ABBYGALE ARENAS DE LEON
Certified Image Consultant, Managing Director, Personi-fi Image Studio, Inc.
Binibining Pilipinas – Universe 1997
“Small victories matter; celebrate them.”
Early detection is a lifesaver — it gives you the best chance to fight and win. I understand the fear but avoiding it won’t make it go away. Cancer is not a death sentence when caught early. Taking action is the ultimate act of love for yourself and the people who care about you…
I learned to take things one day at a time, focusing on small victories like getting through treatment or spending time with my family… My husband, (photographer) Jun de Leon, didn’t just stand by me — he fought alongside me. His unwavering love, strength, and faith gave me the courage to face every chemo session, every tough day, and every moment of fear. I formed a deeper bond with him and our family. Cancer stripped away all the noise and reminded me of what truly matters—love, faith, and connection. It also gave me a renewed sense of purpose and a stronger relationship with God.
I volunteer for ICanServe because I believe in its mission to empower women with knowledge, support, and hope in their fight against breast cancer. Having gone through my journey, I understand how vital it is to have a community that uplifts and guides you when you feel lost and afraid. Volunteering allows me to give back by sharing my story and reminding others that they are not alone in this battle… Hearing their stories (also) strengthens my commitment to this cause. It’s a beautiful reminder that hope, love, and solidarity can truly change lives.
#ICSat25
#SurvivorStories
- “Small victories matter; celebrate them.”
- ABBYGALE ARENAS DE LEON Certified Image Consultant, Managing Director, Personi-fi Image Studio, Inc. Binibining Pilipinas – Universe 1997
- Abbygale with husband, Jun de Leon
- Abbygale with her sons, Irijah and Eli de Leon
- From right: Abbygale Arenas de Leon hosting ICanServe’s Alamin Salamin with ICanServe president, Nikoy de Guzman, fellow volunteers Liz Uy, Lala Flores and Celeste Tuviera and ICanServe participant, Annabelle Fajardo (4th from right)
- Learn about breast cancer signs and symptoms: https://www.icanservefoundation.org/about-breast-cancer/
- Download the breast cancer patient manual: https://www.icanservefoundation.org/patients-manual/
Photos by: Jun de Leon and Oliver de Leon, ICanServe archives
Icons of Hope is a social media campaign that features cancer survivors who share their own stories, learnings and the lives they now live. It is part of ICANSERVE Foundation’s 25th anniversary celebration in collaboration with Camera Club of the Philippines. With thanks to Owen Santos and Zonia Bandoy.