My first post for 2015 will NOT be about my travels just yet but rather to reveal to all who have been asking what happened to me last year and what a “New Life” means to me.
First off, welcome to my new blog layout!!! Happy New Year to all of you.. May you have a great 2015!
Last year was a year of bombshells and tears for not just me, but the people around me especially my family and Ben(I should give him a nickname soon!). What you should know about me is that I am a workaholic, go-getter, and over-achiever. I would say it’s not too good when you are stressing your body out too much! Why you ask? It’s because I spent a good 4-5 months reeling from the effects of it…
What happened in 2014?
Many of you asked me after this video came out “What do you mean Thank GOD that you are alive?”
I thought really hard on whether I should share it but many who knew kept asking me to share my experience with the youth out there who may be battling it as well.
The truth was, I was diagnosed with colon cancer on June 24th 2014. Many of you probably saw me posting a picture on my Facebook Page and Instagram on June 20th that I was in the hospital. While I posted it up, what was meant to be a routine colonoscopy which I was discouraged from by the doctor as I was “Too young” to undergo it turned into a nightmare. There were four people scheduled to undergo the procedure that morning but only I was left on the bed till 5pm waiting for the doctor to come and see me.
I admired my positivity telling the nurse “Just ask the doctor to call me.. I understand if it’s standard operating procedure he needs to tell me personally but I am fine hearing the results on the phone” as I was in a rush to beat the jam assuming it was nothing anyway. The minute the Doctor walked in looking at the folder and saying these words to me didn’t register for a few minutes..
” Mei Sze, you are so young but we detected a tumour 1/3 the size of your colon”
The rest of what he said didn’t matter until I heard the word biopsy… which immediately equates it to the possibility of the BIG C = Cancer! It was an arduous wait for the biopsy results with tears on a daily basis, and soothing the people around me, while trying to lead a normal life. And the results came out on a Tuesday evening.. I had COLON CANCER
Can you imagine what was going through my mind when I found out? Upon confirmation, I vowed to myself that I won’t cry anymore but to SOLVE THE PROBLEM!
Upon knowing on Tuesday, I was scheduled to see my surgeon on Wednesday, and even seek a second opinion during that week of going in and out of the hospital for scans,etc.
I don’t know how I did it, but amidst the anxiety and trying to put everything in order, I still emceed these two events with a smile, especially IBM Tech Conference which was huge!
The only thing to do is to cut of the disease part of the colon first which needed to be done ASAP! I checked in to the hospital on the 27th of June, and my operation was on the 28th of June. What I wasn’t prepared for was the complications because the tumour was so near my rectum…
Didn’t have time to be anxious, or worries, but to look forward to the operation the next day when I checked in to the hospital for my first surgery
My family and friends who gave me encouragement before the huge surgery.. Thank you so much!!!!
So what were the complications?
Due to low blood pressure and the surgery being too long, four and a half hours, the surgeon had to pull my intestines out of my body and put it in a bag. It’s called a colostomy bag. It was basically living with the bag for 1.5 months or die….
36 hours after surgery and still in and out of consciousness from morphine.. All my friends and family who visited with flowers and balloons really made me wanted to get up quicker but I could not move yet….
My immune system was so low that all the flowers in my room made me allergic to the pollen , and each and every one had to be put outside!!! Plus, I was having fever and on and off for a couple of days…
Finally awake and sitting up a little higher but still unable to eat or drink, basically on drips for 4 days!!
Yay! Finally set up straight on the 6th day! And able to drink water!
All smiles as sitting up was an achievement for me already as the stomach area was not allowed to be moved for days
2nd achievement, got to walk a little bit to the chair opposite my bed!!
Doctor allowed me to go to the Starbucks downstairs on a wheelchair
Checked out on the 9th day:)
This experience really made me appreciate the little things we take for granted such as walking, sitting and most of all EATING as I was not allowed to eat for days after both surgeries, and was only eating soft food for 2.5 months. Of course I lost alot of weight, a total of 6 kg for the already thin me during that period.
Of all that I have been through, I would have to say living with a colostomy bag for 1.5 month was the most difficult physically, mentally and emotionally as it tests you at all levels but I thank GOD I am one of the lucky ones that gets to rejoin it after.
I will share more in my next few posts on my experiences with health insurance and living with a colostomy bag, but all I can say is…. Thank you GOD for saving me before it was too late!
That was my 2014, and I know 2015 will be an amazing year filled with happiness, laughter, more healing, opportunities, and appreciation:)
This is ME now!! Don’t worry.. stay tune to my Japan Updates!!
Love,
Mei Sze
P.S. Feel free to share your thoughts and questions, I will answer them.
Hello Mei Sze,
Great to hear that you are recovering well and very positive. That is the way to go! I am 30 and had been diagnosed with ovarian cancer in Oct. So I understand that the journey will not be an easy one. This is part and parcel of life. However, strive on and keep yourself happy!
My Encologist had mentioned to drink / blend papaya leave which is apparently good for platelet count as it will go down during chemo. Alternatively, you may eat the skin of red dates. Drink more chrysanthemum tea too.
Do take care and let me know if you need anything.
Love
TT
Hi TT,
I am sorry to hear that!! You can battle through it. Don’t worry, stay strong and always remember.. You are better than ovarian cancer.. you are stronger that you are today.. and with that mindset.. anything is possible:)
Hi Mei Sze,
Im amazed by your positive attitude and im sure alot of pp out there will be inspired by your and have the determination and encouragement they need, my granny was diagnosed with lymphoma at the age of 80 and she hada go thru chemo and all, but she is a fighter and she totally recovered from it after all the procedures…now she is 87 and still fighting strong!!! :D…im a little curious as to why you went for a routine colonoscopy? Do u feel any pain or faced any uncomfortable situations with your stomach or anything like that before you even discovered this? I have a partner that is suffering from like IBS and she is quite stubborn to see a doctor…im just worried and want to hear your story if you face any symptoms? Also, did u have an existing hospital plan or other types of insurance that covered all your procedures? Wish to hear how did insurance helped you along the way….Thank you for your time 🙂
Regards,
Andro
Hi Andro,
I am glad your granny is a figher!!!! I went because I had prolong diarrhea for 3 weeks and no meds could help. Basically, my father insisted I do the scopy when the doctor said I was too young.
As for insurance, it currently doesn’t cover and post operative proceudres after 60 days which means any further check ups recently was self-paid which is a huge financial burden sometimes. In terms of insurance, I suggest getting higher cirtical illness and a medical card is a definite!
Hi Mei Sze,
I just come by your blog by my cousin share link.
You are really very brave & willing to share what you have been through.
May you be happy everyday & pink health.
JIAYOU !!
missET
Hi ET,
Thank you:) Appreciate it
Hi Mei Sze, can I ask how you found out you had a tumour Initially???
Hi Cicci,
Through colonoscopy.
[…] more positive! This post is a continuation from my first blog post of the year which you can find HERE on my discovery of having colon […]
what made u insist to go for the routine colonoscopy? Coz the doctor said u r too young to go for this kind of routine check..
Hi Jia Yee,
My dad insisted as I had prolong diarrhea…
Hey, I just had to say that your post kind of brought me to tears reading it. It is always inspiring to hear from the survivors and makes us not take things for granted like those little tantrum with the parents, or those harsh little words to the siblings, maybe some unfinished words to somebody. I have an aunt who had cervical cancer and she is a survivor, that I am glad but although there were a few things that actually brought our attention to, health insurance. The bills were past the limit for her claims and we had to bear the cost which was quite a substantial amount. I hope you could share your insights and your experience soon,
Hi Daryl,
Thank you for sharing. Yes, please watch out for my next post. It’s so important.. I cannot stress it enough. Will be up tomorrow.
How was colonscopy done? Need general anaesthetia? I had bad Diahorrea but it is not the time. So I was thinkin maybe it’s irritable bowel SYDROME. Now, with yr post, I am a bit nervous. U r v brave. Happy everything is ok now 🙂
Hi Elin,
Yes, you need to be sedated. They basically stick a tube up your anus and take a look at your colon. The procedure takes up to 15-30 minutes depending on the specialist. I highly recommend my doctor, datuk yunus Gul from Prince Court/Gleneagles.. He’s very gentle and nice:)
Hi MS,
It was 5 years ago when i contracted the Big C, but unlike you mine was testicular stage 4 as the cells spread to my neck. I can still remember the shock i had when the doc misdiagnosed my condition to be lung cancer. Well nuff said, chemo for 6 mths followed by 3 surgeries back then and major disruptions to my work and career, now i am into remission. Totally agreed with you that hope and positivity goes a long way in this arduous journey. Hope u enjoy your upcoming trips overseas and thanks for sharing your experience.
RY
Hi RY,
Thank you for sharing;) Keep it up.. and let’s pray the big-CC stays away!
It is heartening to know u battled the disease. .my mum wasn’t so fortunate. .she was admitted to hos on 13 may 14 due to abdominal pain and they discovered tumors in her rectum..n she had rectal cancer which speaded…there was also tumors in her colon and uterus. .she didn’t have a chance to undergo surgery and passed away on 30 may…it was a huge shock for us and I am still battling to accept it today..just feeling like there must be some cancer in me and I will surely die from it one day..it doesn’t help that my hubby also has leukemia. .though his is under control now. .
Anyway happy for you and do keel healthy and will be reading abt your C journey. .thanks for sharing. ..
Hi Cindy,
I am so so sorry to hear that:( Yes, mine was rectal cancer more than colon actually. I only have 1/3 left and still have side effects.. but staying strong helps and one big thing is accepting it. I hope you will slowly accept it although it shocked you.. Stay Strong..hugz<3
Hi Mei Sze,
Your story is really inspiring and literally made me into tears.
I’ve a friend who have this situation as well. She had diarrhea for a year, constipation for few months, after doing abdominal scanning and faeces specimen testing, her doctor said everything is fine. But her situation still hasn’t recover.
The doctor didn’t say to do colonoscopy but i think colonoscopy is the fastest way to find out.
Did you do some other pre test before doing colonoscopy?
Thanks for sharing.
Cheers
Jess
Hi Jess,
Awww.. Thank you. Hhmm.. better consult a doctor. I suggest Datuk Yunus at Gleneagles.
I didn’t do any test before that.. colonoscopy is the fastest.. trust me
Hey Mei Sze, I am glad you recovered from colon cancer real quickly , but always be aware of relapse. My mum had colon cancer 6 years ago, and somehow it spread to her lungs before infecting her brain and passing away last August. I suggest you to make regular checkups every 2 months. Other than that, hopefully you’re on a highway to recovery and wish you a great health!
Hi Ryan,
Thank you for letting me know. Yes, I have regular checks. It’s too important especially when we are young…
Mei Sze, like you I found out at a very young age about my colon cancer and like you it was completely unexpected.. My tumour was very close to the rectum and I am still recovering but I can tell you that in the first year you’ll see an amazing diference – loperamide and colesevalam can be your best friends!
Positivity really is an amazing thing. Keep it up 🙂
Hi M,
Thank you fro sharing. Rreally appreciate it:)
I will google what you’ve just mentioned. The side effects can be a real PAIN but let’s overcome it together!!! Fighting!
Dear Mei Sze,
I do not know you personally, but I was touched and inspired after reading about you and your struggle with your illness.
You are definitely an overachiever, not sure how you did it..but it must have taken alots of determination and perservance to have succeeded in your academic achievement; as well as your various types of works & assignment.
You are really multi-talented and it is really my honour to learnt about someone special like you.
Despite having cancer, you still put up a smile during these period(those pictures in the hospital bed) and carry on with your emcee role (it must be tough for you then)
On top of all that, you are compassionate with people (you want to reach out to the youth). It is one of the rarest qualities you have people in the selfie generation.
I think that you are a really a beautiful person inside out.
Please take care and carry on with what you do, there will be someone like me cheering you from behind.
Hi Daniel,
Thank you for your sweet message. It’s all of you that keep me smiling as well:)
Do stay tune for my nexy post which is very important!! on insurance.. and some otehr stuff…
This entire blog post is filled with so much positivity and gratitude. I’ve lost two family members to cancer and I can’t say that I can emphathise what you go through. You’re a great role model for not just other patients but also to the people around you in general. Thank you for sharing this.
Like everybody else, I hope you’ll be blessed with all the strength to get back up on your feet in no time. X
Hi Shelyn,
Thank you so much. I am so sorry to hear about your family members… do take care of yourself too!
Hey Mei Sze, you are such a strong willed young lady and an inspiration! Continue to live your life to fullest! And thank you for blessing us with the true meaning of appreciating even the simplest things in life. Take care!
Hi Peggie,
Thank you for your email:) Really appreciate it.
Hi Mei Sze,
Like many on this page I also came across your story on Facebook, and I immediately clicked to read it because my dad was also diagnosed with colon cancer more than 10 years ago. He also had an emergency colectomy, but unfortunately he has to use a colostomy bag for life. I’ll never forget the fear and worry we went through, especially for my mum who was so affected that she fell into depression. My dad’s attitude was amazing and is still amazing – he never complains about the bag, he is always the one reassuring my mum and he lives life to the fullest. Kudos to you too – your sunny smile and positive vibes in every single photo touched me and reminded me of my dad. I wish you all the best and a long, happy and healthy life ahead. 🙂
Hi Olivia,
I am so happy your dad lives life to the fullest even with a colostomy bag:) Tell your mom to live life to the fullest alongside your dad. If it doesn’t affect him, it sholudn’t affect her too! I wish you and your family especially your dad the happiest of life!!
Hi Meisze,
Thank you for sharing your experience. I went through somewhat a similar experience. Kept passing out blood and went for 2 different scopes. The wait time for the results were so so scary. So many possibilities just goes through the mind. Just going through the scope process alone and waiting for the results were so worrying and sad for me. I can’t imagine going through what you did and I salute you for that!
But with God’s will and although one of the scope wasn’t optimal, the results came out good. I am looking forward to your next entry on insurance. Cos my whole experience with the scopes, etc had made me realize how important insurance are.
Take care babe, God bless.
Hi Noi,
Yes, the waiting kills. I am glad your results are fine. My next post on insurance will be up on Wednesday:)
Stay tune
Hi Mei Sze
saw your page from website…
really brave of you… keep it up and think of positive side… a simple question… do you need to go for radiation and chemotherapy?
Rest well take care…
HI Janice,
Thank you. Nope, I didn’t have to and I thank God for that:)
I attended a session particularly on colon ‘cleanliness’ last night and hope to share a little what the doctor had said.
Do not overlook constipation as ‘small’ issue. Ensure what goes in must come out. Take soluble and non-soluble fibre. Lots of water.
As most food out there does not provide enough fibre in our daily lives, and we eat what we like but not what we need, the big c has penetrating into attack the younger generation.
Kudos MS! It is hard to remain positive in that situation.
Regards
June
Hi June,
Thank you for sharing. Yes, my surgeon tells me the same thing:)
Positivity saves people!
i don’t know you but I still feel I do know you. You are a true inspiration! God bless you with happiness and much more.
Bravo !!!!
Hi Rakesh,
Tahnk you:) Really appreciate it
Hi Mei sze, I’m shocked to hear that such bad news could happen to a lady as young as you. Could you possibly share how you discovered it (e.g. symptoms) so as to bring awareness to us please?
Hi Serene,
yes, I will share it. Basically the symptoms are really hard to detect. I had monthly diarrheas but it was mild so I thought it was sensitive stomach. The other symptom is blood in your stool but I didn’t get it. Constipation can also be a symptom.
Bravo Mei Sze.
I had lung cancer in 2002, fought it like what are doing now, cleared in 2005 and I am now a Cancer survivor.
With your positive attitude, you shall be joining the Cancer Survival Club soon.
Please visit yayasansuriajb.blogspot.com for my cancer story.
Cheerio!
Hi James,
Thank you so much:) Congrats to you! You beat the big-C!!!! yes, I am joining that club
Bravo Mei Sze.
I had lung cancer in 2002, fought it like what are doing now, cleared in 2005 and I am now a Cancer survivor.
With your positive attitude, you shall be joining the Cancer Survival Club soon.
Cheerio!
Hello MZ,
Good to see you are so positive !
25th Jun 2014, same thing happens to me.Big C stage 1 visited me too (endometriod). Arrange for some test and finally this is the day for me yo get result…when I saw doctor he ask where’s my husband and the result have to get my husband to listen together, by that time like oh am I pregnant? Then I call up my husband to get quicker to park his car and get up to the clinic. And who knows the news is I’d been diagnosed with endometriod cancer stage 1. GOD TEARS JUST NON STOP POURING OUT! I dare not to share with my mum, my brothers, only my husband know it for like a week… Dr rang me again, asking am I go for any second advice or checking… and yes I did it at the same hospital with you after 2 days. And yes the result still same. In fact doctor rush me to admit for surgery ASAP to avoid any growth. SO I admitted on 1/7, surgery done on 7/7. Then got no choice I have to tell my mum, brothers… knowing they are so worried but yet I can do ntg… mum cry when talk with me over the phone n she tough I dint hear. Brothers came hospital daily as he is super busy man in the world. I know everyone is worry. Once surgery done, I got depression, because me n husband actually planning to have kids but….. Thank god he is fine and he is very supportive . God bless me. And I rest for 4 months before return to work, and now is my 3rd months in office and yet no one know what happen to me… beside my boss n HR. I’m staying more positive now days after consult to the dr. What I would say is stay happy to beat the Big C!!!
*I even blame my father (he had Big C on colon too) and he passed away 10 years back. He love me the most among the brothers. SO I keep blaming him why give this Big C GEN to me.. but now I wanna say sorry papa for blaming you, I know you protect me while I’m in the surgery room, else I’m dead while in HDU)…. stay strong n Gambateh for us!!!!!
Hi Michelle,
I am sorry to hear that. I believe it’s best to share with you rfamil and close friends as you need them now to support you. It’s difficult to keep it to yourself. In addition, please don’t blame GOD or wonder why it happened to you.. The first step to recovering is accepting it and letting go. Watch your diet, and be happy!! Believe that you have recovered:)
Hey MZ,
Thanks! Family really playing a big part as support for me at that moment. Diet is very important and yes I have no accept it and we’ll recovering now. Hope never come back again and god bless 🙂
The difference God makes in your life is a story worth telling. Your journey of fighting is really amazed ,your positive thinking ,you strength and courage ,and of course your shinning smile has reflected life is full of hopes ,look forward for your next blog regarding how health insurance impact you ~ Last but not least ,I pray and hope you stay healthty ~
Dear Mei Sze,
My mom has the same Cancer with u, colon cancer. Right now she is undergoing radiotherapy and chemotherapy everyday for 25 days, after that she will do one MRI scan after a month before do the operation. She feel very suffering during the stage of radiotherapy and chemotherapy, nausea, diarrhea and etc. I can feel the feeling of heartache everyday as seeing her being so miserable and yet we got nothing to help (except encouraging her). What we all are worry about is the surgery as the doctor also will say may have the possibility she has to carry a colostomy bag. Anyway I’m lucky that I came across your story and I would like to share with my mom to encourage her more! Thank you.
Dear Shan May,
I am so sorry to hear that. I am lucky to not have gone through the chemo or radiotherapy but I did go through colostomy for 1.5 months. As your mom has not gone through the colostomy bag yet and I hope she won’t, the best thing for her now.. is love, support and encouragememt from you guys. The other thing is she has to believe she can get better!!! The mind is very powerful. I will be writing about colostomy in my nex post. Please read it. Also, for surgery, my doctor is very good.. he’s empathetic.. his name is Datuk Yunus gul.. highly recommended not just by me but others.
Please email me at [email protected] if you have further questioins. Stay strong to your mom!!
Hi mei sze,
Would like to know which hospital is your doctor from?
Hi,
From Gleneagles.. He’s really good. I wrote about him in my next post which will be up soon:)
Hi Mei Sze, Glad that you are recovered . Yes, we must be possitive and be brave to fight with Cancer . So glad that you won the battle ! You’re really too young to have colon cancer ! Hope through you will help those who have cancer. I wonder what cause of that ? You seldom drink water, eat veggie, fruits or a meat eater ! Seldom go to the toilet even you needed to. Or your parent are cancer carriers ? As I know it runs in the family.
My daughter’s teacher’s mom has breast cancer and after 1 or 2 years, she found a lump under her arm pit, she has no money so she went to GH in Penang, at first the doctor just gave her some medication and cream, but in Aug, it came back again and had some pain. By Oct they found out it was Cancer , surgrery in Dec and it was the 3rd stage and 3rd grade. Dr said it was a very Active cancer cells. She under went all the treatments and was weak and her sisier in law insisted not to let her eat salt, oil, ( sugar — this must not be eaten), almost anything except big ocean fish — only the expensive fish, she was thinking the most expensive fish is good to her. She kept on lossing weight and weak until I advised her to eat BALCANCE Diet and asked her to join the Cancer Ass. as they know better. She changed her diet and she looked more healthier and completed her treatment, too many times her blood count was too low that she couldn’t complete her treatment. She look so normal now. I am so glad.
Hope you will advise the young poeple why you got colon cancer at such a young age so that the young people will know and to avoid it.
Stay Healthy by eating balance & Healthy diet , more water, veggie, nuts, grains that we seldom include them in our diet.
Wishing you always Healthy, Happy and Pretty.
Hi Mei Sze.. U r such a brave girl.. I’m glad that u r all fine and healthy now 🙂 My dad actually discovered himself with colon cancer last august after a colonoscopy which we forced him to do. We consider ourselves lucky as we discovered it early and managed to send him for operation to get rid of the tumor and my dad is back to normal like before! Thank god for that! 🙂 According to the doc colon cancer is inherit among family members thus he advised us (immediate family member) to get ourself check as well. Thus I’m wondering is there any family history of urs having colon issue? Better check as prevention is better than cure. Do get some advise from ur doctor.
Hi JO,
I am glad your dad is fine now. As for me, I have no history and on top of that, I am young, amnd a female.. so the doctors are puzzled. I am much better now.. hope your dad is watching what he eats!!!!
Always believe:)
Hi Mei Sze,
You’re such a brave lady, I’m so proud of you and your blog bring me to tears.. My very best friend hubby (Mr.R) just done his operation yesterday on fighting the Big-C, thanks God that he notice it very early and Dr gave us very positive feedback.. It was so hard when I knew the news bcoz we are too young but I believe everything happen for a reason and God will always protect n guide us to a better way..
May God bless you thru out this journey and bring you peace in mind and a happy heart.. Don’t worry everything gonna be fine..!!!
Hi Daphne,
Thank you so much for your inspiring message. I am happy you friend detected it early too:)
Tell you friend hope and positivity is the way to go!!
Hi Mei Sze, I came across your post from facebook, and although I don’t know you personally, I find your story very inspiring and you are one brave lady! Your blogpost has reminded me to always be thankful for what we have, especially our health. Thank you for that! Get better soon and continue to have these positive vibes!
Also, could I just ask, what made you still want to go for the colonoscopy in the first place if your doctor had discouraged you from doing so?
Hi Tunn Yuan,
Thank you so much. It was basically monthly diaarrhea and the last one was so bad, it lasted 3 weeks and no medicine could help it. Even after, the doctor said I didn’t need to as I was too young but my father insisted on it;)
Hey MS
Reading your blog brings me back to 2008 Dec
and a nostalgic sense of familiarity.
I am just like you, at the highest peak of my life and yes, like you , the Big -C never cross my mind.
I was diagnose with Stage 3 colon C in 2008, the same thing happen to me, waiting in the room and when the doctor came in, he just stared blindly at me , he said” Yes, it’s confirm, stage 3″. Whatever he says after that didn’t matter anymore.
yes, it is hell, but i remember someone told me ,everything happens for a reason.
Took awhile for me to accept but ultimately , I accept it
I end my career, my business, and focus on my treatment and my start my alternative life( something I never expect)
I cannot tell anyone, or rather, i decide not to tell anyone, so i went through the surgery ( 8 hours ) yes, alone.
Chemotheraphy for 6 months and lots of pains.
fast forward ,6 years, I am doing very well now, I restarted my business, my career and I am in remission.
My CEA reading is norrmal, and every year i renewed my life for another( after i meet the oncologist and he will tell me I am fine, see you next year)
Be strong and I am here to share my experience if you need anything from me as someone who went through the path.
i wish you all the best and remember, you are not alone.
HB
Hi HB,
God Bless!! Thank GOD you are fine now.. I wish you all the best in your career, business and life! Live it to the fullest:)
Lovessss
Hi Mei Sze,
Thank you for sharing. While reading your post, I can feel the positive vibes in you. You were really brave and your faith is unshakable. I can only say WOW at how you went thru courageously. Please don’t mind if I ask, what was the first symptoms you experience that leads you to go for a check? I’ve always been very mindful about this topic as I experience constipation and irregular bowels. And heard about how painful the colonoscopy procedure is..
Hi Gloria,
Thank you so much. It was basically monthly diaarrhea and the last one was so bad, it lasted 3 weeks and no medicine could help it. Even after, the doctor said I didn’t need to as I was too young but my father insisted on it;)
Volonoscopy is not painful.. just super draining.. don’t worry.. just go with a calm purpose!!
Hi Mei Sze, thanks for sharing your story with us. I feel you. Few weeks ago, I underwent a laparoscopy for an ovarian cyst that was growing for at least five year, according to doctor. I was living in agony for a month before knowing that it was benign, thank God. I admire you for your strength and courage. You’re brave to face it heads on and you have a big heart to share this on your page despite the stress you’re going through. I wish you good health and speedy recovery! Stay strong and cheerful. You have a beautiful smile, keep smiling! 🙂
And if you don’t mind sharing, were there any symptoms? What other tests have you done prior to colonoscopy?
Hi Melody,
Thank you so much. It was basically monthly diaarrhea and the last one was so bad, it lasted 3 weeks and no medicine could help it. Even after, the doctor said I didn’t need to as I was too young but my father insisted on it;)
I am much better now.. just stay strong!!
What a brave young lady u are meisze!! My uncle had colon cancer but he fought on and has been cancer-free for 2 years n counting. God bless u & may u recover fully n stay cancer-free from now on! All the best & sending prayers your way! Take care!
Hi Elaine.
Thank you:) I am cancer free now… just very close surveillance!!!
Hi Mei Sze, thank you for sharing your experience. If you don’t mind me asking, what was it that prompted you to go for a colonoscopy? Would like to just understand the symptoms and whatnot. Thank you!
Hi Mei Sze,
Your story is very inpiring especially if one is going through some rough period. I cant agree more that we shouldnt take small things like EATING, walking or even sleeping for granted.
Lets continue to be grateful for every little things like that.
May you stay healthy and happy forever.
With Love.
HI Shyann,
Yes, never take life for granted.. 🙂
Like many others, I am inspired by your post and cheerful pics to seize the day. Thank you for the reminder and may you be healthy always. Ps u are very pretty!
May the good Lord bless you always
Hi Lilian,
Thank you for reading. Stay tune for the most important ones coming up:)
Hi Mei Sze, thank you for sharing your story with us, and may God continue to put you in His favours 🙂
May i ask what prompted you to go get a colonoscopy in the first place?
Hi Samatha,
It was monthly diaarhea(which I attributed to a sensitive stomach), and because my father insisted on it even whenh the doctor said there was no need to do it….
I know exactly went through your mind when you were told by the doctor as I went through the experience more than three years ago.
Immediately after the Colonscopy the doctor (UMMC) told me that it is cancerous.
After my surgery I prayed regularly to the Almighty God to help defeat the big C once and forever from my system; I am very sure He has
done that. I sincerely hope and pray that He will help you in the same way.
I am glad to say I have managed to become a member of the Septuagenarian Club. When I read your story I am really surprised because you are still very young to have it in your colon.
With this second chance, I am more appreciative of the many gifts that God has given to the human race in this world. I am really thankful to Him for sending all the good doctors and hospital personnel who helped during the surgery and post recovery period.
Hi Lincoln,
Touche to all that you’ve mentioned. My biggest challenge would be having a colostomy bag for 1.5 months.. The cancer is gone now.. just recovering from the side effects of teh surgery…
Thank you for you words of encouragment
Hi Mei Sze. I came across your blogpost via facebook page and all I can say is that you are a really strong lady! I really admire how positive you are despite all the things that you have to go through during that period of time. And the smile that you put on on those photos is really beautiful. I’m sure this post of your’s will be a great help to those battling with this illness, and that they will be able to receive the positive strength from you to carry on with their treatment.
I wish you all the best in health and stay pretty and cheerful as always 🙂
Hi Shu Hui,
Thank you for your words of encouragement. I really appreciate it!!
your blog post reminds me of a friend who had colon cancer and she was called to the Lord two years ago.. but glad that you’ve gone through yours and share this with everyone. Appreciating everyone around us and not taking anything for granted. 🙂
happy to hear that you’re well and all clear now… stay healthy and cheers 😉
Hi Rose,
I am sorry to hear about your friend. Thank you for your encouragment and support. God Bless<3
Blessing all the way from Penang, my thoughts are with you and your family.
Keep it up and all the best!
Cheers.
Thank you KT:)
I lost my mom to colon cancer many years ago, and recently started going for my colonoscopy (all clear so far, thank god). So, i understand how your family and close friends may feel dealing with this issue. Your positivity helps them more than you think, so please keep this up, and i wish you all the best.
Hi Jerm,
My condolesnces to you and your family. I understand it must have been tough seeing her through the battle, it’s not easy. Now, I can say I know… And congrats on the all clear.. BUT please checkup regularly… God Bless
Hi Mei Sze,
i stumbled upon your blog, in particular this post about ur cancer experience randomly via fb. And i hardly leave any comments on ppl’s blog but I gotta say u r one brave and courageous young lady. U hav so much positive vibes in u that u r able to channel it to ur readers js through ur writing and cheerful photos! I pray and wish u speedy recovery and tht u r free fr cancer and tht u will get to lead a much healthier life fr now onwards. Have faith in God and He will watch over u. Take care and get 100% well soon!
May God bless u always and forever……
Hi Kathryne,
Thank you for your comment. I really appreciate it. I am clear now… just regular check ups are really important:)
Hey, am just a random stranger who saw this post. 🙂 Reading your story, encourages me, and teaches me to appreciate life daily, moment by moment. 🙂 Keep going and continue being a blessing to those around you. 🙂
Hi Mugilan,
I am glad it did. Thank you so much. Do stay tune for the rest… it’s important to read it..
Hi mei sze.. We don’t know each other but I just want to salute you for the courage you have shown in battling the big C. You are indeed very brave ! May God bless you abundantly and get well soon =)
Hi Adeline,
Thank you so much!! May God bless you too!!!!
Please stay positive and inspire others!
Rooting for your full recovery!
Hi Nis,
Thank you so much.. your words encourage me:)
Glad to see you restored .
Hi Tann,
Thank you:)
stay strong and wish you speedy recovery
HI Sharon,
Thank you:) Appreciate it
You are such a strong angel. All the best to you!
Dear Mei Sze, I met you once at In2 office. Thanks for the yummy macaroons, if you still remember LOL. Stay strong and see you soon 🙂
Hi Lu Yi,
Of course, I remembered. How are you?
Thank you and see you soon for sure!
be strong and pray for the best =) Nothing is impossible
Thank you so much<3
Pray that you stay strong, healthy and happy always. Your story truly reminds me to not take things for granted and that we should appreciate all the lil things in life. You got my support 🙂
Hi CY,
Thank you so much:) Seriously.. never take things for granted
I’m just a stranger that stumbled across this post, but I wanted to take the time to tell you how strong you are, and that I wish you all the best in your endeavours.
Thank you stranger… I really appreciate it:) Do stay tune to the rest.. I will definitely do my best!
Haven’t got the chance to meet you in person yet but be tough and keep going!
Support you!
Thank you Charmaine.. I really appreciate it.. hope to see you soon:)
I usually don’t read blogs, and when I do, I very rarely leave a comment. I don’t know who you are, I just randomly clicked on a link in Facebook and ended up here.
It’s hard to describe the emotions I’m feeling right now having read this post. I don’t know anyone who is as positive as you are. Seeing you smiling in all your pictures during one of the darkest times in your life gives me mixed feelings and frankly it made me feel a little warm.
I lost an uncle to colon cancer because we discovered it too late. It was a very sad episode in my family’s life.
I hope you will be healthier each passing day and always keep your positive outlook. It gives people hope and really just makes the world a much better place to live in, especially for someone like me who is on the verge of depression.
I’m rooting for you a 100% and I’ll follow your updates from time to time. Good luck Mei Sze!
Thank you so much John! It is messages like these that keep me going staying strong and all the support I am getting… I did write a piece on depression on my psycology category… Depression is something that needs to be treated.. Kindly message me at [email protected] and I can point you in the right directiopn.. It’s ok to seek help… Just so you know.. 🙂
I’m rooting for you, babe! It’s been awhile since we last attended an event together with MHB. Keep fighting babe. <3 Will keep you in my prayers.
Thank you so much Ashley! Enjoy yourself in NZ:)
Just want to ask, what do you feel and make u go hospital to checkout for colon cancer?
Thank you for this question. I had diarrhea at least once a month.. and the last straw was when my whole family had diarrhea due to bad milk and I didn’t recover for 3 weeks even with medication…
Hi Mei Sze,
Glad to hear you are kicking the big C in the butt! get well soon! and thanks for sharing this personal piece with everyone to create awareness.. may I ask what spurred you to get a colonoscopy done in the first place?
Hi MizzD,
As I replied Kent, I had diarrhea at least once a month.. and the last straw was when my whole family had diarrhea due to bad milk and I didn’t recover for 3 weeks even with medication… my dad insisted I go for a scope.. even when the doctor said I didn’t need it because I was too young to do such an evasive procedure
Hi Ms Choo, glad to read about how you survived your battle with colon cancer. Your story and courage is inspirational. thanks for raising the awareness in this disease as I think many still thinks colon cancer only affects those in the senior years. I would really like to know more about what prompted you to undergo colonoscopy? What are the telltale signs that we should be cautious of? I myself has a problematic gut and the fear of getting colon cancer is always over my head. Looking forward to your next entry to learn more. Glad you made it! Wish you well.
Hi Sheon,
Thank you for the question. My answer to your question:
I had diarrhea at least once a month.. and the last straw was when my whole family had diarrhea due to bad milk and I didn’t recover for 3 weeks even with medication… my dad insisted I go for a scope.. even when the doctor said I didn’t need it because I was too young to do such an evasive procedure
So, always trust you gut feel… and never take health for granted
Take care, and stay strong! Let’s go makan at Purple Cane again! 😀
Thank you Caroline!! Purple cane for sure:)
Hi Mei Sze,
Just wanna say that I think you’re such a strong lady and thank you for sharing this! Amidst battling cancer and performing your career, you still manage to smile and deliver your job perfectly. Seeing your big smile in the IBM conference photos, nobody would have known what you were actually going through. And the fact that you manage to put on big smiles in every single photo throughout the journey of battling the illness, I find that really inspiring. I wish you lots of love, joy & great health for many many more years to come.
Regards,
Yvonne
Hi Yvonne,
Thank you so much for your words of encouragement. Positivity as spoken by my surgeon, Datuk Yunnus is the way to go… if you cry everyday.. you would just feel worse..
Do continue keeping up to date!! <3