Conjoined twins in for ‘happy separation’

FORMER Special Assistant to the President Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go consoles a fire victim in Guadalupe Viejo, Makati. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

Conjoined twins Divine and Mercy of Sabang, Camarines Norte will get a good chance at living as separate, normal children as former Special Assistant to the President (SAP) Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go — upon learning of their condition — helped facilitate the provision of medical assistance for their surgery and treatment.

In a meeting on Sunday in Manila City with parents Rubelyn Guinto and Edmund Cerilo, the former SAP agreed to help shoulder all expenses for the clinical operation to separate the twins who were born connected to each other through their chest.

To make it convenient for the parents, Go assisted in renting a room for them in Sta. Cruz, Manila where they can stay temporarily.

On Monday, the twins were admitted to the 2nd floor, Pedia Ward 6 of the Philippine General Hospital (PGH) at Taft Ave. where Go had referred them. The PGH Pediatrics Surgery team welcomed Divine and Grace and interviewed their parents.

Before the twins were admitted, they underwent preliminary checkup procedures and the results are encouraging. According to Dr. Esther Saguil of PGH-Pediatric Surgery, the twins look fit for separation.

Dr. Saguil added that the Pediatrics Surgery team will have a meeting on Wednesday and will plan series of tests to prepare the twins for surgery.

She said the twins will undergo additional tests such as CT scan, 2D echo, and other procedures as may be necessary to fully assess their condition and prepare them properly for the surgical operation.