Gary Valenciano (File photo from Philippine Daily Inquirer)
Singer Gary Valenciano underwent a successful bypass surgery earlier on Sunday, May 6, after tests weeks ago showed that one of the music artist’s coronary arteries was “95 percent blocked” and had very thin walls “because of diabetes.”
“As of today, May 6, at 7:30 p.m, Gary’s heart surgery was successful… He’s doing very well,” Valenciano’s wife, Angeli Pangilinan said in a text message. “In behalf of our family, I request for prayers for my husband’s speedy recovery.”
Valenciano, 53, said he first felt that something was wrong two weeks ago, after a dance performance with his son Gab.
“After that dance, I felt a sensation I had never felt before – not even during the times I would push myself, [like] riding my mountain bike on the trails for extended periods of time. I felt tightness and pain in my chest,” Valenciano wrote in a message relayed by Pangilinan.
Valenciano, who has been living with Type 1 diabetes, immediately consulted a doctor and underwent tests. He learned that his heart’s blood vessels were in fine condition, save for the left anterior descending artery.
“I have a good, strong heart. The doctors are amazed. My heart and all its blood vessels, with the exception of one, are miraculously in excellent condition. Surprising after 39 years of Type 1 Diabetes,” he related.
“The tough news. The one exception – the main valve, my left anterior descending artery is 95 percent blocked and now has very thin walls, because of diabetes,” Valenciano added.
He said he wanted to share with people the details about his condition, so as to “prevent gossip and speculation” that might cause “worry and concern.”
Valenciano apologized to those he had prior show biz commitments with and assured fans that he would be “recuperating, getting better and building up my strength.”
“I know one day soon I will give my all on that stage again, perhaps in my spirit, even stronger than ever before,” he said. “I believe this will be a story to tell people, and yes, it will be another one of God’s amazing faithful, merciful, gracious, and good ways. Let’s not worry, OK? Let’s just be prayerful.” /atm