For most people, walking is a simple daily routine. But for Dr. Jose Miguel “Migz” Albornoz, 34, it was more than just movement—it was a source of joy and freedom. “I love walking. I would walk from here to anywhere,” he recalls. “But I couldn’t do it anymore.”

His life changed abruptly when he began experiencing imbalance, fatigue, and weakness—symptoms he initially brushed off while preparing for his medical board exams. What followed was a long journey of uncertainty, countless tests, and a diagnosis that would reshape his life both as a physician and as a patient: Multiple Sclerosis (MS).

The First Signs of Multiple Sclerosis

It all started in June 2016. “I just woke up one day and felt like my feet weren’t right. When I stepped, I felt off balance,” he shares. What he initially thought was fatigue or stress quickly progressed.

• Walking long distances became impossible.

• Going to work felt exhausting.

• Even climbing stairs became overwhelming.

Months later, additional symptoms appeared: “That included incontinence of my bladder and bowel,” he says.

After MRIs and a series of neurological tests, the diagnosis was confirmed: Multiple Sclerosis, a chronic autoimmune disease affecting the central nervous system, leading to:

• Fatigue and weakness

• Imbalance and difficulty walking

• Bladder and bowel incontinence

• Sensory disturbances

Early diagnosis and personalized treatment are critical to slowing disease progression and maintaining independence. St. Luke’s Medical Center offers specialized neurologists for MS, providing accurate diagnosis and individualized care plans.

Finding Expert Care at St. Luke’s

Dr. Migz’s journey led him to some of the Philippines’ leading neurologists for demyelinating diseases—Dra. (first name) Jokino and Dr. Ludwig F. Damian, both practicing at St. Luke’s Medical Center, widely recognized as one of the best hospitals in the Philippines for Multiple Sclerosis care.

Notably, he is the 6th Multiple Sclerosis patient managed and treated at St. Luke’s, reflecting the institution’s expanding experience in this rare neurological condition.

Even after undergoing established therapies—monoclonal antibodies and steroids—his condition continued to progress. That’s when he was introduced to hematopoietic  stem cell transplant (HSCT), a promising treatment for progressive MS.

HSCT is a medical procedure that uses a patient’s own stem cells to “reset” the immune system. In autoimmune conditions like Multiple Sclerosis, the goal is to stop the immune system from attacking the nervous system and potentially slow or halt disease progression. It is a highly specialized treatment performed only in selected centers with advanced Bone Marrow Transplant (BMT) capabilities.

He was then referred to Dr. Francisco Lopez, hematologist and medical oncologist, and St. Luke’s Global City Head of Blood and Marrow Transplant (BMT). 

“He didn’t promise outcomes, but he gave me hope,” Dr. Migz says. “Hope that I could manage my illness better.”

Why St. Luke’s is the Top Choice for MS Patients

At St. Luke’s, patients benefit from:

Advanced MS Treatments in the Philippines

• Monoclonal antibody therapy

• HSCT for Multiple Sclerosis for progressive cases

• Personalized treatment plans tailored to individual needs

Multidisciplinary Care Approach

• Collaboration between neurologists, BMT specialist, nutritionists, and rehabilitation specialists under one roof

• Holistic patient care for optimal recovery

World-Class Technology and Facilities

• Cutting-edge diagnostics, including MRI and lab tests
  Specialized equipment for physical therapy and rehabilitation

Patient-Centered and Compassionate Care

• Personalized guidance from physicians and allied health professionals

• Emotional and motivational support throughout treatment and recovery

A Birthday He Will Never Forget

On March 18, 2025—his birthday—Dr. Migz was admitted to St. Luke’s Global City for stem cell therapy. The staff surprised him with a birthday song, making him feel welcomed and cared for from day one.

“They made my stay as comfortable as possible. It was a multidisciplinary team—internal medicine, hematology, oncology, infectious disease, allied health. Everyone was kind and explained everything,” he says.

Despite being a doctor himself, Dr. Migz asked the team to treat him like any patient:

“Please don’t call me doc. I am a patient right now.”

This personalized, patient-first approach is what sets St. Luke’s Medical Center apart. “Even the nutritionist explained my diet in detail. They took the time—and that mattered,” he adds.

Recovery, Rehabilitation, and Rebuilding Strength

Stem cell therapy is intensive and involves chemotherapy, which causes fatigue and weakness. But with daily guidance from Dr. Lopez and the support of his family, friends, and partner, Dr. Migz gradually regained strength.

• Motor function improved

• Incontinence symptoms lessened

• Balance and mobility enhanced

“Before treatment, I couldn’t walk a foot without help. Now, I’m doing physical therapy, and my standing balance is improving,” he shares.

St. Luke’s offers comprehensive rehabilitation programs for MS patients:

• Physical therapy to restore mobility and balance

• Occupational therapy to regain independence in daily living

• Personalized nutrition and lifestyle guidance

• Emotional and psychosocial support

This holistic approach combines cutting-edge medical expertise, rehabilitation, and continuous encouragement, helping patients like Dr. Migz reclaim their quality of life.

The St. Luke’s Difference

“St. Luke’s has the best technology in the Philippines and a team of specialized physicians who can meet your needs,” Dr. Migz says.

From security guards to nurses, medical technologists, residents, fellows, and attending physicians, every team member exemplifies the same culture of excellence:

“They don’t do it just because it has to be done—we do it because it’s the right thing to do and the best way to care for the patient,” he commented.

With specialized neurologists, stem cell therapy, advanced rehabilitation, and a multidisciplinary team, St. Luke’s Medical Center is recognized as one of the top hospitals in the Philippines for Multiple Sclerosis treatment.

When asked if he would have chosen another hospital, Dr. Migz’s answer was simple:
  “I think I would have still gone to St. Luke’s.”

Take the First Step Toward MS Recovery

Today, Dr. Migz continues his journey toward better health with the support of St. Luke’s neurologists, BMT services, and world-class rehabilitation services. His story is a powerful reminder that Multiple Sclerosis is life-changing—but it doesn’t have to be life-defining.

If you or a loved one is searching for the best hospital in the Philippines for Multiple Sclerosis care, St. Luke’s Medical Center offers:

• Comprehensive MS treatment in the Philippines

• HSCT for Multiple Sclerosis

• Advanced diagnostics and multidisciplinary care

• Personalized rehabilitation programs

At St. Luke’s, we journey with you—nurturing hope, advancing medicine, and shaping a healthier future.

For more information, get in touch with our Product Information Hub at 0919-057-7744, 0998-534-2768, 0928-520-0239, or 0947-993-0471 (call), 0919-160-7744 (text), or email productinfo@stlukes.com.ph.