"When I first experienced pain in my left leg, my family doctor told me it was only an inflammation.  But the pain got so bad that it kept me up at night. After an MRI scan, I was diagnosed with osteosarcoma, a form of bone cancer.  

I lost a lot of my independence and found it hard that my life was turned upside down. I was in so much pain from the many rounds of chemotherapy and surgery. I felt terrified and helpless.  But the support of my family and friends has helped me stay strong and positive.  My mother quit her job to look after me, and my dad cooked for me while I was in the hospital.  My 15-year-old sister has been doing her best to cheer me up.  My group of friends even shaved their heads with me!

I have since returned to school, and am enjoying every minute of it. I hope to become a doctor in the future to help young cancer patients like myself."

Chong Hui Min
Student
Former patient at Singapore General Hospital

Ms Chong is one of the winners of the Singapore Health Inspirational Patient and Caregiver Award 2016.

Tags: IPCA2016