by Kenneth Ladigohon (ABS-CBN Iloilo)

"Sons are a heritage from the LORD, children a reward from him."

- - Psalm 127:3

Children are considered precious, a source of inspiration, a joy and delight to every family. However, when cancer affects a family member, it brings depression, stress and sometimes confusion.

Freelance artist Tomas Leonor thought of an idea to help children stricken with cancer- an avid walker, he thought that his hundreds, thousands and even millions of steps could bring light and life to cancer patients especially the little ones. Whatever amount he would raise would go directly to the Tawid Pangkalusugan program of the Philippine Children's Medical Center.

For this year, he started his walk from Allen, Northern Samar. After 42 days, he was able to cross and walk through major streets and cities of seven provinces in Visayas. He was able to walk a total of 970 kilometers- a journey that took a total of 2,257,000 steps so far.

Last May 17, hundreds of policemen, military and students gathered at the Iloilo Provincial Capitol grounds for STEP JUAN - ILOILO. Police Regional Office 6 Director Police Chief Supt. Cipriano Querol Jr. led his men from Iloilo City Police Office for the walk. After his courtesy call with Governor Arthur Defensor, Tomas led the walk from Iloilo City to Boracay Island, Aklan. The Philippine National Police regional director has ordered his cops to join Tomas as he passes by their respective towns and cities.

Tomas is hoping to arrive in Boracay on May 27.