Light Through Darkness: Valerie's Leukemia Journey is a page created with the intent of sharing our family's experiences about living and battling leukemia together. Hi, my name is Valerie Rose Chan, my friends call me Val, I’m 31 and from Legazpi City, Philippines. I am passionate about mentoring others to become servant-steward leaders. I enjoy teaching the Bible creatively in small groups, mini
stries, and the Church. And, with my love for coffee, I co-founded a business as mission called, Little Light Cafe. Last September 11, 2021, I was diagnosed with blood cancer — Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia and Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis. Since then, I’ve been in and out of the hospital often staying in for a month long due to treatments and low immune system. I’ve had countless blood transfusions and been through chemotherapies and immunotherapies. On November 26, 2021, I finally had my Bone Marrow Transplant with my elder sister as my donor. After this, I was diagnosed with a rare blood disorder called Pure Red Cell Aplasia, and my leukemia had relapsed. We’ve found out that my ALL subtype is Philadelphia Positive. I had to undergo salvage chemo and Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitor medication. But praise God I achieved complete remission after 40 days and stayed in remission for one and a half years. Last October 17, 2023, my leukemia had relapsed and it was suspected that I was resistant to my maintenance medications. From then on I have been battling against the disease again and have been trying all sorts of cutting-edge treatments. I made this page as a platform to inspire others journeying with sickness, suffering, and sadness. I hope to share my journey and reveal the glory of God’s faithfulness and goodness despite the many trials we face daily.