MANILA, Philippines — Kapamilya singer Gary Valenciano underwent a successful emergency open-heart surgery, his management company Manila Genesis Entertainment and Management Inc. posted on its Facebook account.
In a statement before the surgery, "Mr. Pure Energy" said he started to feel a sensation he had never felt before after his performance with his son Gabriel to celebrate his 35th anniversary.
“Two weeks ago, I celebrated my 35th anniversary in entertainment with a dance performance with my son, Gabriel, and a beloved team that’s second family to me. To some, it may have looked like routine movements for my songs from yesteryear, but that performance is one I won’t ever forget. My life from that point would never be the same,” Gary V wrote.
“After that dance, I felt a sensation I’d never felt before - not even during the times I would push myself, riding my mountain bike on the trails for extended periods of time - I felt tightness and pain in my chest. Upon consulting my doctor, he advised me to go through tests immediately. I want to share the results of my tests with you,” he added.
The singer said the good news is that his doctors are amazed that he has a strong heart, but the tough news is that his heart's main valve is 95 percent blocked.
“Friends - the good news? 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. The tough news? The one exception - the main valve, my left anterior descending artery (LAD) is 95% blocked and now has very thin walls, because of diabetes," he explained.
He also apologized to his fans and colleagues in the industry as he has to take time off to fully recover from the bypass surgery.
“I now lie here on a hospital bed because I need a bypass immediately. I apologize to my 'ASAP,' 'Your Face Sounds Familiar,' and 'Showtime' families and fans, the companies and organizations I am scheduled to do shows for; the students from various universities I am so excited to meet... I was especially looking forward to 'Unstoppable,' Darren Espanto’s concert. I need to excuse myself from all these commitments until I fully recover from the bypass surgery.”
He also said that he shared his conditions publicly to prevent gossip speculations that may cause worry and concern.
“Do not worry please, only pray - I have an expert team of gifted doctors, some of them have taken great care of me for many, many years now. I believe in my God who restores; my God who heals, and rescues, my God who is my strength... and my God who gives each of us a thousand 2nd chances.”
He also hopes to be back on the stage as soon as possible to continue providing entertainment.
“I know one day soon i will give my all on that stage again, perhaps in my spirit, even stronger than ever before. 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.”
According to his wife Angeli Pangilinan-Valenciano, Gary’s heart surgery has been successful.
“Paolo, Gab, Kiana and I visited him at the coronary recovery room and doctors have said he is doing very well. In behalf of our family, I request for prayers for my husband’s speedy recovery,” said Angeli.