Kaye Abad, the beloved Filipino actress known for her iconic role in the youth series Tabing Ilog, recently bared her soul in an emotional interview about her ongoing battle with breast cancer. While she has been declared cancer-free, the journey is far from over. In her own words, survivorship comes with a different kind of fear—one that she now faces with faith, family, and a renewed sense of purpose.
Kaye Abad's Emotional Journey
In an exclusive interview featured by ABS-CBN, Kaye Abad spoke candidly about the realities of living after a cancer diagnosis. She admitted that contrary to what many believe, being declared a survivor does not erase the anxiety. Instead, it amplifies it. She explained that regular scans every few months serve as constant reminders that the disease could return at any time.
“When they declare you a survivor, it feels like it's over, that it's gone, but the journey doesn't end there. Actually, now I feel more scared than before,” she shared. Her words struck a chord with many who have faced similar battles, highlighting the often overlooked emotional toll of cancer survivorship.
Her Children as Motivation
For Kaye, the thought of leaving her two young sons is what kept her fighting. She admitted that there were moments during treatment when she would watch her children perform at school and feel a wave of sadness, thinking about the possibility of not being there for future milestones. But she quickly dismissed those thoughts, reminding herself that giving up was never an option.
“I still want to see my kids grow. I want to be there,” she said. Her sons became her greatest motivation, pushing her through the toughest stages of chemotherapy and radiation. The actress emphasized that her desire to witness her children's lives unfold gave her the strength to endure the pain and uncertainty.
Faith and Prayer
Prayer played a central role in Kaye's healing process. She recalled often retreating to the bathroom—the only place where she could be alone—to cry out to God. Her prayers were simple yet profound: “Please, I'm very happy with my life right now. I'm very content. Please don't take me away. I want to see my kids grow.”
Despite her pleas, Kaye also surrendered to whatever God's plan might be. “If I don't make it, I will accept if that's His plan for my life. But I wanted to live, so I will do my part.” This balance of hope and acceptance is a testament to the depth of her faith. She also relied on her devotion to St. Rita, Santo Niño, and Padre Pio, which deepened during her illness. “I have always been religious, but now I am even more so. I truly believe He is there,” she said.
One of the most poignant moments in her story was when a doctor informed her that surgery was no longer possible because the cancer had spread to her liver and underarm. Initially devastated, she suddenly felt a sense of peace, as if a divine presence whispered, “Don't worry, I'm here. I will take care of you.” That moment strengthened her resolve to fight despite the odds.
Career Highlights and Background
Before her cancer battle, Kaye Abad had already established herself as a prominent figure in the Philippine entertainment industry. She rose to fame for her definitive portrayal of Epifania 'Eds' Delos Santos in the classic youth drama Tabing Ilog, a show that defined a generation of Filipino teens. Her performance earned her widespread critical acclaim and opened doors to major television serials such as Annaliza and Nang Ngumiti Ang Langit.
She later transitioned into hosting and movies, but her heart remained with drama. In recent years, she has balanced her career with family life. She is married to Paul Jake Castillo, an entertainment personality and corporate entrepreneur. The couple has two sons, whom Kaye describes as her greatest treasures. Her Instagram account often features family moments, showcasing a life filled with love and laughter.
Recently, Kaye triggered a wave of nostalgia among fans by posting a vintage photo of herself with fellow iconic former teen stars. Instead of a serious caption, she humorously teased that her eyes were already fixed on her future husband, Paul Jake Castillo, during the shoot. Paul Jake responded with an equally amusing comment, delighting their online community. It was a lighthearted moment that reminded everyone of the joy Kaye brings to others, even amid personal struggles.
The Reality of Cancer Survivorship
Medical experts note that the fear of recurrence is a common experience among cancer survivors. For Kaye, this fear is compounded by the fact that dormant cancer cells may remain in the body, awaiting activation. She undergoes regular imaging and blood tests to monitor any changes. While these check-ups provide a sense of control, they also induce anxiety waiting for results.
In her interview, she emphasized that the emotional battle does not end with the last treatment. Survivors often face lingering physical side effects, financial strain, and a changed perspective on life. Kaye's openness about her journey has helped destigmatize these discussions, encouraging others to share their own experiences.
Her story also highlights the importance of a strong support system. Beyond her family, she credits her faith community and friends for standing by her. She encourages others facing similar battles to lean on their loved ones and not be afraid to ask for help.
Advice to Others
For those currently fighting cancer, Kaye offers a message of hope: “Just trust the Lord. Don't question whatever His plan is. Just trust Him. He won't give you something you cannot handle.” She added that she was surprised by the courage she found during treatment. “He gave me the strength to fight,” she said.
Kaye's journey is a powerful reminder that even the strongest individuals can feel vulnerable. By sharing her story, she has become an inspiration to many who are navigating their own health battles. Her transparency about the highs and lows of survivorship helps others feel less alone.
Beyond cancer, Kaye continues to pursue her passions. She is involved in various charitable works, focusing on cancer awareness and support for patients. She also hosts events and makes special appearances, bringing her infectious positivity to every room she enters. Her resilience serves as a beacon of light, proving that faith and family can overcome even the darkest moments.
Source: MSN News