Hello, I'm Wei Ying and this is my cancer journey.
Alarming symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath and coughing up blood were similar to my father's, who died of cancer. That's what led to my lung cancer diagnosis.
My doctor's recommended treatment plan was surgery in the form of wedge resection to remove a tumor, alongside chemotherapy. I'm currently taking chemotherapeutics now.
More than a few years ago, I was having symptoms like chest pain and shortness of breath. Alarmingly, I was coughing up blood too. I lost my father to cancer, and when I started showing similar symptoms, my mother urged me to visit the doctor. Eventually, I was diagnosed with stage 2 lung cancer.
Upon receiving this diagnosis, I was overcome with sadness. I found myself in grief and feeling vulnerable. Above all, I didn't know how to tell my mother and comfort her since my father lost his battle to the same cancer.
I've made several changes to my lifestyle in terms of modifying my nutrition and diet, opting for healthier choices 3 to 5 days a week. I also exercise more frequently and lower my alcohol intake. Before my diagnosis, I had 3 drinks a week; now, I've completely cut out alcohol.
- Surgery Plan:
Wedge Resection — Removal of small tumor
- Non-surgical Treatment:
Chemotherapy
My doctor's recommended treatment plan comprises surgery in the form of wedge resection to remove a small tumor, complemented by chemotherapy. I proceeded with these recommendations, and am currently on chemotherapy medication. Deciding on this treatment plan filled me with a sense of hope, motivation and relief.
While undergoing treatment, I grappled with some side effects that accompanied my therapy. Among the most prominent are fatigue and hair loss. Despite these challenges, I've learnt to manage the side effects with improved nutrition.
Since beginning treatment, I did not make any further adjustments to my lifestyle. However, in terms of my relationships with loved ones, I have noticed significant changes. Specifically, I've been dedicating more time to my mother, contacting and visiting her more frequently than I used to before my cancer diagnosis. In addition to focusing on my ongoing treatment and hoping for the best outcome, my plans for the future include spending more time with her.
Looking ahead, I hold onto my dream of having a fulfilling career as a photographer, fueled by my passion for capturing the best photos all around the world.
My aspirations also extend beyond career ambitions. I hope to be able to live a long and fulfilling life, eventually growing old and building a family of my own one day.
My biggest fear is the cancer worsening. I fear for my mother; I don't want her to be alone and endure the same grief she experienced when my father passed.
I try to think positively and not let my mind wander to the worst case scenario. I occupy myself in my hobbies.
Reflecting on my emotions today, I find myself embracing a sense of optimism, courage and hope.
Cancer is terrible and it's hard to accept that it's happening to you. Take time to sit with it, then get up and fight when you are mentally ready.
This patient's story is published and shared with their full consent. Any personal data that can be used to identify the patient has been omitted.
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