A father is mourning the loss of his partner just two months after she gave birth to their twin boys. Jan Carlo Ibardaloza and Mommy Christina had welcomed their sons, Azaiah and Azriel, after navigating a challenging pregnancy, but their joy was cut short when Christina passed away from postpartum cardiomyopathy.
“Naging maselan ‘yung pagbubuntis niya, palagi siyang pagod,” Ibardaloza shared, recalling how Christina’s pregnancy required constant medical attention. During her second trimester, doctors discovered her cervix was beginning to open prematurely, threatening a miscarriage. To prevent this, Christina underwent a cervix surgery in December 2023.
Despite the successful operation, Christina remained on strict bed rest to ensure the safety of their babies. Her pregnancy was further complicated by pre-eclampsia, causing high blood pressure and severe swelling. Ibardaloza, however, remained hopeful, encouraging his partner through the difficult journey.
“Pinapalakas ko lang loob niya,” he said in The Philippine STAR report, recalling the moments of support and care they shared before their sons were born on May 18, 2024.
After the birth, Christina began experiencing shortness of breath. Though initially undiagnosed, doctors eventually discovered that she had an enlarged heart. Medications seemed to help her condition, and by her last checkup in June 2024, she appeared to be recovering well.
But on July 24, 2024, just one day after showing significant improvement, Christina collapsed unexpectedly at home. Despite Ibardaloza’s frantic efforts to rush her to the hospital amidst a typhoon, she did not survive. The doctors were unable to revive her.
“Hindi ako naniniwala kasi ang galing niya na eh. Mahirap tanggapin,” Ibardaloza said, still in shock from the sudden loss.
Now, Ibardaloza is left to care for their twins with the support of Christina’s family. Reflecting on the love and dedication Christina had for their children, he emotionally shared, “Sobrang mahal na mahal kayo ni mommy n’yo… hands-on mom siya.”