"We are facing cancer together”
As a young man, Ricky Chiu led a life of indulgence. “I was a heavy smoker, heavy drinker and did no exercise at all. I did not take care of my diet,” he recounted.
He only discovered the toll this took on his body in 1997, when he was diagnosed with larynx cancer. Then 43 years old, the news left him very sad. “I felt like I was trapped in a room with four walls, with no exit,” he has said in a previous interview.
He underwent radiation and chemotherapy, which resulted in painful side effects. It was a hospital nurse who encouraged him to seek out the New Voice Club, a support group by the Singapore Cancer Society (SCS) for those affected by laryngeal cancer.
Fast forward several decades, Ricky – who is now 69 years old – has been described by SCS as a “key person holding the fort” at New Voice Club. Not only has Ricky been actively involved in the Club for close to 30 years, he stepped up as its Chairman in 2014, a role he has held since.
Beginning of his Journey
Ricky’s cancer journey was marked by difficulties. Besides the physical toll of the treatment, he lost his job and faced financial burdens. Thankfully, his hospital’s social department stepped up to help him clear his medical bills.
“I told myself, if I can conquer and win the battle, then I must do something for society,” Ricky said.
Not only did Ricky turn around his lifestyle – he now advises regular exercise and a good diet – he has actively contributed back through the New Voice Club to help other cancer patients.
He befriends fellow patients through home visits or phone calls and helps organise outings and events. New Voice Club members also have meals together after speech therapy sessions. Describing them as a “big family,” he says proudly that all the members work together hand in hand.
For those battling cancer, he advised having faith in one’s self and wholehearted determination. He also stressed this important message: “Cancer patients do not face this [journey] alone. We are facing this altogether.”