Just recently, a Filipina domestic helper was fired from work because she has cancer. As the news surfaced online, a lot of people sympathized on her situation which resulted in a crowdfunding campaign that aims to finance her medical treatment.
The target was initially HK$400,000 but it is said that it already surfaced the target amount.
Filipina domestic helper identified as Baby Jane Allas has diagnosed with stage three cervical cancer and following the sad news was her dismissal from work. She was left without healthcare benefits since January, says Hong Kong Free Press.
According to the Hong Kong law, foreign domestic workers who were dismissed from their work should exit the country within two weeks after their termination. As for Allas, she was able to extend her stay due to labor claim hearing.
As of Monday, the campaign already reached HK$ 715,572, surpassing the previous HK$400,000 target.
“We have been overwhelmed by the generous support from the community,” says Jessica Cutrera of GoGetMeFunding campaign.
“Now that we have funds to start to provide her with the medical care she needs, and support from the medical community, Baby Jane is focused on her health care. We are working on getting her children passports so they can come [to] visit.”
Cutrera said that Allas already have a private oncologist and a primary care doctor that helps secure her pro bono care.
“It’s heartwarming for her to see how many people are moved by her story and who have spoken out against the terrible treatment she has endured. It’s also really helped give her the strength to fight,” Cutrera said.
Cutrera employs the sister of Allas and currently houses Allas herself. Cutrera is an American lawyer.
