didn't pay for your operation, we just added very little amount because we gave a portion of the money donated for your lens as a tithe. Our Jehova-Jireh provided everything. He used different people and institutions; the people who donated for your lens, your Optha doctors, Maxicare and Philhealth. Who would have thought we will be in a private hospital this time?

What seems impossible to us was made possible by God, who is faithful. Have we decided to do it our way, we would not experience God's work and provision in this journey and the blessing of delayed gratification. As what our small group leader said, we are all part of God's body, and each one of us has a purpose, and when people respond to what the Lord is asking them to do, all glory goes to Him! 

Before going home

On the day of your discharge from the hospital, we found out that your doctor was also going thru their own battles. We were immensely blessed because despite the storms they are going through, they still chose to joyfully serve Him. What an inspiration!

It was such a privilege to be part of #LittleManGael's journey to a better vision. We are such in awe of God's wonders, how He orchestrated everything. This is another testimony of His faithfulness to our family.

Remember this day, Gael...

We would like to thank everyone for being with us in thoughts and in prayers. We will be forever grateful to those people whom the Lord used and willingly responded to God's call. We couldn't thank each one of you enough. May the Lord return all the favor hundredfold back!

Please continue to pray for Gael's recovery and healing.

"Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful." ~ Hebrews 10:23 NIV

You may also read:

#LittleManGael's Journey to a Better Vision - Part 1

#LittleManGael's Journey to a Better Vision - Part 2

#LittleManGael's Journey to a Better Vision - Part 3

#LittleManGael's Journey to a Better Vision - Part 4: The Big Day!

Dear Gael,

Remember this day, September 17, 2018.

This day was your big day, your IOL implantation, the start of your new and better vision since you were born.

The last week of waiting for this glorious day was like the longest week for me. I was so paranoid because we need to make sure that you will not catch a cough, colds or any kind of sickness lest the operation will not push through. But I'm always reminded that if this is God's will, nothing can hinder it. Many are also praying and encouraging us to rest in God's sovereignty.

Many people are excited for you and rejoicing with us in this new milestone. Your Kuya always tells us that he is excited for the big day. The night before your operation, he initiated to pray for you.

As your Dad accompanies you inside the Operating Room, he was reminded that God loves you more than we do. It hurts him seeing you knocked down by the anesthesia and wants to spare you as much as possible from the pain, but we know that we need to entrust you to God.

As I read your doctor's message that they will be starting in a while and they will be praying all throughout the procedure, tears fell from my eyes. I know that God is on top of this. There is fear but there is also an assurance.

The operation was a success! Glory to God! It took less than an hour only. Your doctor explained what they did. They had a hard time with your one eye but God is our great Physician, they were able to make way to put the lens on it. I hugged her and I was like bursting into tears out of gratitude. I managed to hold it until I was in the comfort room. There, I just poured out everything, thanking the Lord for everything.

When you went back to the ward, you got very wroth and you repeatedly say, "I cannot see!". But God put you back to sleep and when you woke up again, you were much relaxed and you were able to see with one eye. You prefer to open not your other eye because of the pain.

One of the hardest things for a parent is knowing that there is something wrong with your child. When we first found out about your eye condition, our first response, being susceptible to human emotion and rationalization, we immediately ask God, WHY? But God said to me, "he is mine". You and your Kuya are not our own, but only lives entrusted to our care and I was embraced with His comfort. I know that He has plans for both of you and we just need to cooperate in that plan.

In the last 4 years, as we grow daily, we began to ask WHAT - what do you want us to learn, God? We are learning to wait upon the Lord, to rest in His sovereignty, to trust in Him only.

And as we were faced by the reality of your operation and expenditures, we asked God, HOW? He answered everything in His time, in His ways. 

We didn't pay for your operation, we just added very little amount because we gave a portion of the money donated for your lens as a tithe. Our Jehova-Jireh provided everything. He used different people and institutions; the people who donated for your lens, your Optha doctors, Maxicare and Philhealth. Who would have thought we will be in a private hospital this time?

What seems impossible to us was made possible by God, who is faithful. Have we decided to do it our way, we would not experience God's work and provision in this journey and the blessing of delayed gratification. As what our small group leader said, we are all part of God's body, and each one of us has a purpose, and when people respond to what the Lord is asking them to do, all glory goes to Him! 

Before going home

On the day of your discharge from the hospital, we found out that your doctor was also going thru their own battles. We were immensely blessed because despite the storms they are going through, they still chose to joyfully serve Him. What an inspiration!

It was such a privilege to be part of #LittleManGael's journey to a better vision. We are such in awe of God's wonders, how He orchestrated everything. This is another testimony of His faithfulness to our family.

Remember this day, Gael...

We would like to thank everyone for being with us in thoughts and in prayers. We will be forever grateful to those people whom the Lord used and willingly responded to God's call. We couldn't thank each one of you enough. May the Lord return all the favor hundredfold back!

Please continue to pray for Gael's recovery and healing.

"Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful." ~ Hebrews 10:23 NIV

You may also read:

#LittleManGael's Journey to a Better Vision - Part 1

#LittleManGael's Journey to a Better Vision - Part 2

#LittleManGael's Journey to a Better Vision - Part 3

#LittleManGael's Journey to a Better Vision - Part 3

The night before we went back to the hospital, I prayed for a good weather. However, in the morning it was raining. Despite the weather, I left home with two boys in tow.

It was hard and I kept complaining in my mind. But I praise God because when we reached Estrella, it wasn't raining anymore. We arrived a few minutes before 9:00 AM in the hospital. I claimed the laboratory and X-ray results and praise God, I don't see anything alarming. 

#LittleManGael's Journey to a Better Vision - Part 3

The night before we went back to the hospital, I prayed for a good weather. However, in the morning it was raining. Despite the weather, I left home with two boys in tow.

It was hard and I kept complaining in my mind. But I praise God because when we reached Estrella, it wasn't raining anymore. We arrived a few minutes before 9:00 AM in the hospital. I claimed the laboratory and X-ray results and praise God, I don't see anything alarming. 

We met our Optha again. She announced, that according to Philhealth, they will only cover one eye, which was not a good news. The HMO will likely be the same according to her. But we will be able to know that during admission. She said we can still pray for it to be in.favor.of.us.

But our Optha.prefer doing both eyes at the same time. Otherwise, Gael would need to undergo two separate operations and having two general anesthesia will not be good for him. She said, she talked to her husband (their both Optha and her husband will do the surgery) and they agreed to do both at the same time but they will not charge Professional Fees so that in case the HMO will not cover both eyes, we don't need to cash-out a big amount of money. To lessen also the operating costs, they volunteered to bring their own materials and operating tools. They are trying to minimize the costs in order to use the HMO allotment wisely. I felt like crying in front of her but I tried to compose myself. She checked the lab results and handed us the admitting order. She said we don't have to worry about the IOL payment at this point. We can delay it in case we will have other fees to cover. She said she'll make way. 

When I shared everything to my husband, he said he was crying. We were both in awe of how the Lord is putting things in order. We were amazed, so amazed at God's favor! God is using these doctors and others to really bless us. This is all His doing.

Later, we've met the Pedia and everything went well. We have issued a clearance since all results are good. We headed next to. Medical City.for the Biometry. 

Unfortunately, the Biometry request wasn't accepted at the HMO Office, the Optha signed was not accredited. If I pay it on cash, it's a bit pricey. But the guy assisting us gave an option to have a consultation with an accredited Optha and asked for a request instead. After checking his files, we were referred to Gael's former Optha (back when we were still living in Pateros). However, my dilemma was that the Eye Center where we can have the Biometry Test will be closed by 3:00PM. 

Our queue number when we went to the room is number 9 and it was 2:00 PM already. The patient inside was in number 2. I started to become anxious but I kept praying to God.to let us beat the time because I don't want to go back on a different day.

When the 5th Patient was called, I braved and told the secretary if we can just have a request for Biometry, with no consultation (as advised by hubby). She told me why I didn't ask upfront. Anyway, since Gael already have a record, the request was handed in a few minutes. 

We run straight back to the HMO for another approval. However, there are 5.more in the queue before my number. I tried to look for the guy who assisted us initially, but he's gone. I asked the lady next to him and she said he's on break. I told her my concern, that I need to hit the 3:00PM schedule. She asked me if I was just asked to go back and I said yes. She offered to handle my request instead. Praise God! We were able to get to the Eye Center before 3:00 PM. Gael was very cooperative and we were able to get the result afterward. 

I really thank the Lord for this day. We accomplished everything and although it wasn't smooth and easy, God made a way. We will just need to wait for our scheduled operation and praying that Gael will not catch a cough, colds or any sickness while waiting.

This day, I've seen and witnessed how God is moving and orchestrating everything. Despite my complaining and worrying. 

At night, when we were about to sleep, as I recollected what happened to us this day and how the Lord has been so, so faithful, I was just amazed. In tears, I told Gabi that I hope one day, he will be able to share with his little brother God' wondrous work in his life, how God loves our little man, Gael. 

To Him be all the glory!

You can also read:

#LittleManGael's Journey to a Better Vision - Part 1
#LittleManGael's Journey to a Better Vision - Part 2

#LittleManGael's Journey to a Better Vision - Part 3

The night before we went back to the hospital, I prayed for a good weather. However, in the morning it was raining. Despite the weather, I left home with two boys in tow.

It was hard and I kept complaining in my mind. But I praise God because when we reached Estrella, it wasn't raining anymore. We arrived a few minutes before 9:00 AM in the hospital. I claimed the laboratory and X-ray results and praise God, I don't see anything alarming. 

We met our Optha again. She announced, that according to Philhealth, they will only cover one eye, which was not a good news. The HMO will likely be the same according to her. But we will be able to know that during admission. She said we can still pray for it to be in.favor.of.us.

But our Optha.prefer doing both eyes at the same time. Otherwise, Gael would need to undergo two separate operations and having two general anesthesia will not be good for him. She said, she talked to her husband (their both Optha and her husband will do the surgery) and they agreed to do both at the same time but they will not charge Professional Fees so that in case the HMO will not cover both eyes, we don't need to cash-out a big amount of money. To lessen also the operating costs, they volunteered to bring their own materials and operating tools. They are trying to minimize the costs in order to use the HMO allotment wisely. I felt like crying in front of her but I tried to compose myself. She checked the lab results and handed us the admitting order. She said we don't have to worry about the IOL payment at this point. We can delay it in case we will have other fees to cover. She said she'll make way. 

When I shared everything to my husband, he said he was crying. We were both in awe of how the Lord is putting things in order. We were amazed, so amazed at God's favor! God is using these doctors and others to really bless us. This is all His doing.

Later, we've met the Pedia and everything went well. We have issued a clearance since all results are good. We headed next to. Medical City.for the Biometry. 

Unfortunately, the Biometry request wasn't accepted at the HMO Office, the Optha signed was not accredited. If I pay it on cash, it's a bit pricey. But the guy assisting us gave an option to have a consultation with an accredited Optha and asked for a request instead. After checking his files, we were referred to Gael's former Optha (back when we were still living in Pateros). However, my dilemma was that the Eye Center where we can have the Biometry Test will be closed by 3:00PM. 

Our queue number when we went to the room is number 9 and it was 2:00 PM already. The patient inside was in number 2. I started to become anxious but I kept praying to God.to let us beat the time because I don't want to go back on a different day.

When the 5th Patient was called, I braved and told the secretary if we can just have a request for Biometry, with no consultation (as advised by hubby). She told me why I didn't ask upfront. Anyway, since Gael already have a record, the request was handed in a few minutes. 

We run straight back to the HMO for another approval. However, there are 5.more in the queue before my number. I tried to look for the guy who assisted us initially, but he's gone. I asked the lady next to him and she said he's on break. I told her my concern, that I need to hit the 3:00PM schedule. She asked me if I was just asked to go back and I said yes. She offered to handle my request instead. Praise God! We were able to get to the Eye Center before 3:00 PM. Gael was very cooperative and we were able to get the result afterward. 

I really thank the Lord for this day. We accomplished everything and although it wasn't smooth and easy, God made a way. We will just need to wait for our scheduled operation and praying that Gael will not catch a cough, colds or any sickness while waiting.

This day, I've seen and witnessed how God is moving and orchestrating everything. Despite my complaining and worrying. 

At night, when we were about to sleep, as I recollected what happened to us this day and how the Lord has been so, so faithful, I was just amazed. In tears, I told Gabi that I hope one day, he will be able to share with his little brother God' wondrous work in his life, how God loves our little man, Gael. 

To Him be all the glory!

You can also read:

#LittleManGael's Journey to a Better Vision - Part 1
#LittleManGael's Journey to a Better Vision - Part 2

#LittleManGael's Journey to a Better Vision - Part 2

 

Last Wednesday, we went to the hospital where Gael will have his IOL Implant. I didn't wait for hubby to accompany us because he'll need at least two weeks before he can file for a vacation leave.

We met our Optha and she checked both my boys' eyes for free, yes for FREE! Praise God for generous doctors who are using their expertise in serving God! Both my kids had an eye test with their glasses on. She gave instructions and several requirements in preparation for the operation. On the other hand, she said Gabi is not color blind and his eyeglasses are still good.

We went to Pedia afterward for pre-operative clearance which is needed since he will undergo General Anesthesia. However, the Pedia said it will be better if a Pulmonologist will do the clearance. Unfortunately, the Pulmonologist in the hospital were both not covered by our HMO card. If we decide to have a consultation for a fee, the laboratory requests will not be covered also. God knows we don't have the money that is why we depend heavily on our health card.

Our Optha advised us to check with other Pedia covered by our card to see if there's one who can do the clearance instead of going to a Pulmonologist. Our Optha wants to have a Pedia in the same hospital so that in case they will be needing his/her expertise during the operation, it is easier to get in touch. We went back to the HMO Office to ask for a list of doctors under our health card.

I was given a long list (Praise God there are many of them). I checked which ones are available on that same day. After uttering a prayer to God to lead us to the right doctor, we went to the first one on the list. I knew it was past the schedule already (until 12:30NN only) and we came in her room I think past 12:30NN. But we were entertained nonetheless. And yes, she can do the clearance.

Gael was checked, few questions were asked and answered back, then we were given laboratory requests. After the blood extraction and X-ray, our last stop for the day was an Ocular Biometry. This will help us know the right size and grade for Gael's lens.

We headed straight to ProVision in Silver City and there met hubby who came from the office. However,  Gael is no longer cooperating during the test. He was a bit cranky and we had a hard time putting eye drops. We finally, managed to convince him. However, when the technician was trying to put a small tube device on his eye, that was where we really had a hard time.

It was getting late, Gael was tired, he has been out all day and I think the test is not suitable for kids as young as him. The technician admitted it will be their first time to try it on a kid. The tube he is trying to put in the eye will suppose to make a scan. But imagine the discomfort because it needs to be in your eye for a minute to complete a scan. There's also a danger of scratching the surface of the eye if Gael will be forced. So, definitely, no forcing.

We did everything we could to convince Gael, bribed him, but all didn't work. Our Optha said she can just use his old Biometry test result and make the necessary adjustments. We still have an option to do the Biometry via non-contact in Medical City.

After we left the clinic, I noticed Gabi crying and I called on his Dad to talk to him. He said he cried because he was so stressed because Gael doesn't want to cooperate.

I am not a very emotional person and sometimes it makes me irritated seeing him crying like that. I am not proud of this and I am praying that God will change me and give me a compassionate heart. Thankfully, hubby was with us. He is very intentional and he handles situations like this well. My husband comforted him and acknowledged his feelings. He explained that it's inconvenient for Gael to do the test and if he will put himself in his shoe it's really difficult and we need to understand that. This was another magic moment for them and I affirmed Romel for what he did because honestly, I cannot do it calmly. After they talked, I put my arm around Gabi and told him God has other plans. Few minutes past and he is back to his usual self.

Although the Biometry was not a success, I praise God for this day, His guidance and protection in our errands. He is on top of everything and we rejoice for what we have accomplished. We will be back in the hospital to get the lab results. Continue to pray with us that all results will be favorable.


You may also read:

#LittleManGael's Journey to a Better Vision - Part 3
#LittleManGael's Journey to a Better Vision - Part 4: The Big Day!

#LittleManGael's Journey to a Better Vision - Part 2

 

Last Wednesday, we went to the hospital where Gael will have his IOL Implant. I didn't wait for hubby to accompany us because he'll need at least two weeks before he can file for a vacation leave.

We met our Optha and she checked both my boys' eyes for free, yes for FREE! Praise God for generous doctors who are using their expertise in serving God! Both my kids had an eye test with their glasses on. She gave instructions and several requirements in preparation for the operation. On the other hand, she said Gabi is not color blind and his eyeglasses are still good.

#LittleManGael's Journey to a Better Vision - Part 2

 

Last Wednesday, we went to the hospital where Gael will have his IOL Implant. I didn't wait for hubby to accompany us because he'll need at least two weeks before he can file for a vacation leave.

We met our Optha and she checked both my boys' eyes for free, yes for FREE! Praise God for generous doctors who are using their expertise in serving God! Both my kids had an eye test with their glasses on. She gave instructions and several requirements in preparation for the operation. On the other hand, she said Gabi is not color blind and his eyeglasses are still good.

We went to Pedia afterward for pre-operative clearance which is needed since he will undergo General Anesthesia. However, the Pedia said it will be better if a Pulmonologist will do the clearance. Unfortunately, the Pulmonologist in the hospital were both not covered by our HMO card. If we decide to have a consultation for a fee, the laboratory requests will not be covered also. God knows we don't have the money that is why we depend heavily on our health card.

Our Optha advised us to check with other Pedia covered by our card to see if there's one who can do the clearance instead of going to a Pulmonologist. Our Optha wants to have a Pedia in the same hospital so that in case they will be needing his/her expertise during the operation, it is easier to get in touch. We went back to the HMO Office to ask for a list of doctors under our health card.

I was given a long list (Praise God there are many of them). I checked which ones are available on that same day. After uttering a prayer to God to lead us to the right doctor, we went to the first one on the list. I knew it was past the schedule already (until 12:30NN only) and we came in her room I think past 12:30NN. But we were entertained nonetheless. And yes, she can do the clearance.

Gael was checked, few questions were asked and answered back, then we were given laboratory requests. After the blood extraction and X-ray, our last stop for the day was an Ocular Biometry. This will help us know the right size and grade for Gael's lens.

We headed straight to ProVision in Silver City and there met hubby who came from the office. However,  Gael is no longer cooperating during the test. He was a bit cranky and we had a hard time putting eye drops. We finally, managed to convince him. However, when the technician was trying to put a small tube device on his eye, that was where we really had a hard time.

It was getting late, Gael was tired, he has been out all day and I think the test is not suitable for kids as young as him. The technician admitted it will be their first time to try it on a kid. The tube he is trying to put in the eye will suppose to make a scan. But imagine the discomfort because it needs to be in your eye for a minute to complete a scan. There's also a danger of scratching the surface of the eye if Gael will be forced. So, definitely, no forcing.

We did everything we could to convince Gael, bribed him, but all didn't work. Our Optha said she can just use his old Biometry test result and make the necessary adjustments. We still have an option to do the Biometry via non-contact in Medical City.

After we left the clinic, I noticed Gabi crying and I called on his Dad to talk to him. He said he cried because he was so stressed because Gael doesn't want to cooperate.

I am not a very emotional person and sometimes it makes me irritated seeing him crying like that. I am not proud of this and I am praying that God will change me and give me a compassionate heart. Thankfully, hubby was with us. He is very intentional and he handles situations like this well. My husband comforted him and acknowledged his feelings. He explained that it's inconvenient for Gael to do the test and if he will put himself in his shoe it's really difficult and we need to understand that. This was another magic moment for them and I affirmed Romel for what he did because honestly, I cannot do it calmly. After they talked, I put my arm around Gabi and told him God has other plans. Few minutes past and he is back to his usual self.

Although the Biometry was not a success, I praise God for this day, His guidance and protection in our errands. He is on top of everything and we rejoice for what we have accomplished. We will be back in the hospital to get the lab results. Continue to pray with us that all results will be favorable.


You may also read:

#LittleManGael's Journey to a Better Vision - Part 3
#LittleManGael's Journey to a Better Vision - Part 4: The Big Day!

#LittleManGael's Journey to a Better Vision - Part 1

I first mentioned my second born's eye condition on this post. I am so grateful to all the people who have helped us during his Cataract Surgery. My half-brother Doctor helped us to connect with other doctors in PGH and by God's grace, the operation went well. So Gael has been Aphakia (absence of the lens of the eye) since then and his glasses helped him a lot with his vision.

Fast forward, when Gael turned 3 yo, his doctor announced that he can be operated already. Since then, we started praying for Gael's IOL operation. His Optha said we need to prepare at least 120K for the entire costs should we want to have the operation be done in Medical City.

But since we don't have the means at that time, we decided to delay the operation and trusted God to lead us to the right people and the hospital. At the back of our minds, we can still go to PGH for the operation though I dreaded the process of dealing with government hospitals. I couldn't blame them though and I am grateful they do exist. They helped countless people including us. However, I'm really begging God if He wills it, to have it in a different hospital because it is really hard. 

The waiting process was not easy. I have the tendencies to be anxious and impatient. We want him to be operated at the soonest. It hurts us everytime he got hurt or bump because of his eyesight. But the Lord always comforts us and assured us that if we love Gael, how much more God's love for him? He wants the best for our son and we just need to trust him in this journey.

We met another Optha thru our small group leader. She gave us another option, much cheaper than Medical City. She said, we just need to prepare for the cost of the lens since most likely the doctor's fee and the cost of procedures will be covered by Philhealth. Thankfully also, husband's new HMO is way better than the previous one. It has a certain portion for Congenital Diseases.

However, since the lens is a bit pricey and we can't put up the money for it, we still put it on hold and kept praying. According to the doctor, there's no effect if it will be delayed, but the soonest it will be done, the better so his brain can also adjust the soonest.

Recently, the Lord made a way. He touched someone to donate money specifically for Gael's lens. A friend contacted us on his condition and pledged the money. It was another answered prayer for our family and our hearts are rejoicing! "The Lord is good to those whose hope is in Him, to the one who seeks Him (Lam. 3:25)! Nakakaiyak talaga ang Lord. He cares and knows the needs of His children.

At this moments, we are now coordinating with the new doctors about the operation. We thank God for His goodness. This is all about Him and all the glory goes to Him alone. Please pray with us for a smooth and easy preparation and for the entire process of the operation. Pray also that we will continue to trust the Lord no matter what. May this encourage you as well to put your hope to the One who is faithful.

But blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in him. They will be like a tree planted by the water that sends out its roots by the stream. It does not fear when heat comes; its leaves are always green. It has no worries in a year of drought and never fails to bear fruit. ~ Jeremiah 17:7-8 (NIV)

You may also read:

#LittleManGael's Journey to a Better Vision - Part 2
#LittleManGael's Journey to a Better Vision - Part 3
#LittleManGael's Journey to a Better Vision - Part 4: The Big Day!