There are stories that remind us why hope matters. There are stories that shine quietly yet powerfully, the way light enters a room through a small window. This is one of them.
I recently had the privilege of speaking with Jhon Jhuven Lagaras, a young man from Biliran, Leyte. At 23, he carries a calm strength, the kind that only comes from surviving something most children should never have to face.
When Jhon was nine years old, he was a wish kid with Make-A-Wish, diagnosed with a critical illness called Langerhans Cell Histiocytosis, which affects the bones. In 2012, his wish “to go to Enchanted Kingdom” was granted – a day that turned out to be one of the most joyful memories of his childhood.
A Day When Worries Disappeared
When I asked Jhon what he remembered most about that trip, he smiled.
He shared that he was with another child who also had a similar illness. The two of them were able to enjoy the entire park almost like it was their own. “Parang na-solo namin ‘yung Enchanted Kingdom,” he said. The rides, the laughter, the freedom – it was a rare moment when he felt peace, without fears, hospital routines, or treatments.
He remembered feeling “masaya, masaya,” especially because he was with his parents. Their joy became his joy. It wasn’t just a fun day – it was a memory of being together, alive, and hopeful.
A Battle Fought More Than Once
But Jhon’s story didn’t end with that wish.
He shared something I didn’t expect. Another chapter of his journey that was far more difficult. His illness came back not once, but three times. The treatment had to be changed, and doctors were uncertain whether the new medication would help. He was the first child of his age to try that regimen, and they couldn’t promise results.
Instead of fear, he clung to prayer.
He told me how he spent weeks praying earnestly, even while preparing himself emotionally for what might come. His mother tried hard not to cry in front of him. His family went home for a month to gather strength before the next medical steps.
But when they returned to Manila for the lab results, something unexpected happened.
The tests came back clear.
The doctors were stunned. His family was moved to tears. And from that point on, his recovery continued.
As he recalled this part of his story, I felt chills. It was impossible not to see the hand of God in that moment.
Growing Up with Hope
Today, Jhon is a Grade 12 student working hard to finish his studies. He lights up when he talks about school. “Excited ako kapag nakikita ko ‘yung bunga ng effort ko,” he said. His joy comes from seeing his grades improve, knowing he’s building a better future.
And that childhood wish?
It planted something in him. A belief that even in the darkest seasons, moments of joy are possible. That people care. That kindness is real.
“It inspired me to work harder,” he said. “Parang ako naman, sarili ko, gusto ko naman din makapag-provide at makapagbigay ng good experiences someday.”
He dreams of giving back – maybe even becoming a wish granter or helping other children who are walking the path he once walked.
A Message from Jhon to Children with Critical Illnesses
When I asked what he wanted other children to know, he said something simple but deeply sincere:
“Huwag mawala ng pag-asa. Nasa Panginoon ang pag-asa. Kahit kaunti lang ang doubt, huwag mong hayaang kainin ka nun.”
Hope, faith, and courage – these guided him through his toughest moments.
Why His Story Matters
As a mom and as someone who believes in the power of faith, this conversation moved me. I saw a young man who has walked through valleys most of us will never experience, yet he stands with grace and gratitude.
Jhon’s story is a reminder that a wish is not just a moment.
It’s a spark.
A turning point.
A small flame that helps a child believe life can still be bright.
Make-A-Wish continues to bring this light to children across the country, and stories like Jhon’s show why their mission is truly life-changing.
A Survivor with Hope
From a nine-year-old boy enjoying a carefree day at Enchanted Kingdom, to a young man fighting relapse after relapse, to a survivor holding on to faith – Jhon has grown into someone who carries hope, not just for himself, but for others.
And that, for me, is the real magic – not of fantasy, but of compassion, courage, and the God who walks with us through every battle.