ARTURO ZUÑIGA
GOD IS SO GOOD!
In late November 2024, our daughter Michelle called to ask if she and her partner, Kevin, could invite us—“parents,” as they fondly call us these days—to dinner at my favorite Japanese restaurant. We gladly said yes, though we were quite curious about the sudden invitation.
They fetched us early that evening, and as we settled into the restaurant, we sensed their excitement. After ordering our usual favorites, Michelle slowly spoke, her face glowing with delight:
“Mom, Pops… I’m pregnant.”
Then she added, almost breathless, “And one more thing—you’ll be having twin boys, apos (grandchildren), and they’re identical!”
We were instantly teary-eyed, overwhelmed with joy and excitement for Michelle and Kevin. The news was completely unexpected, and we all felt profoundly blessed by the Lord.
Deep in my wife, Elvie’s heart and mine, we knew this was one of God’s wondrous miracles. Four years earlier, we had sat across from Michelle as she tearfully told us she had been diagnosed with stage-three breast cancer in her left breast. She explained that she had kept her condition from us after a series of misdiagnoses by a dismissive doctor who repeatedly assured her there was nothing to worry about—until the cancer progressed to its advanced stage.
Our immediate reaction, together with our other daughter Joanna, was to seek the best oncologist and surgeon and prepare for the possibility of a mastectomy. Joanna readily offered to help shoulder the initial financial burden, knowing how substantial it would be. By God’s grace, our Couples for Christ (CFC) community led us to an excellent oncologist, Dr. Jun Garcia, who had once been part of our household. An appointment was quickly arranged.
After thorough diagnostic tests, a chemotherapy regimen was initiated to reduce the tumor before surgery. A genetic test—recommended by Elvie’s brother, a veterinarian—was also pursued, despite its high cost and limited local availability. Blood and biopsy samples were sent to Greece, and the results helped determine the most effective chemotherapy medications. After a year of chemo and radiation treatments, our prayers were answered: Michelle was declared cancer-free. She was prescribed Tamoxifen as a maintenance drug to reduce the risk of recurrence—though it also effectively inhibits pregnancy.
Kevin and Michelle had met at work at the Philippine Stock Exchange and had been together for about four years before her diagnosis. Kevin’s devotion during Michelle’s most difficult season was deeply moving. He chose to live with her so he could care for her closely throughout her treatment. Nearly three years after her recovery, the miracle pregnancy was announced—against all odds. Truly, the Lord knew the desires of their hearts. Both Kevin and Michelle love children and have always been devoted dog lovers as well.
We, too, have always loved children. For 37 years, we served in the CFC community, particularly in Kids for Christ, a family ministry. This led us to help establish Kids for Christ Clubs in the Ateneo University and Miriam College grade schools—reaching not only underprivileged children in mission areas but also privileged ones, believing that compassion for the poor can be nurtured early in life.
For 14 years, we also served in Cornerstone, a five-month program during the regular school year initiated by Ateneo in partnership with CFC. The program tutors Grade 2 and 3 public school children who still cannot read, using a holistic approach that includes values formation for both children and parents.
Now, as we slow down, we hope to inspire others to continue this vital work with children—guided by the Holy Spirit. In the meantime, the Lord has gifted our lives with darling apos to love, care for, and nurture—much like my own childhood memories of being pampered by a playful lolo and a loving lola in the province. We are endlessly grateful for His goodness.
Michelle’s due date was early June, and the months leading up to it were filled with excitement—for the would-be parents, grandparents, and Aunt Joanna, who was to be the primary baptismal “ninang” (sponsor). Another joyful surprise came when Michelle shared her engagement ring in our family Viber group, setting off a cascade of happy events and preparations. An April wedding was planned—Michelle proudly carrying a “double” belly. Those months were filled with baby showers, family gatherings, meals together, mall outings, Masses, and trips with Kevin’s family.
The wedding was a joyful celebration. As Kevin and Michelle exchanged vows with Michelle’s seven-month pregnancy on full display, everyone present felt the weight of their journey and the abundance of miracles that brought them there.
On June 9, 2025, Michelle delivered via cesarean section. As we waited anxiously, the first update arrived in our family Viber group—a photo from the operating room showing the twin babies with their proud parents. We were told to wait a bit longer for Michelle’s recovery before she and the babies would be brought to the room. The minutes felt like eternity.
When the door finally opened and an exhausted but radiant mommy was wheeled in—followed by the babies in their carriage—there were no words. Only pure joy and deep gratitude. Over and over, we whispered, “thank You, Lord.” The babies were healthy, beautiful, and angelic—truly gifts sent from God.
As they grew so quickly, we didn’t want to miss a thing. We visit them often in their home, not far from ours. The reality of sleep deprivation slowly set in amid catnaps, laughter, and constant thanksgiving. Holding their tiny hands, touching their little toes, meeting their angelic stares and joyful smiles, hearing their baby sounds and delighted squeals—it is pure joy, doubled.
Now, as brand-new grandparents, Elvie and I reflect on our lives and feel we have nearly come full circle. From the old, new life has emerged. We feel complete, yet still open to new adventures, plans, and aspirations—all for them and their future, which we pray to witness for many years to come.
Just as we named our daughters Joanna and Michelle—our own gifts from God—Kevin and Michelle named their sons Emmanuel Lucas and Theodore Noah. We will watch them grow with awe and wonder, trusting in the Lord’s beautiful plan for them, guided by their loving parents.
God is truly so good.
