Never Give Up. Stand Up Against Cancer
In the face of a serious illness, life and will power often become fragile. Some cancer patients feel exhausted and distressed when undergoing a series of treatments and even thought of giving up; some patients however still have hope even when their body is weak, and will not let go of any treatment opportunities. Leung Cho Tai is the latter.
Mr. Leung’s life has been through ups and downs. He used to be a stockbroker, but since 2012, life has been like falling off a cliff. It can be said that he was bankrupt or unemployed, in recent years, his income is less than 10% of the previous years. Most unfortunately, he was diagnosed with nasopharyngeal cancer in 2014.
Mr. Leung worked hard to fight cancer for 5 years and by 2019, he thought he was cured and was able to rejoin the society. But after a few months as a security guard, the cancer suddenly recurred. Later, it was confirmed that the cancer cells from the nasopharyngeal carcinoma had metastasised to the spine. He recalled the situation,” This time a tumor was discovered and it was pressing on the fourth section of the thoracic spine. The oncologist said it is rare, but because it presses the nerve, it was not a single lump, it is sticking to the bone in a mass so no surgery can be performed, only electrotherapy and chemotherapy. The doctor said I would have to live with the tumor.”
One day, by chance, Mrs. Leung obtained a leaflet about Haven of Hope’s Integrated Rehabilitation Programme and Mr. Leung decided to give it a try. After evaluation, the professional team decided to adopt a combination of Chinese and Western medicine rehabilitation treatment. The Chinese physicians and the therapists jointly formulated a comprehensive plan, including acupuncture, Chinese medicine and alternative treatments.
Prior to receiving treatment, Mr. Leung’s shoulder, neck and back muscles were very hard and the muscle tissues were stuck together affecting the movement of his shoulder and neck. In addition, as a result of radiotherapy, the treatment areas were blackened, his skin was dry and peeling. Furthermore, his eyesight, memory, hearing and cognition were not ideal, he was unsteady in walking, feeling confused, unable to eat, constipated, etc.
Soon after he received the treatment, his shoulder and neck muscles became soft, and the dark part of his back became lighter. Mr. Leung also stated that his foot numbness and lower back pain were alleviated, he moved about more vigorously, his appetite and spirit were much better than before. “I used to have no bowel movements for four days due to chemotherapy but after acupuncture and Chinese medicine, it is almost back to normal. In addition, the walking ability has improved. Although crutches are still required, it is much better now than when I fell in the middle of the road due to weak legs. Also, the fibrosis of the esophagus caused by chemotherapy has improved. Now I can eat soft food.” To the courageous Mr. Leung, we pray that you get stronger and healthier day by day. Love and support each other and make a better tomorrow!
If you wish to donate to Haven of Hope Integrated Rehabilitation Programme or apply for subsidies, please contact us at 2703 3373 or 2703 2014.