Finding strength through family and care

At age 73, sponsored elder Guillermo in the Philippines is father to two children, both college graduates, and is retired from his job as an auto supply agent. Retirement offers him free time to enjoy moments with his grandchildren — time spent playing with them and cooking for them.

In his youth, Guillermo cared for carabao (water buffalo) and sheep on the farm along with plowing fields of corn, in much the same way his parents did.

He sadly lost his youngest child several years ago but is supported by his eldest daughter, who is a midwife, and three grandchildren who bring great joy into his life. Guillermo also experienced the loss of his wife in 2024, and she is fondly remembered for providing great love and care to her family.

“I feel sad whenever I miss my wife, but my grandchildren always cheer me up and they make me happy,” he said.

With a life centered around family, Guillermo spends much of his time at home, but he does make an exception when it comes to activities with Unbound.

Guillermo is one of more than 100 elders participating in a pilot program through a partnership between Unbound and Omaha-based Chronic Care International (CCI). The program assists elders with free medication, regular checkups and activities for participants.

Making good lifestyle choices

Guillermo has a family history of diabetes and high blood pressure. Before participating in the pilot program, he worked hard to manage his diabetes alone. Now with support from Unbound and CCI, he sees his health continuously improving.

“We have very kind and humble doctors and nurses who watch over our health improvement data,” he said.

With solid advice and caring assistance from the program, Guillermo has made many positive health changes. He has stopped smoking, avoids consuming soft drinks, lessens food intake and monitors his blood-sugar levels. He also walks in the morning but is careful not to push himself past his limits.

These maintenance steps are all the more important because Guillermo has also had two strokes and a blockage in an artery of his heart. He takes medication for these conditions in addition to receiving regular check-ups and free medication through the Unbound-CCI program.

“God is with me because I’m still alive,” he said. “We can still live well despite having diabetes. The love coming from our family is also good medicine for us in addition to prayers for the good health of yourself and others.”