Grace was a healthy woman when she was diagnosed with Stage 3 colon cancer. Having had no sign that anything was wrong, the diagnosis came as a shock.
Grace came across a Singapore Cancer Society (SCS) Facebook post giving away FIT (Faecal Immunochemical Test) kits at no charge, and having hit the minimum 50 years of age, decided to request for one. Upon receiving the FIT kit in the mail, she conducted the quick swab test at home and mailed sent the samples off for testing. One came back with traces of blood, and she was contacted by Changi General Hospital (CGH) for a follow up with a specialist.
After a colonoscopy and CT scan for more detailed clinical investigation, her biopsy came back positive for cancer. At that point, the cancer had spread to her lymph nodes and the hospital arranged for an urgent surgery within a fortnight.
In that moment, it felt like everything was moving too quickly and Grace was frightened. However, she had the opportunity to speak with a colon cancer survivor, and after discussing with her family members, she decided not to procrastinate on treatment.
Grace underwent robotic surgery at CGH to remove the tumour. Before the surgery, she received great support from the hospital care team, learning exercises to strengthen her core muscles in preparation for post-operation rehabilitation. The surgery was successful and Grace suffered minimal pain post-surgery. A few days after the surgery, she was able to get out of bed and walk and was discharged from hospital shortly after.
Grace has resumed work and copes well with her daily chores. When things are more settled, she plans to join a cancer support group so she can share her cancer journey with others.
In the meantime, she is an ardent advocate of early screening.
“Get screened early before it becomes an unmanageable problem,” said Grace, “It is an insignificant hassle to request for the test kit and to conduct the self-test at home, a peace of mind allows you to enjoy your life. Stay strong and be optimistic regardless of the challenges life throws at you.”
Written by Choong Hong.