Camp Quality Hong Kong

Friends of Camp Quality

Camper Mak Hong Yuen

Hello everyone, I am called Mak Hong Yuen. I come from a normal family with two gorgeous sisters and a pair of wonderful and supportive parents. I am 17 years old, currently in F4 only because as result of my treatment, I developed learning disabilities, which meant I fall badly behind at school.

I have been off treatment for over two years now, however memories of my treatment felt like it only happened yesterday. I was diagnosed with a brain tumor when I was around 11 years old. After two very intense years of chemotherapy, radiotherapy, surgery and a bone-marrow transplant, I have managed to recover and share with you all my experience.

After my diagnosis, Life changed dramatically in almost every way. I felt I had lost everything, in terms of a normal childhood, changes to my physical appearance and my education. During that time, I felt extremely lonely and isolated and the therapy was a nightmare, I had to endure side effects such as nausea, vomiting and hair loss.

My mother’s life also abruptly changed, the hospital became her new workplace. She grew stronger as a result of my illness and would go to incredible lengths to console me and encourage me during my time in hospital. I can vividly recall her telling me at my lowest point; “Don’t think you’re the worst one, there will be someone ever more less fortunate than you”. This may sound like a very simple statement to others but from that, I could see light in darkness. It helped me to forget about the discomfort of the therapy and overcome all the pain I was experiencing.

I learned some important things from my experience; to never give up, to always keeping trying. I know now that I can face anything since I beat cancer and I am very proud of myself for facing it and surviving. I am extremely grateful to my school for being so understanding and supportive and keeping me connected with class. Of-course, last but not the least to Camp Quality Hong Kong for bringing sunshine, hope and laughter to a group of children like me.

Finally, I hope that everyone will have a positive approach to life and maintain optimal health. Thank you.

Note: The original article was written in Chinese but translated for the benefit of our English readers.