Tears from Heaven: CHILD Haus celebrates 21 years

 The 21st-anniversary celebration of CHILD Haus, an organization founded by 'Mader' Ricky Reyes to provide hope for children battling cancer, took place at the SM Mall of Asia Music Hall. Throughout its history, the Sy family has been a consistent major supporter of this institution. In its early years, Henry 'Tatang' Sy, Sr. was a strong supporter, and over the last decade, Hans Sy, Chairman of the Executive Committee at SM Prime Holdings Inc., has continued the tradition established by his father.

The event was led by Mr. Sy and 'Mader' Ricky, and various individuals and companies who have contributed to the well-being of CHILD Haus over the years were invited. Many children who have been embraced by CHILD Haus and now consider it their home were also in attendance. The presence of the media underscored the significant impact of organizations like CHILD Haus, which serve as 'answered prayers' for numerous children and their parents.

Three CHILD Haus stories, featuring Aya, Laura, and Jessa, were turned into video vignettes that highlighted the message of hope and the life-saving work of the organization. While it is easy to describe such events as heartwarming and tear-jerking, it was truly remarkable to witness even the most seasoned press photographers being moved to tears by these videos. This is a clear testament to the profound impact that these testimonials had on the audience at the event.

After ‘Mader’ Ricky's heartwarming welcome, Mr. Sy himself took the stage to present plaques of appreciation to the many friends of CHILD Haus whose generous donations have made the organization's life-saving work possible.

Those suffering from cancer and ‘adopted’ are provided food and shelter. There are presently two CHILD Haus locations - one in Manila, near the Philippine General Hospital, and one in Quezon City. Until the children are declared cancer-free and/or have completed their treatments and medical procedures, one child and one parent are allowed to live at CHILD Haus. If it’s an infant, both parents can stay.

A longtime supporter and regular visitor to CHILD Haus, Karylle, led the children in a rousing song composed by Karylle’s husband, Yael Yuzon. Then ‘Mader’ Ricky’s daughter sang a rendition of Florante’s ‘Handog’ that had been reworded to fit the sentiments of the children at CHILD Haus. These were two songs that the children had learnt and practiced as a “thank you” to the many guests who have helped make the ‘haus’ a reality.

In the end, both ‘Mader’ Ricky and Mr. Sy acknowledged the significance of this event, which commemorates 21 years of compassion, fortitude, and the spirit of giving and sharing.

To know more about inspiring stories and events at SM, visit www.smsupermalls.com or follow @smsupermalls on social media.