The country’s Mr. Pure Energy, Gary Valenciano, is “doing very well” after undergoing a successful open-heart surgery, his wife, Angeli Pangilinan, announced on Sunday, May 6.
“As of today, May 6, at 7:30pm, Gary’s heart surgery was 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,” Angeli said.
In an official statement written by Gary himself on the eve of his surgery, the multi-awarded artist revealed how he suddenly “felt a sensation [he had] never felt before” after his dance performance with his son, Gabriel, at his 35th-anniversary concert last month.
“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,” Gary 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,” he added.
The 53-year-old-singer who has been diagnosed type 1 diabetes said he went to see a doctor and found out that his heart and all its blood vessels are in miraculously excellent condition, except for one.
“The tough news? The one exception—the main valve, my left anterior descending artery (LAD) is 95 percent blocked and now has very thin walls, because of diabetes,” he noted.
Gary then apologized to his ASAP, Your Face Sounds Familiar, and Showtime families and fans, and all the companies and organizations he is scheduled to do shows for as he needs to excuse himself from all these commitments until he fully recovers from the surgery.
“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. Let’s not worry, OK? Let’s just be prayerful,” he said.
According to Gary, he immediately issued the details of his condition to prevent gossip and speculation 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,” Gary stressed.
“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 added.
The singer, who inspired millions of fans all over the world, also sent a message to those who may be undergoing the same situation with their hearts, both physically and emotionally: “‘And I will give you a new heart, and I will put a new spirit in you. I will take out your stony, stubborn heart and give you a tender, responsive heart.’ Ezekiel 36:26.”