IWTS Earns ST. Jude accreditation, Bringing HOPE for Filipino kids battling cancer
“We have the stamp of St. Jude,” remarked Sheila Romero, Founder and CEO of IWTS, after attending the APAC Conference of ALSAC in Yokohama earlier this year. The Philippine General Hospital (PGH), a longtime partner of IWTS, endorsed the foundation to St. Jude, further solidifying its credibility and dedication. St. Jude's recognition of IWTS as a trusted ally in their global mission is not just an achievement—it’s a call to greater service.
On the partnership, Romero said, “We are deeply honored to collaborate with an esteemed organization like St. Jude Children’s Hospital. St. Jude’s unwavering commitment to ensuring that no child is left untreated aligns perfectly with our own vision.”
For 11 years now, IWTS has been dedicated to advocating for early childhood cancer detection and treatment, serving as a beacon of hope for pediatric patients at PGH. Through advocacy, resources, and support, IWTS has tirelessly worked toward its mission of ensuring every child has a fighting chance against cancer.
St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital is globally recognized for its groundbreaking work in childhood cancer research and catastrophic diseases. Since 1962, St. Jude has become a symbol of hope for families facing the most challenging diagnoses. This partnership signals a future filled with promise as IWTS and St. Jude join forces to continue their fight against the Big C for Filipino children.
Supporting this mission is the American Lebanese Syrian Associated Charities (ALSAC), founded in 1957 to raise the funds and awareness necessary to operate and maintain St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Their commitment to sustaining the hospital’s life-saving work through charitable donations perfectly complements the efforts of IWTS.
Earlier this year, IWTS held its annual "CAn Beat It" Graduation Ceremony, where the foundation honored150 children who have successfully completed their cancer treatment. The ceremony celebrated the courage, strength, and determination of these young survivors and provided a sense of hope for those still battling the disease. For the past 8 years, IWTS has been part of the healing journey of an average of 4,500 children.
The foundation also held its First Charity Gala at Shangri-La the Fort last year. It was a resounding success as the organization raised P19 million (net of expenses) to fund the establishment of a Childhood Cancer Helpline. The gala featured a fashion show filled with couture masterpieces by renowned designers, and were showcased by young cancer survivors who graced the runway.
Building on this success, IWTS is excited to host its next Charity Gala, set to take place in September 2025. All signs point to the upcoming gala being another spectacular evening of giving, inspiration, and celebration, uniting prominent figures from diverse fields who share the foundation’s commitment to creating a brighter future for children fighting cancer.
As Romero and her dedicated team in IWTS continue their journey, their message remains clear: by sharing hope, resources, and love, we can give every child the chance they deserve. IWTS’s story is one of resilience, and a steadfast belief that together, we can beat cancer.
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