A Tribute To Our Frontline Hero

It is easy to trust God when things are going well. Trusting in God at all times means trusting Him not only when things are smooth sailing, but also when things are with bumps and shaking. Nobody goes through life without facing troubles. We develop our character by trusting Him when we are faced with difficulties in our lives.

My nephew, a 27 year old front line Respiratory Therapist who was working in one of the public hospital in Nueva Ecija, Philippines died last September 10, 2021 due to CoVid virus. It was despite of all the careful handling like most frontline do.

 He was infected by a CoVid patient who also then died before him. All medical personnel  who handled this patient were also infected. But only my nephew died. 

Sadly, after 14 days of almost recovering, his body weakened and complications corrupted his immune system and compromised his internal organs.

14 days. It was a hopeful recovery at home, for a hero who unselfishly opted to be treated at home, so other patients may occupy the hospital bed intended for him.

If not with the care of his beloved girlfriend, who stayed  and nursed him at home, she took the risk of being infected too, as to save this frontline hero.

But God’s hand has better plans for him. His loving arms, held Jasper’s so that he could be in a better place.

Our family is grieving for his passing. We are all devastated. It’s so sudden...he is gone too soon.

It was so painful for the whole family, especially to my sister, his mother. Ateng Lyn, has 3 children and Jasper is her only son. He is her bestfriend, her companion, her shock absorber…her everything. 

Jasper is very kind, loving, thoughtful, sweet, caring, soft hearted, family oriented, and a selfless and compassionate individual. He will always think of others before himself.. You would see in his facebook cover this motto, “NOT HOW LONG , BUT HOW WELL YOU HAVE LIVED is the MAIN THING”. 

It was our mom (Jasper’s Grand mother) who taught us this motto. Every step you’ll take has a finish line. Make sure to leave good mark behind. Sa tagalog, “Ang lahat ay may katapusan kaya gawing mainam ang bakas na iiwanan”  

Jasper has well lived this lesson.

To my nephew Jasper:

You have lived your life with a greater purpose. You have lived a mark to all people in all ages. I salute your untiring and selfless service. Thank you for your bravery. We are so proud of you. You will forever remain alive in our hearts and mind. You maybe gone from our sight but never from our heart.  Rest in the presence of our Lord . It’s not a goodbye, but ‘till we see each other again in heaven. We love you so much, our fallen hero. 

A good name is more desirable than great riches; to be esteemed is better than silver or gold. (Proverbs 22:2)

To my Ateng (Jasper’s Mama), KC (Jasper’s fiancé) Ate Jerrielyn (eldest sister) Ditse Leigh (second sister) Lyana and Celina (Ate Jerrielyn’s daughter):

In all the challenges and difficulties that lies ahead, remember that we can only put our trust in God alone. May the Lord help all of you and may you find peace in HIM above all else. You will be strengthened under the shadow of HIS wings. He is our mighty and great God. Our times are in His hands. 

The Lord bless you, and keep you, make HIS face shine upon YOU, and be gracious to you. The Lord turn His face towards you, and give you peace. Amen.

Sometimes, when things are going wrong, it is hard to believe that God really does love us. It is in the tough times that the object in which we trust is really put to the test. But, as Henry Ford quote, ‘When everything seems to be going against you, remember that the airplane takes off against the wind, not with it.’ 

Trust that in all things, God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to His purpose.(Romans 8:28)

“Naked I came from my mother’s womb, and naked I will depart. The Lord gave and the Lord has taken away; may the name of the Lord be praised.”‭‭Job‬ ‭1:21‬ ‭