Celebs recall their toughest trials in life

(First of two parts)

Since it’s Semana Santa, the show biz circus temporarily comes to a halt. Controversies and intrigues must be put on hold. Behave for the meantime, rumormongers.

In observance of Holy Monday, I asked some celebs about their biggest “kalbaryo” (trial) and how they survived it.

May your Holy Week reflections make your heart feel whole and your spirit less weak.

Martin Nievera

MARTIN NIEVERA: As much as I hate remembering it, I would have to say when I deeply disappointed the mother of Robin and Ram (ex-wife Pops Fernandez) by going astray. As much as I know these things really happen in life, I spent the rest of mine trying to convince her and everyone watching that I was worthy of redeeming myself.

Onstage and off, it was an uphill climb. But with God’s grace, together with the forgiving heart of Pops, I was given a second chance at friendship, as well as a second life onstage. I remain forever grateful for that.

Carla Abellana

CARLA ABELLANA: When I had to let go of my business franchise. It wasn’t good for my well-being already, and it only got tougher and tougher for me. I recovered because of the fact that the franchisor took over, and it gave me the comfort knowing they will continue to run it as experts in the industry. The business is in great hands.

Andrea Torres

ANDREA TORRES: When my youngest brother (who has Down Syndrome and slight autism) was diagnosed with multiple organ failure. It was so hard to see him in pain, and even harder that he couldn’t talk. I wanted to know what he was feeling so I could help him better.

The doctor already told us to “get ready.” He gave us two weeks. We were all devastated and so scared. But that was when I witnessed the power of prayers. One by one, the problems either improved or disappeared completely. Nothing is impossible with Him! My brother Kenneth is now back to normal. He’s happy and healthy.

Jed Madela

JED MADELA: My biggest “calvary” happened a couple of years ago when I developed major anxiety attacks. Big crowds and also being alone triggered them. It came to a point where I didn’t even want to sleep, for fear of not waking up. That continued for more than a year. I had to go to doctors and surround myself with people who helped me get back on track.

Mark Bautista

MARK BAUTISTA: When my dad got hospitalized and had a serious bypass surgery. It was a big challenge for the whole family financially and emotionally but, for some reason, we were able to rise from that whole ordeal. God has been so good.

(Conclusion tomorrow)