The actress noted that rather than giving joy, it turned out to be something that gave her one instead.
In a post on her Instagram account, Kapamilya star Karina Bautista shared what she chose to do to celebrate her birthday this year.
She shared that she was pondering at first on what to do, noting that she also wants share her blessings to others.
“I found myself asking how I wanted to celebrate my birthday… and all I could think about was how much the Lord has blessed me this year In my own little way, I just wanted to give back and share even a small piece of that blessing.”
Hence, she chose to celebrate it with Bahay Aruga, a free halfway house for pediatric cancer patients.
“I came there hoping to bring a little joy, even just for a day… but somehow, it became the other way around,” she recalled her visit. “They surprised me with handwritten letters, paintings, and even a bouquet of handmade flowers. I didn’t expect it at all. My heart felt so full.”
Karina also noted that she came there thinking that she would be the one helping them, but what happened was these kids were the ones who gave her strength through their faith, kindness, and the way they continue to smile despite everything they’re going through.
She then thanked everyone who helped make the vksit possible, as well as those who shared their support and donations. “If you’d like to help, you can also visit, support their cafes, or purchase their artwork,” Bautista added.
To end, “This was the kind of birthday I prayed for. I wouldn’t have celebrated it any other way. Thank you, Lord, for a day filled with so much love.”