  |

You could say my life is all about second chances.
It began when my mother was diagnosed with liver cirrhosis and the doctor sent our family for blood tests and medical check-ups.
Shortly after, the doctor called me up and informed me that there was something wrong with my test results. I needed to go for further tests.
It was then that I was diagnosed with liver cancer. Me, the fit and active PE teacher. Imagine my shock.
Determined to be healthy, I took medication to control the cancerous cells and began chemotherapy. Not long after that, my life really fell apart.
In 2000, my mother passed away. 3 years later, I lost my sister to ovarian cancer. I felt so helpless.
But even as I struggled to come to terms with all that had happened, I knew that I had to go on because of my family. My two children were very young at that time.
I continued to live a healthy lifestyle. Despite being on medication and going for chemotherapy, I kept active and continued to teach PE. I also adopted a healthy diet, stopped eating red meat and ate more fish instead.
However, my medication began losing its effect and my condition worsened. Two operations also didn't stop the cancer. That was when my doctor brought up the option of a liver transplant.
I felt hopeful about it. Since it was the only way I could get healthy again, I wanted to give it a try.
My wife was extremely supportive even though I knew she was very worried. In the end, I waited 9 months to receive the donor organ.
Thankfully, everything went smoothly and I count myself lucky to be able to return to my wife and kids.
Today, I still teach PE. I spend as much time as possible with my family. I also keep active and climb Bukit Timah Hill every week. I'm a firm believer that people should not give up on life, but face challenges strongly in order to overcome them.
My family and I are thankful for my chance to live life anew. Give organ donation your support as it helps give others a second chance at life.
|
|

|
|