SHARES
As a passionate hotelier devoted to her job, Celine describes herself as a workaholic. Indeed, in the same fashion, she loves discovering places, meeting new people and experiencing other cultures. However, a shocking diagnosis with stage three endometrial cancer in early 2013 forced her career to come to a crashing halt, albeit temporary. After a series of arduous treatment prescribed by Dr Kevin Tay, she has since achieved complete remission from the year end of 2013.
Celine (most left) posing while on trip (Photo credit: Celine)
“I have always been healthy, with no major health issues. Despite that, I found myself having abnormal vaginal bleeding during early 2013,” said Celine. She consulted her regular gynaecologist. “My gynaecologist commented that ladies of my age (in early forties) commonly experience similar issues due to endometrial lining thickening or precancerous conditions. Nonetheless, I was advised to undergo further investigations and biopsy for confirmation.”
The tests were done on Monday, and an appointment to review the results was set to be on the same Friday. “Instead, I received a call from the clinic on Thursday, saying that the doctor wanted to see me immediately. As it turns out, the tests had found stage 1 cancer in the womb,” she recalled. “It was shocking initially, but I trust that my doctor knew what she was doing.”
Since the cancer was well-contained, her doctor recommended total abdominal hysterectomy bilateral salpingo oophorectomy (TAHBSO), a procedure to remove the entire uterus, ovaries, Fallopian tubes and cervix. “Although I was single with no boyfriend back then, it sounded very extreme. If that was the best treatment to remove all traces of cancer cells, then I’ll go for it,” she said calmly and bravely. “I was told that if my reproductive system was removed and the lab tests confirm stage one cancer, no further treatment would be required. I should be able to bounce back in one or two months.”
On the contrary, the lab tests found another cancer in the ovary. Sadly, her endometrial cancer was revised as stage three! This would also mean that chemotherapy and other treatment would be necessary to treat the cancer. Such devastating news was overwhelming and difficult to accept.
Pausing Work for Cancer Treatment
“Being a workaholic, I was worried that a long hiatus of six months would cause me to lose my job.” Eventually, Celine came to terms that her health should be the main priority and informed her boss about her condition. “It didn’t make sense to leave my position vacant for extended period. Therefore, someone else would replace me at work. However, I was assured that once I recover, the company would help me get back on my feet.”
Another silver lining was – the company had gotten enough insurance coverage for the staff. “Knowing that I did not need to worry about treatment costs was reassuring. I felt blessed to have the right insurance coverage to allow me to regain my health,” she said.
Staying Put for Chemotherapy
“I was referred to OncoCare Cancer Centre by my gynae oncologist. The people there were friendly and encouraging. The team went out of their way to make it such a pleasant experience, that I felt that I was connected to the right team right away,” described Celine. After TAHBSO on 8 April 2013, Dr Tay planned for six cycles of chemotherapy from 6 May 2013 to 4 September 2013.
“During my first chemotherapy session, I developed an allergy reaction, with rashes all over my body. I was scared and worried. I thought to myself, ‘If these drugs don’t work, what’s next?’. Fortunately for me, I reacted well to new regime in the next cycle and subsequent ones,” she said.
“The first few days after chemotherapy were the worst, as I would feel extreme lethargy. I would rest and watch dramas. Once I regained some strength, I started online courses to enhance my knowledge in hotel management,” describing a few ways to keep herself busy.
“I am an active person. Prior to chemotherapy, I was either at work, travel or with friends. While I was on chemotherapy, there were two instances where I sneaked out to meet my friends. Both times, I ended up with fever! Since then, I stopped hanging out. I stayed at home like a good girl,” she said, laughing at her own mischief.
Going beyond Cancer Treatment and Remission
After completing chemotherapy, Celine went on to radiotherapy to the pelvic region from 9 October 2013 to 22 November 2013. She has been doing well and in complete remission since then. Currently, she is on observation and follow up every six monthly with Dr Tay.
“Celine has gone past the five-year mark. She is now almost seven years post-treatment. I just reviewed her on 5 June 2020, and I would say her prognosis is very good,” Dr Tay commented. “Celine is a happy-go-lucky person with a positive outlook. Brave to face her fears and rise to the occasion, a real fighter,”
“Dr Tay is friendly yet professional. He was always available for questions. Back in 2015, I had a health crisis and sought help from Dr Tay. He then referred me to another specialist for treatment. Occasionally, Dr Tay would check up on me to see if I was overworked or well-rested, knowing that I would always go that extra mile at work,” said Celine, as she recalled her experience with Dr Tay.
Living Life with New Perspective after Cancer
“My family is a big part of my life. After being struck with cancer, I was reminded to spend more time with my family members. Now, we have two family trips every year. I have since slowed down at work and have a better appreciation for work-life balance,” said Celine.
When asked to share words of wisdom from surviving cancer, she said: “Do not worry about cancer, as it is a common condition that is no longer incurable. If there is life, there is hope. Instead, listen to the professionals and follow their recommendations. Focus on getting well. On top of that, always have positive mindset to overcome the situation.”
Celine with her family while on trips (Photo credit: Celine)
A Word from GetDoc
Always listen to your body. Any unexplainable body changes should prompt a visit to the doctor for further investigation. If you or your loved one experience unusual signs and symptoms, consult a doctor today for early diagnosis and treatment.
This patient testimony was brought to you by Oncocare Cancer Centre, Singapore.
Further reads:
- How to Spot Cancer Early – Beware of the Warning Signs [Part 1]
- How to Spot Cancer Early – Beware of the Warning Signs [Part 2]
Find an Oncologist in Malaysia, on GetDoc
Find an Oncologist in Singapore, on GetDoc
by Joanne Lee
Multipotentialite. Loves creating and seeing ideas come alive. View all articles by Joanne Lee.
