Last January 15, 2003, the Second edition of ” ICanServe: A Network of People, Places and Services for the Philippine Breast Cancer Community ,” was launched at the Hidalgo Room, Hildalgo Building, Rockwell Compound in Makati.
The first of its kind, the book “ICanServe…” is a resource guide for breast cancer survivors and a breast care health guide for any woman. It is written by Kara Magsanoc-Alikpala, a broadcast journalist and documentarian, founder of the ICanServe Foundation and a breast cancer survivor.
On its 2nd edition, the book is a directory of cancer support groups in the country, hospice care, companies and individuals willing to render a service for free or at a discount to the breast cancer community like Ricky Reyes, Avon and Propaganda for Look Good Feel Good programs, Reggie Aspiras for free cooking demos for healthy recipes and many more.
It also has a section called “Survivors Speak,” where cancer survivors talk about their ongoing battle with cancer like Marisette Galang, and the late Trisha Borromeo, pre-school educator and fashion mode, who explains why she chose alternative medicine. Actress Maritoni Fernandez, cover of the book writes about the dilemma common to cancer survivors, “Having Children After Chemotherapy.” Other survivors give tips on coping with cancer treatments and caring for the caregiver.
Trisha Borromeo demonstrates the many ways to wear a wig and model Angel Jacob teaches post-mastectomy arm exercises.
The newest section of the book, “What Every Woman Should Know,” talks about early breast cancer detection, breast self exam and other breast care health information.
Dennis Balangue was creative director for the book and Joachim Bondoc did the principal photography.