At 79 and retired, the past seven years of Mr Melvyn Chan’s life have been a testament to his strength and resilience.
While other people his age may be enjoying a calmer chapter of life, Melvyn has faced daunting medical challenges that would test anyone’s spirit – from chronic spinal ailments to a rare and complex double cancer diagnosis.
Struggles with Health
Melvyn’s health problems began in 2018 when persistent aches in his back, neck, and shoulders, along with numbness radiating down his arms and legs, led him to seek medical advice.
Diagnosed with spinal stenosis in the lumbar region and cervical myelopathy at his neck – both caused by spinal cord compression – Melvyn began a path of conservative treatment.
MRI scans at an acute hospital confirmed the diagnosis, and orthopedic specialists recommended physiotherapy to manage his symptoms.
Double Cancer Diagnosis Shakes Him
Late 2023 brought unexpected news – Melvyn was diagnosed with prostate cancer.
While this was a shock, a further round of tests in early 2024 uncovered a more complex battle ahead: neuroendocrine tumors (NETs) that had spread aggressively to his liver, bones, spine and lymph nodes in three regional areas – the colon, pancreas tail, and left kidney.
This dual diagnosis was not only medically complex but emotionally overwhelming.
“The hardest part was the uncertainty,” Melvyn recalls.
“The doctors had to run so many scans and biopsies before confirming the second cancer. I felt anxious and depressed.”
What added to Melvyn’s stress were the cumulative effects of the cancer drug treatment, which caused him to be in a constant state of fatigue and low energy.
It was during this difficult period that Melvyn’s son introduced him to a compassionate family physician at St Luke’s Community Clinic, who recommended Melvyn to go for pastoral care counselling.
This support soon became a crucial pillar in Melvyn’s recovery journey.
Support Beyond Medicine
At St Luke’s Hospital, Melvyn received a comprehensive range of care, including regular medical check-ups, diabetic management, day rehabilitation, and access to the hospital’s gym facilities – all of which supported his overall health and mobility.
Equally important was the emotional and spiritual support provided through pastoral care counselling, which helped him navigate the mental strain of his medical journey.
“Melvyn was referred to counselling because he was feeling anxious about his health while waiting for a series of diagnostic test results,” shares Winston Tay, his pastoral counsellor.
“The uncertainty – especially when some results were inconclusive – made it very challenging for him emotionally and mentally. Pastoral care provided a patient listening ear where he could openly discuss what he was going through.”
Winston worked closely with Melvyn to build his understanding of stress and anxiety, introducing practical coping strategies such as breathing techniques and thought replacement exercises.
As Melvyn grew more self-aware of how he was reacting to his situation, he began managing his anxieties more effectively.
His mood also lifted once he received clearer diagnoses and could take active steps toward managing his condition.
“Throughout this journey, Melvyn was proactive in working closely with doctors and therapists, building a trusting partnership,” Winston adds.
“This collaboration helped us better understand his thoughts and feelings, allowing us to tailor the support and services to his needs.”
Message of Hope and Positivity
Today, Melvyn’s story is one of cautious optimism. His cancer treatments are showing promising results, and he hopes to continue this path.
To others facing similar health battles, Melvyn offers heartfelt advice: “Stay positive and don’t panic. Follow your doctor’s advice. Do the things you love. Most importantly, exercise and eat right. It really makes a difference.”
