For the past 18 years, Rosemarie, whom everyone calls Rose, has worked in Singapore caring for the same family.

In 2007, she left the Philippines with a heavy heart. Her baby was only four months old. Like many migrant mothers, she made the choice to work abroad so her children could grow up with better opportunities than she had.

Over time, Rose became far more than someone who helped around the house. She became part of the family she worked for. She was there through difficult moments, showing up day after day with patience and care.

Her employer shares this about her:

“Rose has to be protected. She inspires those around her with a quiet strength and sincerity that is rare.

She supported my family through my separation, my mother’s illness and passing in 2024, and my father’s surgery in 2025. We have to help her through this devastating diagnosis. Her family needs her to survive this.”,

Today, after nearly 20 years spent caring for others, Rose now finds herself in need of help.

She is the sole breadwinner for her family in Ilocos Sur, Philippines. Her income supports her husband, three children, and her elderly parents.

A Sudden Diagnosis That Changed Everything

On 21 January 2026, Rose received news that turned her life upside down.

Doctors diagnosed her with Stage 4A high-grade serous ovarian cancer.

What started as worrying symptoms soon led to a serious discovery. Scans revealed a tumour about 20cm wide growing from her right ovary. Cancerous tissue had also spread to parts of her abdomen and lower chest.

She has already undergone major surgery in Singapore to remove the tumour, measuring approximately 20cm by 16 cm. The procedure was extensive. Doctors performed a full hysterectomy and removed cancerous tissue found in her abdomen, pelvis, and upper chest.

The surgery was an important step. But it is only the beginning of treatment. 

Rose still needs chemotherapy and long-term recovery care. 

Helping Rose Continue Treatment Near Her Family

Rose has some insurance coverage that helped with urgent hospital care in Singapore. However, cancer treatment does not end after surgery.

Once she is medically stable, the plan is for Rose to return home to the Philippines. There, she can continue chemotherapy and recovery while being surrounded by her children and family.

Her Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) membership may provide some financial support, but it is estimated to cover only about S$700 to S$1000, and even that amount is not guaranteed. 

Even in public hospitals, chemotherapy sessions, medications, follow-up tests, and recovery care can still result in significant out-of-pocket costs.

The goal is to help her begin chemotherapy, stabilise her health, and return to the Philippines when she is fit to travel, where she can continue treatment close to her family.

Providing Stability During Her Recovery in Singapore

For now, Rose remains in Singapore as she recovers from surgery and prepares for the next stage of treatment. During this time, she will not be able to work or earn an income.

Ray of Hope is raising $13,437.60* to provide 12 months of replacement income ($1,100 per month), helping cover basic living needs while she focuses on treatment and recovery.

This support will give Rose the time and stability she needs to regain her strength before returning home to continue care near her loved ones.

The campaign goal includes a 1.8% payment processing fee.