It was around March 2024, when James Matthew Marter, senior consultant at CriticalRiver Philippines, was diagnosed with gallbladder stones and was advised to undergo surgery. What should have been a routine pre-surgery examination turned out to be something far more alarming.

James discovered his body was failing him – he was pre-diabetic, living with dangerously high cholesterol, fatty liver, and even his urinalysis painted a grim picture. This was the wake-up call for James.

The first thought that flashed through his mind was his family, their future, and their need for him to stay healthy and present. James realized that this meant more than just healing from a single surgery—it was a fight to reclaim his health, his life.

“I started changing my diet ever since I was diagnosed,” says James.

James got the support from his wife who became his partner in the battle. Following the surgery, James took up boxing, alongside other fitness programs that demanded his grit and focus.

“All of this I wouldn’t have conquered without the support from CriticalRiver. The extensive healthcare package ensures that I have support financially on all the medical examinations, consultations and during the actual procedure. CriticalRiver provided extensive leave credits that I can use to cover all my absences to guarantee that I won’t be having unpaid absences. And lastly, the work flexibility of being able to work from home makes sure that I would have ample time to recover and time to plan my workout days efficiently,” James said.

By August 2024, James’ transformation was undeniable. The once grim medical results now showed immense progress. He had lost weight from 73 kg to 58 kg.

James doesn’t just feel grateful—he feels empowered. CriticalRiver wasn’t just part of his journey; it helped redefine it. And for that, he stands with heartfelt gratitude, proof that with the right support, even life’s hardest challenges can be conquered.