Issue No. 67 - November to December 2011 - DOH

TRIBUTEGoodbye,NONG MENDOZAJanuary 29, 1961 - November 11, 2011TOP: Nong Mendoza's story in HEALTHbeat July-October2010 issue. LEFT: Nong doing a Boy Abunda look-alike inthe Celebrity Christmas Party of the National Center forHealth Promotion last year.As we bid farewell to 2011, we alsosay goodbye to FEDELINO “Nong” MENDOZA– Information Officer III of the Departmentof Health’s National Center for HealthPromotion, graphic artist, HEALTHbeatstaff who used to do artworks and coverdesigns, and most especially, a dear friend.Nong lost his more than twoyears battle with lung cancer after he wasdiagnosed at Stage 4 in September 2009.He shared his personal health story inHEALTHbeat July-October 2010 issue, thefirst time this magazine went into full color.In his story entitled "BattlingLung Cancer," Nong narrated his ordealwith the disease, not only in dealing withthe physical pain but also in experiencing agamut of medical and financial difficulties.He said, "with a disease like lung cancer, itis very important that people around youand the institutions behind you are able toprovide you with the best care and supportphysically, emotionally and financially."Henry Ward Beecher, a Protestantclergyman and reformer, said, "So we fallasleep in Jesus. We have played long enoughat the games of life, and at last we feel theapproach of death. We are tired out, and welay our head back on the bosom of Christ andquietly fall asleep."Nong was survived by his wife,Bambi, and two kids, Justin and Zen Zen. Youwill surely be missed, Nong! Rest in peace.32 HEALTHbeat I November - December 2011