Hong Yuen's Story
- A story of Hope and Courage
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.
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