Man with facial lump undergoes surgery with help from GMA Kapuso Foundation, UST Hospital

The GMA Kapuso Foundation has extended its helping hand to a man with a facial lump.

According to a “24 Oras” report on Friday, security guard Rico Galenzoga first discovered a small lump in his face in 1992. 

The lump grew over time, causing Rico to lose confidence in himself. He had not gotten the lump checked by a specialist, as he prioritized his family's needs. 

Per the report, Rico was among those who appealed for help from the GMA Kapuso Foundation's Operation Bukol Project. In January, he and other beneficiaries underwent surgery with the help of volunteer doctors from the University of Santo Tomas Hospital. 

“Mayroon dito isang cyst sa may mukha. Kung maliit ang problema, sandali lang, limang minuto, sampung minuto, tapos na ang problema. Huwag nating palalakihin,” said Dr. Robert Sy, a surgeon at UST Hospital. 

“The objective is to help patients who cannot afford medical or surgical care. That’s the objective. Patient service, primary, secondary,” added Dr. Zaida Gamilla, an obstetrician and gynecologist. 

The GMA Kapuso Foundation visited Rico a month after his surgery, and he showed renewed confidence. 

“Medyo naka-relax ako. Para malaking tinik din ang nawala sa buhay ko. Nagpapasalamat po ako nang napakarami sa GMA Kapuso Foundation, sa lahat ng staff, sa lahat ng tumulong sa akin,” Rico said. 

For those who wish to support GMA Kapuso Foundation's projects, donations may be made via Metrobank, Land Bank, BDO, Bank of Commerce, UnionBank, PNB, Cebuana Lhuillier, GCash, Lazada, and Shopee. Visit the GMA Kapuso Foundation website for more information.

—Jade Veronique Yap/CDC, GMA Integrated News