MANILA, Philippines – Popular Manila-based writer, editor and columnist, Jessica Zafra has been hospitalized since Monday. She was found at the staircase of her apartment, in a “disoriented” state.
According to a post made on Facebook by Joel Pablo Salud, Editor-in-chief at Philippines Graphic and friend of Jessica, the writer had a fever for several days before she was found “conscious but disoriented” in her house. Salud posted the comment on Tuesday, after having been messaged by industry colleague and fellow-writer, Ramon Sunico.
Pablo explained that Zafra: “did not suffer a stroke, but was dehydrated, which resulted in an electrolyte imbalance. CT and MRI scans show some inflammation of the brain, which may be due to an infection. She is now undergoing neurological observation.”
Jessica’s sister Cheryl is said to be her companion at the hospital.
Pablo likewise appealed to readers and netizens alike for help with the hospitalization costs of Zafra.
“As is the case with almost all artists who work freelance, Jessica does not have health insurance,” Joel explained.
“Those who would like to make a donation for Jessica’s hospitalization and medical care can deposit directly to Cookie’s Security Bank account, which is under the name of Cheryl Ann Grace Z. de Jesus,” he elaborated.
Zafra, who is best know for her sharp wit and humour, is the author of the Twisted series of books; a collection of her essays as columnist for Today(now the Manila Standard Today), as well as those which she wrote for the magazine, Flip. Music aficionados may also remember that Zafra managed the Eraserheads back in the ’90’s.