My name is Regina, and I am a final-year chiropractic student at IMU University. Before beginning my journey in chiropractic, I was actively involved in discus throwing and experienced several injuries along the way. Through those challenges, I came to understand what it feels like to live with pain and the helplessness and frustration that often accompany it. That personal experience became one of the key reasons I am deeply passionate about providing chiropractic care, especially to those who may not have the means to access it.

I was also incredibly blessed to receive a full scholarship from IMU for my chiropractic studies. Having received so generously, I carry a strong sense of responsibility to give back to the community. I have been greatly blessed, and in return, I hope to serve others in ways that meaningfully improve their quality of life.

Serving in the Philippines has long been a dream of mine. I first heard about this mission in 2019, nearly seven years ago. Listening to the stories shared by seniors and lecturers who had participated in previous missions deeply inspired me. From that moment, I quietly hoped that one day I would have the opportunity to be part of this meaningful work.

Last year, that hope became reality when I was given my first opportunity to serve in the Philippines. Now, in February 2026, I was privileged to return once again. Words cannot fully express how grateful I am to be entrusted with this opportunity.

This journey has taught me many things, but most importantly, it has taught me humility and the importance of loving people wholeheartedly, regardless of their background. It has also strengthened my patience and reminded me to be quick to listen and slow to speak. Through intentional listening, I have learned that understanding a person’s story often provides valuable insight into their condition. Sometimes, the first step toward healing is simply helping someone feel truly heard.

During this mission, 282 lives were entrusted to my care. That number is far more than a statistic. It represents 282 individuals, each with their own story, struggles, and hopes. It was a true privilege not only to serve them, but also to share even brief moments of conversation and connection. Witnessing many of them improve and experience relief was deeply meaningful.

One of the most memorable moments took place in Camarines Sur (CamSur). From a distance, I noticed an elderly woman slowly making her way toward my treatment table with a noticeable limp. Step by step, she approached. After taking her history, I learned that she was 70 years old and suffering from bilateral knee pain that significantly affected her walking.

On assessment, both of her knees were swollen and her range of motion was severely limited. She was unable to fully extend her leg. After consulting with my supervisor, I proceeded with appropriate care and taught her some gentle stretching exercises. I was initially concerned about whether she would be able to perform them comfortably given her age and condition.

After the session, I asked her to walk and share how she felt. The moment her foot touched the ground, her facial expression transformed. There was unmistakable joy on her face. When I asked how she felt, she shared that she could now walk more freely and even attempted small jumps, something she had not been able to do before. She expressed deep gratitude, and the moment was profoundly moving to witness. By the end of the session, she was able to fully extend her leg and had regained full range of motion.

Experiences like this remind me that chiropractic care is not merely about relieving discomfort. It is about restoring function, renewing hope, and serving people with compassion.

I am continually reminded that we are simply stewards of the skills and opportunities entrusted to us, and it is a privilege to use them in service of others.

Selamat po, Philippines. I hope to return again.

Written by Regina Yeo Man Xin