Jackie Lou Blanco shares details about Ricky Davao’s illness and how they found peace before he died

Jackie Lou Blanco opened up about the passing of her ex-husband Ricky Davao as she shared how they found peace amid the latter's battle with cancer.

In an interview with ABS-CBN News, the actress revealed that the late actor was diagnosed with stage 4 lymphoma in December. 

"We also kind of knew na baka the end is near but we never expect it this to be this soon," she said. 

According to Jackie Lou, Ricky was intubated and confined in the ICU but eventually showed signs of improvement.

“Things were looking better. He was transferred to a regular room, tinatanggal na 'yung tube,” she recalled. “After a while, after a couple of weeks, nagstart na yung treatment. Gumaganda, lumiliit 'yung tumor kaya nga lang, you know what cancer is, and it was also a delayed stage." 

Despite the challenges, she said their family made the most of their time together and even spent Christmas at the hospital.

'There was peace'

Jackie Lou admitted that her relationship with Ricky had its ups and downs. But in his final months, they were able to heal and find peace.

"Our relationship was a work in progress. I mean, in the beginning, parang hindi pa masyadong okay," she opened up. "When things got better, we were able to [celebrate] as a family, we were able to take a trip as a family. Things were really in a better place, and I am happy that it was in that place because at least naging maayos before he passed. I think that's what I am really thankful for."

When Ricky was still in the ICU and their family feared the worst, Jackie Lou found the strength to speak from her heart. 

"When he was in the ICU, before kasi siya nauwi sa bahay, parang there was a scare, parang we thought na that was it na during that time. We all said our piece na. I was able to tell him na 'You know, I am here, I'm here with the kids [and] we're praying for you,'" she recalled.

"I said 'Whatever happens between us, I pray that you are forgiving me kasi ako rin naman I forgive you,' and nasabi ko 'Don't worry, I'll take care of the kids,'" the local star added.

Jackie Lou also recalled telling Ricky that they'll be fine. "I reassured him na magiging okay kami and huwag siyang matakot because Jesus is waiting him in heaven where there is no more pain. So, I have been blessed to be able to have that opportunity and for him to have passed with so much love around him."

Ricky and Jackie Lou got  married in 1989 and had three children. They got separated in 2011.

Ricky passed away on May 2. He was 63.