Cancer Story - Noble Ng
How do you know about Maggie’s Centre?
I was diagnosed with colorectal cancer in 2016. I experienced rectal bleeding for 4 to 5 months and decided to have a colonoscopy check-up. The result showed that I had stage three colorectal cancer, which needs surgery and chemotherapy treatment. I then completed my surgery at a private hospital. My friend told me to continue my chemotherapy treatment at a public hospital because the cost is lower. I then turned to Tuen Mun Hospital to follow my case. During my visit to Tuen Mun Hospital, while my wife and I were waiting for doctor’s consultation, we saw some Maggie’s Centre’s leaflets at the Oncology Department. We were curious and therefore we went to Maggie’s Centre to have a look.
Can you tell us about your experience at Maggie’s Centre?
The environment is very relaxing and I always feel myself at home. The staff and users here are warm and friendly. I joined the “Getting started support group” to learn more about the support services and programmes offered at Maggie’s Centre, which was particularly useful for new comers. I also joined many other programmes like Doctor’s talk, meditation and yoga class etc. From which, I learned different ways to manage my illness and adjust my emotions.
I find the monthly “Colorectal cancer support group” particularly helpful. I got the chance to speak with people who had experienced similar situation and could get professional advice from oncology nurses. People who joined this support group were at different stages, some were newly diagnosed, some were undergoing treatments, and some had already finished treatment. We always share our own experience, treatment information, possible side effects and even challenges in our daily lives. They were all very supportive and I am glad that I have built up a close relationship with them.
Can you tell us the most challenging moment along your cancer journey?
The most challenging moment for me was after I completed the surgery, I knew that I had to take chemotherapy. But there were too much unknowns, and it reminded me that the conditions of one of my friends who was diagnosed with cancer two years before my diagnosis fluctuated from time to time. Therefore, I was extremely frightened and worried that my physical condition was not strong enough for me to endure the entire treatment. Maggie’s Centre helped me a lot and I am very grateful for the company and unconditional love of my wife to walk through the difficult time with me. I was impressed and touched when she quitted her job to take care of me. I want to thank her for making my cancer journey less unbearable.
Any advice you would like to give to people affected by cancer including their family?
Don't be afraid or shy to open up and talk to people about your worries and frustration. Even just one or two friends who can listen to your story will be good enough, because this is an effective way for us to express our emotions and sweep away our negativity. When you started to share, no matter it is good news or bad news, you will immediately feel relieved.
Anyone you would like to thank?
I would like to thank my family especially my wife for always standing by me, and staffs and friends at Maggie’s Centre, also doctors and nurses who took great care of me throughout the treatment. Moreover, I would like to thank all of you for listening to my sharing. I hope it can help raise awareness and invite more people to support the great work of Maggie’s Centre. Your kindness and generosity will certainly help more people like me to live through and beyond their cancer journey. Thank you!