10-year-old boy falls into a pile of burning leaves after suffering from epileptic episode

A 10-year-old boy accidentally fell down from a tree and into a pile of burning leaves after he suffered from an epileptic episode.

According to a "Kapuso Mo, Jessica Soho" episode, Lester went with his relatives up the mountain.

While his uncle Napoleon and other relatives were busy cleaning up the area and setting the leaves on fire, they didn't notice that Lester strayed away.

Later, they were surprised by a loud cry. They immediately began looking for him.

"Narinig ko na umiyak siya, humingi ng tulong. Masakit daw ang katawan niya," said Winona, his aunt.

["I heard him crying, asking for help. He said his body ached."]

They found him having an epileptic seizure on the pile of burning leaves.

According to Lester, he just wanted to help.

After pulling Lester out, his relatives rushed him to the hospital, where he stayed for almost four months to be treated for the third degree burns all over his body.

Benalyn, Lester's mom, was working when the accident happened.

"Naawa ako sa kanya kasi s'yempre anak ko siya. Pinuntahan sa ospital, hindi niya maintindihan si Lester dahil sumisigaw, para akong nawala sa sarili," she said.

["I felt bad for him because he's my child. I went to the hospital, I couldn't understand Lester because he was screaming. It felt like I was going crazy."]

Because of the rising COVID-19 cases at the hospital, the doctors discharged Lester for the time being and advised his family to continue his treatment at home.

According to his family, Lester was a consistent honor student when the accident happened.

The lower part of Lester's body has been wrapped in bandages. While some of the wounds on his chin, and hands have started to heal, he still has trouble moving.

His feet still hurt whenever he stands up.

Lester would usually have four episodes of epilepsy a day. Winona shared that once Lester regained consciousness, he would automatically ask how long his seizure was.

Neurologist Dr. Michelli Mae Yusay explained how the seizures happened.

"Ang ating brain mayroon siyang kuryente. Nag sho-short circuit 'yung ating utak 'pag nagkakaroon ka ng seizure," said the neurologist.

["Our brains have electrical rhythms. It short circuits if there's a seizure."]

Yusay said it could be dangerous if the seizures last for more than five minutes. "You should bring the patient to the hospital," the doctor added.

When a seizure happens, Yusay said the patient should be made to lie on their side so they could breathe better. She also advised not to put anything inside their mouths to avoid choking.

"Madaming mga may epilepsy na nabubuhay nang tama (many people with epilepsy live normal lives)," said the neurologist.

"If you have a healthy lifestyle it will lessen your attacks, [but] most of the time [it's really medicines]," said Yusay, adding that if the medications weren't enough, the person would have to undergo surgery.

Although Lester is on his way to recovery, his family's earnings of P250 aren't enough to cover his treatment.

The KMJS team reached out to Lester's family and gave financial aid and medicine, while the local government of Kabugao, Apayao also offered to help.

"Gusto ko nang makapaglakad. Gusto ko na pong gumaling para makapasok po ako. Miss ko na po magka-honor," Lester said.

["I want to be able to walk. I want to get better so I can go to school again. I miss getting honors."]

For those who wish to help Lester, please deposit to:

WINONA BARINIT
4196 0468 66
Landbank of the Philippines
Tuao, Cagayan Branch

—Kaela Malig/RC/MGP, GMA News