THANK YOU SO MUCH
A Dream Come True...

by
Helen Grace C. Roasa, M.D.
Miss Bethany 2003
June 5, 2003

Dreams...believe...and have faith to make it happen. As a "Bethany baby" who played and grew up in its premises, I dreamt that one day I will be a part of the hospital, to help effect a change and be God's instrument in bringing the message of salvation of Jesus Christ to people who are sick.

Since I joined the staff last 1994, we had our First Fund Raising Project for the construction of the Hospital Chapel, year 1998 thru the Thanks God I'm Free (TGIF) Concert "Heavenly Derams" with hospital employees as the featured artists. This was also a leap of faith, the funds were used to help Bethany construct a Chapel beside the ICU.

Now when I was chosen by the Department of the OB-NICU to represent them for Miss Bethany, I conceded for a good cause, a fund campaign for a medical equipment. When I knew that the winner will get 50% of the prize, I thought of a project that will complement the donation grant of the Cetranl Union Church of Hawaii for the Renovation of the Nursery (now the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit) which is the Renovationalso of the Delivery/Labor Room Complex and possible if with extra funds, the Operating Room Complex. I did not confine myself in raising funds only here in Tacloban, because I knew I had a big goal to reach, the amount of P400,000.00. So I prayed, "God, please open the windows of heaven to bless Bethany thru my candidacy and touch the hearts of the people I ask for help." To my surprise, I thank all of you my dear relatives and friends for making these projects for "Bethany a REALTY - your generous support and your excitement that I was part of it, made the celebration a memorable one. I thought I was just dreaming, I was only interested in raising funds but when finally I was declared "Miss Bethany" and the crown was on my head, it was an unforgettable experience. (Queen Helen the 1st of Bethany, the teased...hahaha!) More so, I thank God for His faithfulness in my life, for His promises are true "NOTHING IS IMPOSSIBLE WITH GOD."

He truly heard my prayers to fulfill the projecs of Bethany. Well, I know there are still more work to be done, many facilities need to be upgraded (like xrays and laboratory facilities) the Operating Room, the physical set-up of the lobby and other private rooms but I believe that someday, God will provide the hospital the means to fulfill and continue its mission and upgrade the facilities/services for quality health care.

To all of you who have helped me wear this crown as Miss Bethany, I share the jewels of friendship and close family ties with you, for without your love, support and help, this will not come to pass.

You are God's blessings to me and I share this honor with all of you. Once more, thank youvery much. May God bless your generosity as you have blessed others.

To God be the Glory and praise.