Kris Aquino broke her silence yesterday, providing updates on her ongoing health struggles. She admitted that she had been quiet for some time as she struggled to accept her “new reality.”
Aquino revealed that she underwent a series of medical tests, including a PET (Positron Emission Tomography) scan, which is often done to rule out cancer. In her case, the scan followed a tiring chest CT scan, and her doctors also examined her nasal and upper cheek areas due to persistent headaches and a constant runny nose. The PET scan was conducted to check her breathing and sinus passages.
The next day, her gastroenterologist advised her to begin preparations for both an endoscopy and a colonoscopy. “The abdominal area, specifically my colon area, lit up,” Aquino shared, adding that despite usually being brave, she broke down in tears after her doctor left. Later, her mother’s oncologist, who had treated former President Cory Aquino for stage 4 colon cancer, visited her, which felt surreal for Kris.
Recalling her family history, Aquino noted that her mother, as well as her grandmother, both passed away from colon cancer. The hardest part, she said, was explaining her situation to her son, Bimby, who was sleeping on a small sofa in the room.
“Mama, until they do the biopsy, let’s trust God that you’re cancer-free,” Bimby comforted her. He added with a lighthearted remark, “Tito Noy (referring to Kris’ late brother, former President Noynoy Aquino) is probably enjoying peace and quiet in heaven, and I don’t think he’s excited to have a reunion with you just yet because you can talk nonstop.”
Fortunately, Kris shared the good news that after undergoing the procedures, her doctor informed her that she was cancer-free with “clear intestines and no visible signs of cancer.” Grateful for the prayers, Kris thanked everyone, emphasizing that God listens to what’s in their hearts.
However, Aquino revealed that she has been diagnosed with five, potentially six, autoimmune conditions. Among them, three are considered life-threatening and could damage her vital organs or blood vessels. She named the conditions Churg-Strauss, now known as EGPA (a rare form of vasculitis), systemic sclerosis (also called scleroderma), and lupus (SLE, or systemic lupus erythematosus). While her heart is in good shape, she remains hypertensive.
Aquino stressed that those around her must take extra precautions, such as showering and wearing masks, given her zero immunity. A simple cough could lead to pneumonia and possible ICU confinement for her.
Despite the challenges, Kris remains determined. “BAWAL SUMUKO (No giving up). I need a goal, something for all of us to look forward to. #tuloyanglaban (the fight continues),” she declared.
In a final note to her fans, Kris shared exciting news: she will be returning with a new show set to launch before the year ends. While she kept the concept a secret, she hinted that the show would document her current life journey alongside her son, Bimby, her best friends, and her team of doctors.
Lastly, she asked for privacy on her rumored relationship with Dr. Michael Padlan, humorously stating, “Until my groom and I exchange vows, I’m choosing to keep my relationship private. Ibalato nyo na sa ‘kin yun (Please let me have that).”