Tears from Heaven: 21 Years of CHILD Haus

The 21st anniversary celebration of CHILD Haus, an organization established by “Mader” Ricky Reyes to serve as a pillar of hope for kids affected by cancer, took place in the SM Mall of Asia Music Hall. The Sy family has continuously been a major backer of the establishment throughout its history: Henry “Tatang” Sy, Sr. in the early years and SM Prime Holdings Inc. in the last ten years. Hans Sy, the chairman of the executive committee, is carrying on his father’s legacy.

Mr. Sy and “Mader” Ricky led the event, and invitations were sent to a number of people and organizations that have supported CHILD Haus throughout the years. There were also a lot of kids there who had been “adopted” by CHILD Haus and were now living there. The media was also present and acknowledged the significant impact that organizations such as CHILD Haus make, as well as how they serve as the “answered prayers” for countless 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.

Karylle, a CHILD Haus regular and ardent supporter, led the kids in a lively song written by her husband, Yael Yuzon. Subsequently, the daughter of “Mader” Ricky performed a reworked version of “Handog” by Florante, tailored to the emotions of the kids at CHILD Haus. The kids had learned and rehearsed these two songs as a way to say “thank you” to all of the visitors who had contributed to the “haus” becoming a reality.

Ultimately, “Mader” Ricky and Mr. Sy agreed on the importance of this occasion, which honors 21 years of kindness, tenacity, and the giving and sharing attitude.

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