How Mel Gibson's son is helping sick Pinoy kids

MANILA, Philippines - As part of his job as a board member of Mending Kids International, Will Gibson attends events to raise funds for the organization's mission to provide life-saving surgery for impoverished children all over the world.

An associate producer in Hollywood and the son of actor Mel Gibson, he said he feels the need to serve.

 

"All over the world we're helping kids in need, who otherwise won't be getting the life-saving surgeries that they require in order to live," he said."For those of us who are blessed enough to have been put in such a fortunate spot as I am and the rest of us here are, we have an opportunity and obligation to help others."

 

Mending Kids recently helped 5-year-old Henrik Tan of Cebu who was born with a congenital heart disease. Tan is just one of many children who received life-saving help.

Last year, Filipina Merylou Barriga, who was born with a facial cleft, returned to the US to personally thank those who helped her get corrective surgery.

 

The organization also recently started a campaign for Filipino children that will raise funds for the prevention of premature blindness and for children with heart conditions.

Superstar Mel Gibson also supports Mending Kids International's projects.

 

Children in the US in need of surgery can also apply for assistance (referchild@mendingkids.org).

Those in the Philippines can apply through the Philippine Airlines Foundation (menchu_sarmiento@pal.com.ph).

This November, Mending Kids will hold one of its biggest annual fundraisers featuring Hollywood star supporters