One would hardly imagine that the cheerful and chatty Mdm Yew Kim Lee once endured a week without food, surviving on just half a cup of liquid.
Late last year, what started as a growing mass in her stomach progressed to severe swelling in her lower limbs and abdomen. At one point, her stomach swelled to an alarming size, holding more than four litres of fluid. Frequent hospital visits led to a devastating diagnosis: stage 3 ovarian cancer.
After surgery and multiple rounds of chemotherapy, the 57-year-old lost her strength and all her hair.
“My intestines were blocked, and a nasogastric tube was inserted to drain the undigested fluids. I was so hungry but couldn’t eat or drink,” Mdm Yew recalled.
When she was admitted to St Luke’s Hospital (SLH), the multidisciplinary team in Ward 3D focused on strengthening her through rehabilitation and optimising her nutrition to prepare her for another round of cancer treatment.
With the help of Principal Dietitian Serene Tay, who provided diet modifications and nutritional supplements, Mdm Yew regained her appetite and weight, enabling her to eat soft foods such as steamed egg, fish, and bread.
As Physiotherapists supported her through every step, Mdm Yew progressed from stiff marches with swollen limbs to standing and walking short distances. In preparation for her discharge home, Occupational Therapists practised daily routines with her, such as fetching water and washing dishes. They also referred her to a Day Rehabilitation Centre near her flat for continued support.
With a smile on her face, Mdm Yew added, “In my three weeks here, the staff have been very patient, and I’m thankful for all their help. I believe that I will get better.”
