The LUISA project of the Rheumatology Educational Trust Foundation, Inc. has always been at the forefront in helping systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients deal with their disease. Last November 15, 2008, we went to Bacolod City, aptly called the City of Smiles. For this special activity, we were privileged to be members of an energetic delegation comprised of LUISA Project chair Ms. Luisa Cojuangco-Cruz herself,  ma’am Jojie Elasegui, Drs. Sandra and Salvador Navarra, Dr. Ben Pablico, Dr. Olga Pabicon, Dr. Mon Trocio,  Dr. Francis Dimalanta, Ms Carol Marasigan and Ms Jo-ann Marasigan. Organizers headed by Sir Eli Tajanlangit and his staff including Jackie and other friends of Luisa reinforced the motivation and enthusiasm of the group.

A whooping 192 persons gathered at the Carmel of St. Joseph in Mandalagan.  The crowd consisted of 80 patients, 67 caregivers and 45 came from the various support groups. Dr. Sandra Navarra gave an overview on the LUISA project, Dr. Mon Trocio lectured on “caring for your heart”, Drs Ben Pablico and Olga Pabicon led the lay forum, and Dr. Francis Dimalanta went through the frequently asked questions regarding childhood SLE. The event was graced by city mayor, Atty. Evelio "Bing" R. Leonardia who pledged his support to the Project. The session ended with Mrs. Lisa Cojuangco-Cruz assuring her kababayans that the said gathering would certainly be not be last.

Another milestone for strengthening Lupus Advocacy in the Philippines…