13 Reasons To Stay Book

If you feel like giving up, read this first...

13 Reasons to Stay: Liham ng mga Muntik Nang Sumuko is a collection of letters, reminders, and real-life reflections from two people who almost gave up—but chose to stay.

Written by the co-founders of Bakás®, who also made the viral Comfort Cards®, this book isn’t filled with perfect advice or toxic positivity. Instead, it offers gentle realizations, raw stories, and personal reasons to hold on—especially on the days when staying feels like the hardest thing to do.

Born out of their own struggles, this book is what they wish they had when they hit rock bottom. It’s not a step-by-step guide. It’s not even a solution. But it’s proof that healing is possible, and that pain can be turned into purpose.

Whether you’re in the dark or walking with someone who is, this book is a companion. A reminder. A quiet voice that says:

You are not alone. Your feelings are valid.

And there are still reasons to stay.

About the Authors

John Cornwill is a self-made young social entrepreneur, investor, and an impact marketer. Camille Velarde-Cornwill is a registered nurse and a budding artist. They co-founded Bakás® at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic while they were both still students. Elementary batchmates turned partners in life, Camille and John are now husband and wife, navigating life, advocacy, and entrepreneurship hand in hand. Together, they wrote this book not as experts—but as survivors, friends, and fellow humans still choosing to stay, every single day.