Last February, I visited Pedro Ballester’s website and asked for prayers for my aunt, who was scheduled to undergo open-heart surgery. Today, on Pedro’s earthly birthday, I want to share the favors I received through his intercession. I truly believe that Pedro accompanied my aunt every step of the way.
The day before my aunt's scheduled surgery, she suddenly developed a fever – despite having felt well for days with no chest pains or shortness of breath. Because of this, the operation had to be postponed, and she was examined for infection. Thank God her temperature spiked! Looking back, I can’t imagine what might have happened if she had gone through with the surgery while unknowingly fighting an infection. It could have been disastrous. I saw Pedro’s hand in that delay.
After five days, she was cleared for surgery. What was supposed to be a double bypass turned into a triple bypass. The doctors warned us that her heart muscle didn’t look good and her recovery would be uncertain. She stayed in the hospital for nearly two weeks.
Meanwhile, we were still scrambling to raise funds for her medical expenses. Incredibly, I received grants from two government agencies – and by the time she was discharged, every expense was covered. The donations we received were exactly enough. Truly a miracle of providence!
A few days after going home, my aunt’s feet began to swell, and she experienced shortness of breath and a persistent cough – likely from heart-related fluid buildup. A chest X-ray showed water in her lungs and a partially collapsed lung. The surgeon recommended a chest tube to be inserted as an outpatient procedure.
But on the way to the hospital, just 15 minutes away, she suddenly became pale, sweaty, and gasping for air. I was driving, and all I could do was speed up and pray – plead – with Pedro to help us reach the hospital in time. We made it. Instead of going to the ward, I rushed her to the ER [A&E]. She was attended to immediately. She stabilized over the next few days and was discharged after a week.
Again, we had just enough funds to cover her second hospitalization. The kindness of the doctors astounded us: the surgeon waived his professional fee, and the cardiologist and pulmonologist asked for only a small sum. It felt like heaven was working through them.
It’s been nearly three months. My aunt still goes for checkups and is adjusting her medication, but her feet no longer swell, and the cough is gone. She has begun cardiac rehab and can now walk longer distances. Her healing continues.
I cannot thank Pedro enough. I told my aunt about him, and now she turns to him too – for all sorts of favors!
Thank you, Pedro! You were truly there for us. Happy birthday!
MM (Manila, Philippines)
22 May 2025

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