The Author

Ulysses Labilles, DMD, Ph.D

In my 30 years of combined academic and work experience, I built a career based on quality, professionalism, integrity, and discretion—providing technical and professional coordination and leadership in the execution of day-to-day program/project activities.  I have proven track records of success in creative and innovative approaches to strategic planning, strategy development, and problem-solving.  I have the ability to work independently with good judgment, excellent interpersonal skills, particularly the ability to work effectively with a diverse group of individuals to stimulate collaboration between community partners on outreach activities for program(s) or project(s).

In this inspiring memoir, Dr. Ulysses Labilles—an epidemiologist and Filipino American global public health advocate—reflects on his work combating COVID-19 and his personal journey with terminal lung cancer. Through precision oncology, steadfast faith, and the quiet strength of family legacy, he connects science with grace. He shares how his heritage, service with the CDC Foundation, and the discovery of a rare genetic mutation opened a new path in cancer treatment. More than a medical narrative, this book is a spiritual testament to purpose, healing, and peace amid uncertainty. It offers a heartfelt legacy of love, resilience, and meaning for patients, healthcare professionals, caregivers, and all who seek hope.

• Dr. Ulysses Lagrimas Labilles is an epidemiologist, cancer researcher, and public health advocate whose personal journey has deeply shaped his professional mission. His academic accomplishments include a PhD in Applied Public Health Epidemiology, leadership as president of the Golden Key International Honour Society and other distinguished academic organizations, and a 3.8 GPA. With a career marked by service during the COVID-19 pandemic and contributions to precision oncology, Dr. Labilles has devoted his work to improving outcomes for vulnerable communities. His diagnosis of stage 4 non-small cell lung cancer redirected his focus toward healing, faith, and legacy, making his story one of resilience and hope. The science he helped advance also guided his own care: tumor profiling identified a MET exon 14 skipping mutation, enabling targeted therapy and personalized treatment. After multiple brain surgeries, he was inspired to write Grace in the Genome, a memoir documenting his experience. A father of four, Dr. Labilles, has continued to share his medical and spiritual journey through his writing. The Genome of Faith: A Life Unfolding Between Heaven and Earth received praise and a recommendation from US Review of Books for its blend of scientific realism and personal faith. The memoir was featured as a cover story in the annual issue of Explora Magazine associated with the London Book Fair, later showcased at international book fairs in Manila and Frankfurt, and earned strong reader ratings on retail platforms such as Barnes & Noble, Amazon and Waterstones, the largest, premier book retailer in the UK.