A leukemia survivor from Naga who once intended to pursue engineering has become a licensed medical doctor this month, 15 years after his cancer diagnosis inspired him to enter the medical field.
Dan Ceazar O. Baldoza was set to start college on June 7, 2011, but was instead hospitalized and diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia, a form of cancer affecting the blood and bone marrow. He spent the following four years undergoing treatment and frequent hospital stays.
“Fifteen years ago, I was the one lying in a hospital bed, praying for another chance at life. Today, by God’s grace, I am a licensed medical doctor,” Baldoza shared.
While undergoing treatment, he saw doctors, nurses and other health care workers provide comfort to patients facing pain and uncertainty. Witnessing their compassion, along with the joy he felt whenever fellow patients recovered, gradually led him to pursue medicine.
After completing his treatment, Baldoza resumed his studies and became a registered medical technologist. He later earned his Doctor of Medicine degree and obtained his medical license.
As he begins his career caring for patients, Baldoza hopes to bring the same compassion he experienced into his practice. Still, he acknowledged that his experience as a patient does not mean he can completely understand what every patient goes through.
“I know I will never fully understand every patient’s journey, but I hope I will always remember what it felt like to be one,” he said.
Baldoza expressed gratitude to his family, Doc Afable and the medical team who inspired him, along with everyone who supported him through prayers and encouragement.
“May I never forget the boy who once needed healing, and may I always treat my patients with the compassion and care that I once received.”
