Three years ago, Irene Ho received news that would change her life.
The single mum of three was diagnosed with stage four breast cancer and learnt that she might only have three to six months to live.
Now, 50-year-old Irene has long surpassed that given timeline and continues to make the most of each day — with her progress even surprising her doctor.
Despite what some may think, her biggest concern wasn’t dying. It was the thought if leaving behind her three children and elderly parents, she told Lianhe Zaobao in an interview published on Tuesday (Nov 3).
It all started in July 2023, when Irene discovered a small lump in her left breast. At the time, she put a health check-up on hold as she was busy at work and her company was short-staffed.
It was only when the lump grew and pain worsened that she finally sought medical attention.
By then, the cancer had already spread to her bones.
The diagnosis took an emotional toll on Irene, who struggled to come to terms with her condition during the first month. She even sought legal assistance to draw up a will and prepared for her own funeral, the Chinese daily reported.
Irene later found the strength to carry on, thanks to the support from her family and friends.
“Since it has already happened, I can only accept it. Life has to go on,” she told Zaobao.
She also reminded herself to remain strong and embrace every aspect of life.
Even now, Irene is reluctant to let the condition affect much of her daily life.
She opted for a treatment plan that includes oral medication and injections, which costs up to a thousand every month, the Chinese daily reported. She had made the choice as it allowed her more flexibility and would not impact her work as much.
Irene, however, still experiences side effects such as nausea, severe skin reactions, bone stiffening and weakening, as well as issues with her finger joints.
Despite the discomfort, the mother of three remains committed to her job, sometimes heading to the clinic for treatment in the morning before returning to work in the afternoon.
Irene’s determination to not let the illness get her down also translates into other aspects of her life — she makes a conscious effort to face each day with a smile and spend time with her loved ones despite feeling unwell.
And while the road ahead remains uncertain, she has chosen not to dwell on it.
“A smooth journey has never been guaranteed in life. Some paths may be steep and filled with many uncertainties, but how I overcome the obstacles ahead, not dwell too much on the next day and live each day to the fullest and happiest, it’s entirely up to me,” Irene said.
AsiaOne has reached out to Irene for comment.
Breast cancer in Singapore
Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women in Singapore, with 13,935 cases diagnosed between 2019 and 2023, the 2023 Singapore Cancer Registry Annual Report showed.
1 in 12 women is likely to develop breast cancer in their lifetime, according to National Cancer Centre Singapore.
Early detection is key in treating breast cancer.
Eligible Singapore citizens aged 50 to 74 years old can undergo subsidised breast cancer screening every two years under the Healthier SG screening programmes.
Women aged 40 to 49 years old are also eligible if recommended by doctors.
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carol.ong@asiaone.com
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