Merry Christmas

HO HO HO

MERRY CHRISTMAS

CHEERS

My latest update

Dearest buddies,

I am doing great. My vision had improved (able to see newspaper as normal vision but if see further like TV then still got double vision).

My last Doctor appointment was on 5th December 2007 seeing ENT specialist Dr Koay - result was very good, next appointment for Oncology Dr Matin Mellor is 26th January 2008 and ENT Dr Koay is on 27th February 2008.

In certain day, I will feel gloomy for a while (normally for about 5 minutes) then I will switch back to being happy. It is not easy but I can live with it (cos I position myself on the positive side).

I am still targeting myself back to work in January 2008, hopefully I will achieve my goals.

Lately I had not been going out regularly and I also did not ask you all out for lunch or dinner (you know when you are back to normal then you tend to feel obliged to ask ..... that's how I feel). Don't worry, by next year 2008, you all will see a different Michael Gan.

Cheers.
Michael Gan

How am I doing since I finish my treatment?

Well, things had been improving slowly and thank God, everything is fine for me. Every 2 months I will go for my ENT checkup at Sunway Hospital seeking Dr Koay expertise – so far so good. Every 3 months I also go for my Oncology checkup at Subang Jaya Medical Centre seeking Dr Matin Mellor expertise – same result, so far so good.

I am still experiencing double vision (so driving is an issue for me at the moment), pimples (as my body is still very heaty), constipation (on and off, under control), my left thigh pain (seems to reduce after sleepig on the B-Ion mattress), dry mouth (still need to drink a lot of water) and last but not least still getting sponsorship from MPlan for their Miki Prune Extract and Miki Protein as supplement.

Cheers.
Michael Gan

Which treatment to choose

I went thru numerous type of Chinese medication and spiritual healing but it does not cure me..... maybe I'm not fated with these types of treatments (because it cures other).

Sometime around July06, I had not make up my mind about going for chemotherapy and radiotherapy yet, because I'm scared and do not had the confident of going thru as I had bad experience (my mom had cervix cancer and she suffers from it).

Luckily my friend introduces me to "Abang" again and I went to seek his help (this time). By talking to him, it provide me the courage and meaning of fighting spirit which I had all this while.

This is my turning point and I never look back, with "Abang" guidance.

Before I went for my final scan in May07, I went to see "Abang" 1st and he had declared that I'm already cancer free and it does not spread to any other location.

True enough, the PET-scan result show that there is no active cancer cell anymore.

On 17th June 2007, I went to look for a young banana tree as requested by "Abang". It is meant for final ritual that's to chop off the banana and throw into the river - this is to avoid recurrence of the cancer. I done it and there won’t be a recurrence for my nose cancer.

GOD BLESSES EVERYONE.
My comment: Whichever treatment that you chose, you must have the confidence and for my case I had the guidance from "Abang"

Interview myself

Interview Michael Gan (yes you are right, I interview myself)
When I know I got cancer, I’m stun, my mind was blank, the question like why me? If I remember correctly I was down for about a week whereby I was not able to sleep properly throughout the night, will wake up occasionally.
I told myself that since GOD had chosen me to have cancer, so I accepted the FACT.
Friends and close one start to share about products and Chinese medicine, how do I feel? Sure or not this product or Chinese medicine can cure me, must go and see personally.
Throughout my treatment, I realized that I was very conscious about the treatment I choose and I had confident for each treatment I chose.
Of course, I’m scared myself. All my life I had never seen so much blood coming out from me. The burn around my neck (during my radiotherapy treatment).
The pain on my head is so unbearable until I knock my head against the wall.
I know that I was very emotional and sensitive and I believe this make my close one in a difficult situation to communicate with me.
When I choose to go for chemotherapy and radiotherapy, I was very down and very frightened whereby I had this feeling that I will not make it. It is like the end of the world for me.
After seeking “Abang” help, I was reenergize to full confident and ready for the final battle against my cancer.
I am now cancer free because I have the support from my family, close one and friends, my prayer to GOD is received, “Abang” blessing and advise, my fighting spirit and chemotherapy and radiotherapy.

How to care and support a cancer patient

Today I want to share about how you can provide the care and support to cancer person. What I am about to write is based on my experience:-

I'll put it in point form:-
1) When I was diagnose with cancer.
My mind was blank, stun, depress, why me? "devil" begining to whisper in my mind.
Go for 2nd opinion, share with your friends, I get a lot of advice from my friends. By doing so, some friend can even provide their experience on what's best for us, how their friend had went thru the treatment, how to overcome the side effect.
2) Accept the fact that I am the chosen one.
I share openly with you all and that make the different. If the cancer patient is willing to share then he/she had accepted the fact, meaning he/she is ready for the battle to overcome cancer.
3) How to show care and support to a cancer patient?
Do not separate the cutlery, this will show sign that he/she is unwanted or feel isolated.
For me, as a bachelor, I'm use to eating alone but for a family, it is best that we eat together. Eat healthily together using olive oil, organic food, steam fish and less meat. Exercise together, by going for morning walk at the park, feeling the fresh air and practice some gi gong together. Talk or chit chat more with cancer patient, by doing so they will start sharing and maybe will let us know how he/she feels and he/she will never feel loneliness. I experience this myself but for me it is different because I'm damn positive so I overcome it myself by calling, emailing and sharing with you all.
4) Talk to people like Hospis Malaysia or any other charitable organization - they had the experience to advise us what to do next.
When I was down, I don't know who to talk to.
5) Monetary term is the 1st thing that a cancer patient is worry about.
Thank you all for all the donations that you all had shower to me (this help on my daily expenses), I'm lucky to know you all. Luckily I had bought critical illnesses insurance policy (this help on my medical bills). I had use about RM20k for chinese medicine, RM90k for western medicine and RM40k for travelling and food. This is a lot of money and I consider myself very lucky as I do not have to worry about the money.

What I had written above is based on how I had experienced it and it work for me; I hope it will come handy to other cancer patient.

Cheers.
Michael Gan

Part 50

Date: Sat, 19 May 2007 23:03:11 -0700 (PDT)
From: "Michael Gan"
Subject: Chronicle of Michael Gan Part 50
To: "Alicia Yeap", "Angie Chua", "BK", "Dennis Gan", "Emily Wong", "Frank Liang", "Ho Wai Chun", "Iris Ho", "Jimmy Lim", "JO GAN", "Kevin Soo", "Leslie Chong", "Lim Kian Soon", "Sherynn Ong", "Yee Mei"
CC: "Alvin Soo", "Eric Ng", "Florence", "Guruprasad", "Henry Foo", "Jee Lan Foo", "Joey Phua Guat Choo", "Julie Gan", "Kah" <, "Karen Voon", "Lau Mun", "Pastor Mark", "Yeap Chong Boon", "Annie Chai/Ikea_kl", "WJ Chan", "Syven Chee Shok Ching", "Emily Wong", "Wong Fe Lian", "Suzanne Tan Saw Hiean", inania, "Tan Yap Khim", "jim_kow", "Jeffery Lim", "Lye Pei Ling", "Agnes Rajamanny A/P Mariampill", "Ngo Kwai Meng", mtanch, "Nancy Peng", "Angie Ng", "Josephine Ong", "Owen Ang Heng Oon", pek-mei.yoon, phingwc, "Joyce Tham", wlchan

Dearest buddies,

I'm alive and now a new born person. It's a hell of experience for me and I would like to share with you all. I would like to say thank you to "Abang" whom convinced me to go for western treatment and tell me to had faith in me and my God - Kuan Yin. "Abang" told me that if I go thru the western treatment, I can be cured and ask me to pray to my God and drink his prayer holy water, he will also pray to his God for my recovery. "Abang" had the ability to see thru me (like x-ray) that my cancer cell is at my nose portion. Prior to me going for the PET-SCAN, "Abang" had done a scan on me and said I'm cancer free after my western treatment. There's no miracle here or magic here, what "Abang" did was to give me the will power and courage to battle against my cancer cell. Without the will power, one will lose the battle before the battle begins. During this period, he asked me to drink a lot of water and his holy water, eat the banana skin (pisang emas) and eat healthily. I follow all his advice and I'm now on my remission, a new journey for me.

Next will be how much I paid “Abang”? How many times I see him? Do I pay him everytime I see him? Well, the answer is I only donated RM600 (USD157) to his mosque, bought some cigarrettes for him (less than 10 packs), ice-cream for his kids and a hamper worth RM150 (USD39) for Hari Raya. I see him more than 15 times and collected holy water bless by him many times.

This is all about a person belief, one must believe on their own God and ownself otherwise "Abang" also cannot give further advice. Cancer patient must accept that he/she is the CHOSEN one (my favourite phrase).

I'm fortunate that I was also introduce to Miki Prune Extract and Miki Protein as my supplement (it works well for me - it might not work well for other people - please take note). With this supplement, I don't lose much weight and appetite, in fact I gain weight during my chemotherapy, and I only lose 8 kg during my radiotherapy. It's not cheap, it will cost me about RM600/month (USD157) but I consider myself fortunate, I got six month sponsorship from their company.

Thank you all and cheers.
Michael Gan
My comment: Faith, will power, courage, accepts the fact, sharing, support from close one and friends are the way to my recovery.

Part 49

Date: Sat, 5 May 2007 20:23:16 -0700 (PDT)
From: "Michael Gan"
Subject: Chronicle of Michael Gan Part 49
To: "Alicia Yeap", "Angie Chua", "BK", "Dennis Gan", "Emily Wong", "Frank Liang", "Ho Wai Chun", "Iris Ho", "Jimmy Lim", "JO GAN", "Kevin Soo", "Leslie Chong", "Lim Kian Soon", "Sherynn Ong", "Yee Mei"
CC: "Alvin Soo", "Dorothy", "Eric Ng", "Florence", "Guru", "Henry Foo", "Jesvinderjit", "Joey Phua Guat Choo", "Julie Gan", "Kah", "Lau Mun", "Pastor Mark", "Reno baskoro", "Tiger", "Yeap Chong Boon", "Annie Chai/Ikea_kl", "WJ Chan", "Syven Chee Shok Ching", "Emily Wong", "Wong Fe Lian", "Suzanne Tan Saw Hiean", inania, "Tan Yap Khim", "jim_kow", "Jeffery Lim", "Lye Pei Ling", "Agnes Rajamanny A/P Mariampill", "Ngo Kwai Meng", mtanch, "Nancy Peng", "Angie Ng", "Josephine Ong", "Owen Ang Heng Oon", pek-mei.yoon, phingwc, "Joyce Tham", wlchan

Dearest buddies,

I'm in a very happy and jovial mood since yesterday morning after collecting my scan report and seeing Dr Matin Mellor at 11am yesterday. I did my PET-SCAN on 4/5/07 at Wijaya International Medical Centre and collected the report - below is the extract of my report:-

Date : 4 May 2007

PET CT WHOLE BODY SCAN

Dear Dr Matin Mellor Adullah
Thank you for referring Mr Gan Ing Leong

INDICATION

Locally advance NPC.

REPORT

Positron emission tomography (PET) scan, coupled with a correlative non-contrast CT scan was performed from the base of the skull to the upper thighs at 60 minutes after intravenous administration of 14.4 mCi of F-18 Fluorodeoxyglucose. CT data was used for attenuation correction and anatomical localization. Oral gastrograffin, oral valium and intra-venous lasix were given. Fasting blood glucose = 5.2 mmol/l.

FINDINGS

There is normal phsiologic localization of FDG in the brain, neck, heart, tonsils, kidneys and bladder.
Normal neck anatomy. Normal thyroid gland. No lymphadenopathy seen.
There is a fibrosis in the left apex of the lung. No hypermetabolic lesion in the lung to suggest any lung metastasis.
Normal mediastinum. No signs of lymphadenopathy.
Nornal liver parenchyma. No hypermetabolic lesion noted. There is a small G.B calculus.
There is no focus of abnornal FDG uptake in the bones to suggest the presence of tumour.

CONCLUSION

No hypermetabolic FDG avid lesion in the post-nasal space to suggest any residual or recurrence.
No evidence of FDG avid metastatic lymphadenopathy.
No abnormal distant metastasis.
Small G.B calculus.

Based on the above report and the PET scan result, Dr Mellor said that the result is extremely good and ask me to consult him in the next 3 month (ie 4th August 07). Dr Mellor also asks me to go and consult my ENT specialist (anytime next week) to check on my left side hearing and my double vision.

I would like to express my sincere thanks to everyone for your support and care, without you all, I would not had recovered so fast - A BIG THANK YOU TO ALL OF YOU. Now, I need to strengthen my body (especially my hand and leg - which I occasionally feel numb) - by doing walking exercise and start back my Xi Gong exercise.

As you all know, I had been joining Hospis Malaysia Cheras daycare program lately - every Tuesday (except Public Holiday), to mingle with other “chosen one” and providing each other supports. As for the treasure hunt, wow, my team was the top 15 and we got ourself some prizes (not bad leh, for a starter). The experience I gain is the fun and team building of the team member, which is important.

I'm so so so happy and now I'm looking forward to my recovery of my double vision and also looking forward to join you all back in the corporate world.

See you all soon, cheers.
Michael Gan
My comment: I am a reborn new baby.

Part 48

Date: Sun, 15 Apr 2007 20:47:46 -0700 (PDT)
From: "Michael Gan"
Subject: Chronicles of Michael Gan Part 48
To: "Alicia Yeap", "Angie Chua", "BK", "Dennis Gan", "Emily Wong", "Frank Liang", "Ho Wai Chun", "Iris Ho", "Jimmy Lim", "JO GAN", "Kevin Soo", "Leslie Chong", "Lim Kian Soon", "Sherynn Ong", "Yee Mei"
CC: "Alvin Soo", "Dorothy", "Eric Ng", "Florence", "Jesvinderjit", "Joey Phua Guat Choo", "Julie Gan", "Kah", “Lau Mun", "Pastor Mark", "Tiger", "Yeap Chong Boon", "Annie Chai/Ikea_kl", "WJ Chan", "Syven Chee Shok Ching", "Emily Wong", "Wong Fe Lian", "Suzanne Tan Saw Hiean", inania, "Tan Yap Khim", "jim_kow", "Jeffery Lim", "Lye Pei Ling", "Agnes Rajamanny A/P Mariampill" <, "Ngo Kwai Meng", mtanch, "Nancy Peng", "Angie Ng", "Josephine Ong", "Owen Ang Heng Oon", pek-mei.yoon, phingwc, "Joyce Tham", wlchan Dearest buddies, My appointment for PET scan is set on 4th May 07 9.30am and should be seeing Dr Mellor on 5th May07. Lately I had started taking rice (most of the times, still on porridge) because still lack of saliva. A bit of correction from my earlier mail - my taste is not 100% back to normal - certain taste I cannot taste the different. One taste for sure I did not lose it is spicy, which I still cannot take at the moment cos it feels like volcano errupt in my mouth.

I had joined Hospis Malaysia day care program where we went for a movie on 4th April - Mr Bean - there was around 20+ of us and about 15+ volunteers. My 2nd visit was on 10th April where Ms Irene (volunteer) comes and picks me and 2 others up at 9am and reach Hospis at about 10am and we had our breakfast. Ms Irene prepare "california roll" especially for me as a welcome meal, I feel so touch. Then we had some exercise, self introduction and on that day Hospis was launching their 6th Charity Treasure Hunt 21/22 April07. Their respective sponsors were there (ie. Spansion, MixFM, GulfAir, Hotel Equatorial Melaka - not sure if I missed out any or got the wrong sponsor name). After that was lunch time (1pm), take a short nap then the volunteer will do some foot massage and shoulder massage. At 3.30pm we had our tea break - we had barley, choc cake and kuih, follow with a game of bingo where prizes were given away - so much fun.

I'll be joining them for the hunt (had not done this before in my entire life, so why not). This week day care is on Thursday (which I will join in also), cos I got to mingle with other "CHOSEN ONE".

That is all for the time being.


(This portion was added on 22nd October 2007)
I went to visit Abang 1 week before my PET SCAN and was told that my cancer cell is all clear. Of course, when I heard it myself, I told myself in my heart, sure or not because I remember that Dr Matin Mellor told me after my sixth cycle of chemotherapy that my tumour is very big and I also told Dr Matin Mellor that he must cure me as it is the challenge for him and another reason I did not do my treatment in 2005 is because I want to give him a bigger challenge. That time Dr Matin Mellor told me the chances of recovering is only around 20% and almost 0% that my double vision will be back to normal.


Cheers.
Michael Gan
My comment: After joining Hospis Day Care, I feel much happier and livelier and was also touch with the care and support provided by Hospis staff and volunteers. A big thank you.

Part 47

Date: Fri, 23 Mar 2007 22:57:26 -0700 (PDT)
From: "Michael Gan"
Subject: Chronicle of Michael Gan Part 47
To: "Alicia Yeap", "Alvin Soo", "Angie Chua", "BK", "Dennis Gan”, "Emily Wong", "Frank Liang", "Ho Wai Chun", "Iris Ho", "Jimmy Lim", "JO GAN", "Kevin Soo", "Leslie Chong", "Lim Kian Soon", "Sherynn Ong", "Yee Mei"
CC: "Dorothy", "Eric Ng", "Florence", "Guru", "Henry Foo", "Jesvinderjit", "Julie Gan", "Kah", "Pastor Mark", "Tiger", "Yeap Chong Boon", "Annie Chai/Ikea_kl", "WJ Chan", "Syven Chee Shok Ching", "Emily Wong", "Wong Fe Lian", "Suzanne Tan Saw Hiean", inania, "Tan Yap Khim", "jimKow", "Jeffery Lim", "Lye Pei Ling", "Agnes Rajamanny A/P Mariampill", "Ngo Kwai Meng", mtanch, "Nancy Peng", "Angie Ng", "Josephine Ong", "Owen Ang Heng Oon", pek-mei.yoon, phingwc, "Joyce Tham", wlchan

Dearest buddies,

I'm in tip top form (meaning I'm beginning to take edible food such as noodles and porridge and I should be consuming rice sometime next week) at the moment as I didn't loss my taste (my mouth is still very dry - less saliva) and I'm maintaining my weight around 74.4kg

Today I had my doctor appointment, Dr Mellor advise me to go for PET-SCAN at Wijaya International Medical Centre (will cost me around RM7K - will be cover under my insurance) sometime around 1st week of May 07 - this will give a better picture of my situation and what will be my next treatment.

I was invited by SJMC to participate in their NPC Support Group discussion on 29/3/07 - to share my experience on how I had went thru the chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Too bad, they did not supply transport (to and fro - which will cost around RM25 (USD 6) via taxi), so I had to choose not to go.

Every week, a Hospis volunteer, Irene, will visit me to chat with me about my progress and making sure that I'm positive all the time. She even suggested that I visit their Hospis day care - to mingle with other guests and had fun there.

Time for me to take my afternoon nap, share with you all soon.

Cheers.
Michael Gan
My comment: As I am not able to eat, I make sure I drink healthily.

Part 46

Date: Sun, 4 Mar 2007 16:49:27 -0800 (PST)
From: "Michael Gan"
Subject: Chronicles of Michael Gan Part 46
To: "Alicia Yeap", "Angie Chua", "BK", "Dennis Gan", "Emily Wong", "Frank Liang", "Ho Wai Chun", "Iris Ho", "Jimmy Lim", "JO GAN", "Kevin Soo", "Leslie Chong", "Lim Kian Soon", "Sherynn Ong", "Yee Mei"
CC: "Alvin Soo", "Dorothy", "Eric Ng", "Guruprasad", "Henry Foo", "Jesvinderjit", "Joey Phua Guat Choo", "Julie Gan", "Kah", "Lau Mun", "Pastor Mark", "Tiger", "Yeap Chong Boon", "Annie Chai/Ikea_kl", "WJ Chan", "Syven Chee Shok Ching", "Emily Wong", "Wong Fe Lian", "Suzanne Tan Saw Hiean", inania, "Tan Yap Khim", "jim_kow", "Jeffery Lim", "Lye Pei Ling", "Agnes Rajamanny A/P Mariampill", "Ngo Kwai Meng", mtanch, "Nancy Peng", "Angie Ng", "Josephine Ong", "Owen Ang Heng Oon", pek-mei.yoon, phingwc, "Joyce Tham", wlchan

Dearest buddies,

Happy belated Chap Goh Mei!!! I had the most unforgettable CNY in my entire life ie. only consuming milk, fruit juice, prune juice, water and morphine liquid - not able to take any solid food at the moment due to the pain on my mouth and throat (I'm still feeling the pain at the moment). My auntie told me to get well soon and she will prepare some of the delicious CNY meals especially for me once I get well (so sweet ... looking forward to that day soon).

I had completed my radiation on 3/3/07 (yip yip hooray) and the burnt I got on my neck had been recuperating very well (no more pain and it's all dried up - changing my skin). No other treatment at the moment until my next appointment with Dr Mellor on 24/3/07. MRI Scan is set 3 month from now.

As for the SOCSO claim, I got it at last - not much as the payment only start from the date I submit my application ie. 19/10/06 till 31/1/07. Total amount is RM4,267.38 – USD 1,123 (just nice to cover the bill for Jan and Feb expenses), from Feb/07 onward I will be getting a cheque for RM1,248 (USD 329) per month as invalidity pension from SOCSO.

That is all for the time being. Wishing you all has a good, prosperous and healthy FIRE PIG year.

Cheers.
Michael Gan
My comment: Live life to the fullest.

Part 45

Date: Wed, 7 Feb 2007 22:37:14 -0800 (PST)
From: "Michael Gan"
Subject: Chronicles of Michael Gan Part 45
To: "Alicia Yeap", "Angie Chua", "BK", "Dennis Gan", “Emily Wong", "Frank Liang", "Ho Wai Chun", "Iris Ho”, "Jimmy Lim", "JO GAN", "Kevin Soo", "Leslie Chong", "Lim Kian Soon", "Pastor Mark", "Yee Mei"
CC: "Dorothy", "Eric Ng", "Florence", "Henry Foo", "Jesvinderjit", "Joey Phua Guat Choo", "Julie Gan", "Kah", "Lau Mun", "Tiger", "Yeap Chong Boon", "Annie Chai/Ikea_kl", "WJ Chan", "Syven Chee Shok Ching", "Emily Wong", "Wong Fe Lian", "Suzanne Tan Saw Hiean", inania, "Tan Yap Khim", "jim_kow", "Jeffery Lim", "Lye Pei Ling", "Agnes Rajamanny A/P Mariampill", "Ngo Kwai Meng", mtanch, "Nancy Peng", "Angie Ng", "Josephine Ong", "Owen Ang Heng Oon”, pek-mei.yoon, phingwc, "Joyce Tham", wlchan

Dearest buddies,

Gong Xi Gong Xi Fa Cai to all of u. I'll be going back to my grandma house on 15/02/07 after my 30th radiation. My next treatment will continue on 26/02/07 till 03/03/07 (completion of my radiation), Dr Mellor did not indicate when I will continue the chemotherapy (maybe after the radiation).

I'm a bit weak now as I 'm not able to consume any solid food, can only go for specialised milk powder, and prune extract plus protein, juices, blended porridge with potatoes and water.

I also attached a picture of me prior to the radiation.

Well, come to think of it I had went thru 25th times of radiation and the experience is that I feel nothing during the treatment, the effect is after the treatment ie. lost of saliva, inflammation in the mouth and throat where I will feel the pain even by drinking water. The worst so far is the day that I got hospitalized because of nose bleeding (non-stop), I had to consume morphine liquid to assist me to sleep (I took for about 1 week). Now I don't take as the pain is bearable.

Hopefully I'll be able to consume solid food during CNY.

Cheers.
Michael Gan
My comment: Even when I am down, I still put on my smiling face.

Part 44

Date: Thu, 18 Jan 2007 04:20:22 -0800 (PST)
From: "Michael Gan"
Subject: Chronicles of Michael Gan Part 44
To: "Alicia Yeap", "Angie Chua", "BK", "Dennis Gan", "Emily Wong", "Frank Liang", "Ho Wai Chun", "Iris Ho", "Jimmy Lim", "JO GAN", "Leslie Chong", "Lim Kian Soon", "Yee Mei"
CC: "Alvin Soo", "Dorothy", "Eric Ng", "Joey Phua Guat Choo", "Julie Gan", "Kah", "Kevin Soo", "Lau Mun", "Pastor Mark", "Tiger", "Yeap Chong Boon", "WJ Chan", "Syven Chee Shok Ching", "Emily Wong", "Wong Fe Lian", "Suzanne Tan Saw Hiean, "Tan Yap Khim", "Lye Pei Ling", "Ngo Kwai Meng", "Nancy Peng", "Josephine Ong", "Owen Ang Heng Oon", phingwc, "Joyce Tham", "Annie Chai/Ikea_kl", inania, "jim_kow", "Jeffery Lim", "Angie Ng", pek-mei.yoon, wlchan

Dearest all,

Wishing all of you a Happy New Year. I had just completed 15 sessions of radiotherapy and 2 cycle of day care chemotherapy. Well, the radiotherapy that I am going thru now is called Varian Smartbeam Integrated High Resolution IMRT Process which is more efficient and had lesser side effect (but not cheap - it cost around RM21k – USD 5,527). Another 20 sessions to go for the radiotherapy and 5 more cycle of chemotherapy. At the moment I'm having problem in consuming food (one of the side effect) - can take this opportunity to reduce weight.

Hopefully the side effect is lesser and main point is to pray for my vision to be back to normal.

(This portion was added on 12th October 2007)
During this treatment, I had nose bleeding after each chemotherapy session. Well, each time the bleeding will stop after 1 or 2 minutes. If I remember correctly, this is when I am beginning to feel the pain in my mouth (a lot of whitish ulcer).

Cheers.
Michael Gan
My comment: I chose to be happy and I make other happy as well.

Part 43

Date: Fri, 15 Dec 2006 07:01:00 -0800 (PST)
From: "Michael Gan"
Subject: Chronicle of Michael Gan Part 43
To: "Alicia Yeap", "Angie Chua", "BK", "Dennis Gan", "Emily Wong", "Frank Liang", "Ho Wai Chun", "Iris Ho", "Jimmy Lim", "JO GAN", "Kevin Soo", "Leslie Chong", "Lim Kian Soon", "Yee Mei"
CC: "Alvin Soo", "Dorothy", "Eric Ng", "Henry Foo", "Jesvinderjit", "Julie Gan", "Kah", "Pastor Mark", "Tiger", "Yeap Chong Boon", "WJ Chan", "Syven Chee Shok Ching", "Emily Wong", "Wong Fe Lian", "Suzanne Tan Saw Hiean", "Tan Yap Khim", "Lye Pei Ling", "Ngo Kwai Meng", "Nancy Peng", "Josephine Ong", "Owen Ang Heng Oon", phingwc, "Joyce Tham", "Annie Chai/Ikea_kl", inania, "jim_kow", "Jeffery Lim", "Angie Ng", pek-mei.yoon, wlchan

Dearest buddies,

I would like to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

I had done the MRI scan on 14/12 and the result show slight improvement compared to last scan and Dr Mellor said my next treatment will be a combination of "accurate" radiotherapy (35 times) and chemotherapy (7 times). I will be checking in to SJMC on 18/12 to do the necessary preparation and will check out on 19/12. The treatment will start on 26/12 for about 7 week as outpatient.

At the moment, I'm experiencing constipation only.

(This portion was added on 10th October 2007)
As usual, Abang remind me to continue all the treatment suggested by my Doctor and also told me that I am progessing very positively. Ask me to continue drinking his blessing water and I can stop taking the banana inner skin and ask me to walk as much as I can.

Cheers.
Michael Gan
My comment: Enjoy every moment of my life.

Part 42

Date: Sun, 3 Dec 2006 04:38:28 -0800 (PST)
From: "Michael Gan"
Subject: Chronicle of Michael Gan Part 42
To: "Alicia Yeap", "Alvin Soo", "Angie Chua", "BK", "Dennis Gan", "Emily Wong", "Frank Liang", "Ho Wai Chun", "Iris Ho", "Jimmy Lim", "JO GAN", "Kevin Soo", "Leslie Chong", "Lim Kian Soon", "Yee Mei"
CC: "Dorothy", "Eric Ng", "Florence", "Joey Phua Guat Choo", "Julie Gan", "Kah", "Pastor Mark", "Tiger", "Yeap Chong Boon", "WJ Chan", "Syven Chee Shok Ching", "Emily Wong", "Wong Fe Lian", "Suzanne Tan Saw Hiean", "Tan Yap Khim", "Lye Pei Ling", "Ngo Kwai Meng", "Nancy Peng", "Josephine Ong", "Owen Ang Heng Oon", phingwc, "Joyce Tham", "Annie Chai/Ikea_kl", inania, "jim_kow", "Jeffery Lim", "Angie Ng", pek-mei.yoon, wlchan

Dearest all,

I had just completed my 6th chemotherapy on the 2nd December 2006, oops I put on another 3kg, I will exercise regularly to lose my weight to somewhere aorund 78 kg, now 83kg.

Dr Mellor reconfirmed that the lump on my neck is completely gone and my next action will be on the 14th December 2006 to do a MRI scan and consult Dr Mellor for the followup treatment (appointment confirm at 11.30am).

As for the SOCSO interview, I will only know the outcome probably by end of this month.

I also went to see my regular dentist and had my teeth cleanse thoroughly, was informed that my gum bleeding is due to improper cleansing of my teeth, ask me to wash my teeth after each meals.

Will keep you all update accordingly.

Cheers.
Michael Gan
My comment: Do what is best for myself.

Part 41

Date: Wed, 8 Nov 2006 05:32:52 -0800 (PST)
From: "Michael Gan"
Subject: Chronicle of Michael Gan Part 41
To: "Alicia Yeap", "Alvin Soo", "Angie Chua", "BK", "Dennis Gan", "Emily Wong", "Frank Liang", "Ho Wai Chun", "Iris Ho", "Jimmy Lim", "JO GAN", "Kevin Soo", "Leslie Chong", "Lim Kian Soon", "Yee Mei"
CC: "Dorothy", "Eric Ng", "Florence", "Guruprasad", "Henry Foo", "Jesvinderjit", "Joey Phua Guat Choo", "Julie Gan", "Kah", "Pastor Mark", "Yeap Chong Boon", "WJ Chan", "Syven Chee Shok Ching", "Emily Wong", "Wong Fe Lian", "Suzanne Tan Saw Hiean", "Tan Yap Khim", "Lye Pei Ling", "Ngo Kwai Meng", "Nancy Peng", "Josephine Ong", "Owen Ang Heng Oon", phingwc, "Joyce Tham"

Dearest buddies,

I had completed my 5th chemotherapy (same as the previous treatment) and I feel great. Well this round I maintain my weight at 80 kg and I plan to reduce my weight to 75 kg (slowly by doing more exercise). My next treatment will be on 1st December 06.

I will have an interview with SOCSO on the 28th November 2006 1.30pm at Pusat Perubatan Universiti Malaya (UH)..... Anyone free to accompany me!!!

That is all for the time being.

(This portion was added on 26th September 2007)
As usual, went to see Abang after my immune system is back to normal. Abang remind me to continue all the treatment suggested by my Doctor and also told me that I am progessing very positively.

Cheers.
Michael Gan
My comment: Be good to yourself.

Part 40

Date: Thu, 19 Oct 2006 01:40:24 -0700 (PDT)
From: "Michael Gan"
Subject: Chronicle of Michael Gan Part 40
To: "Alicia Yeap", "Alvin Soo", "Angie", "BK", "Dennis Gan", "Emily Wong", "Frank Liang", "Ho Wai Chun", "Iris Ho", "JO GAN", "Leslie Chong", "Lim Kian Soon", "Yee Mei"
CC: "Dorothy", "Eric Ng", "Florence", "Guru", "Henry Foo", "Jesvinderjit", "Joey Phua Guat Choo", "Julie Gan", "Kah", "Kevin Soo", "Lau Mun", "Tiger", "Yeap Chong Boon", "WJ Chan", "Syven Chee Shok Ching", "Emily Wong", "Wong Fe Lian", "Suzanne Tan Saw Hiean", "Tan Yap Khim", "Lye Pei Ling", "Ngo Kwai Meng", "Nancy Peng", "Josephine Ong", "Owen Ang Heng Oon", phingwc, "Joyce Tham", angiepcng, "Annie Chai/Ikea_kl", inania, "jim_kow", "Jeffery Lim", pek-mei.yoon, wlchan

Dearest Buddies,

I just got back from SJMC doing my MRI scan and also proceed with my 4th chemotherapy. I check in on 17/10 for my MRI Scan and Dr Matin Mellor was checking my neck and confirms that the lump is completely gone (thank god). I only got to know the scan result on 18/10..... GOOD NEWS is that the tumour is very much smaller than before and the report also indicates that the shrinkage could be due to radiotherapy (in this case I had not started yet). Dr Mellor said I will undergo another 3 more chemotherapy and then see what the outcome of the MRI is after this round.

Oops, I gain another 1kg now 80kg.

My next session is 7/11/06. Will update you all if got any good news or side effect (eg. bald at the moment, skin very dry, got mouth ulcer).

(This portion was added on 23rd September 2007)
As usual, went to see Abang after my immune system is back to normal. Abang told me to continue all the treatment suggested by my Doctor and also told me that I am progessing very well, everything is under control and I should be cancer free by the time I finish all my treatments. Remind me again to drink his blessing water, eat banana inner skin, and walk as much as I can and avoid crowded places at the moment.

Cheers.
Michael Gan
My comment: Walk my way to a healthy lifestyle.

Part 39

Date: Thu, 28 Sep 2006 02:24:23 -0400 (EDT)
From: "Michael Gan"
Subject: Chronicles of Michael Gan Part 39
To: "Alvin Soo", "Kevin Soo", "Lim Kian Soon", "Yee Mei", "Leslie Chong", "Frank Liang", "Emily Wong", "Dennis Gan", "JO GAN", "Iris Ho", "Alicia Yeap", "Angie", "BK", "Ho Wai Chun"
CC: "Joey Phua Guat Choo", chpottery "Pastor Mark", "Lau Mun", "Eric Ng", "Florence", "Henry Foo", "Jee Lan Foo", "Julie Gan", "Guruprasad", jesreen, jimmyl, "Kah" , "Yeap Chong Boon", "WJ Chan", "Syven Chee Shok Ching", "Emily Wong", "Wong Fe Lian", "Suzanne Tan Saw Hiean", "Tan Yap Khim", "Lye Pei Ling", "Ngo Kwai Meng", "Nancy Peng", "Josephine Ong", "Owen Ang Heng Oon", phingwc, "Joyce Tham", angiepcng, "Annie Chai/Ikea_kl", inania, "jim_kow", "Jeffery Lim", pek-mei.yoon, wlchan

Dearest buddies,

I had just completed my 3rd chemotherapy yesterday and I'm back at home resting. The cycle of the chemotherapy is the same, the only thing is that I had to wait for 5 hours (suprisingly I was cool and do not lose my temper) before I get my bed and started my treatment at 2.30pm. My Doctor was wondering why I had not arrived and was about to call me when the nurse tell Doctor I just got my bed (around 1.30pm). My next appointment will be on 17/10 to do a MRI scan at 10.45am and then Doctor will advise me what the next treatment is.

I'm feeling great after my 3rd chemotherapy, and I gain weight since the 2nd chemotherapy (about 3kg) cos I've been consuming Prune extract (early morning and before sleep), 3 times fruit juices everyday, 2 or 3 times steam kampung chicken soup per week (without the chicken meat), fish, and a lot of vegetables. I drank almost 3 to 3.5 litres of water (Abang blessing water and banana inner skin) everyday and walk around at my house and doing breathing exercise early morning.

I shall update you all accordingly. Be happy and don't worry.

(This portion was added on 12th September 2007)
As usual, went to see Abang after my immune system is back to normal. Told Abang that I gain weight and Abang also notice that my speech had improved and so far so good, everything is under control. Ask me to maintain my weight and cut down on the chicken soup (from 3 to once a week).

Cheers
Michael Gan
My comment: I am not a choosy eater.

Part 38

Date: Thu, 7 Sep 2006 07:21:49 -0400 (EDT)
From: "Michael Gan"
Subject: Chronicle of Michael Gan Part 38
To: "Alvin Soo", "Kevin Soo", "Lim Kian Soon", "Yee Mei", "Leslie Chong", "Frank Liang", "Dennis Gan", "JO GAN", "Iris Ho", "Alicia Yeap", "Angie", "BK", "Ho Wai Chun", "Julie Gan"
CC: "Joey Phua Guat Choo", chpottery, "Pastor Mark", "Eric Ng", "Florence", "Henry Foo", "Jee Lan Foo", "Guruprasad", jesreen, jimmyl, "Kah", "Yeap Chong Boon", "WJ Chan", "Syven Chee Shok Ching", "Emily Wong", "Wong Fe Lian", "Suzanne Tan Saw Hiean", "Tan Yap Khim", "Nancy Peng Swee Lin", "Lye Pei Ling", "Ngo Kwai Meng", "Josephine Ong", "Owen Ang Heng Oon", phingwc, "Joyce Tham", angiepcng, "Annie Chai/Ikea_kl", inania, "jim_kow", "Jeffery Lim", pek-mei.yoon, wlchan

Dearest buddies,

I'm back from my 2nd chemotherapy on 5/9, back home on 6/9. Feel stronger than the 1st time. This time the session is the same as the 1st time with addition of anti-vomitting, anti-gastrik - injected thru the fluid. My 3rd chemotherapy is set on 26/9 then I will do a scan to see whether I can start radiotherapy with chemotherapy or need another round of chemotherapy.

I feel that the lump on my neck is completely shrink and my vision is getting closer and I'm looking forward to the day when I woke up I see a clear vision.

I shall update you all when I had further improvement.

(This portion was added on 7th September 2007)
After 1st chemotherapy, I experience voices whispering and in certain day I am awake and the next thing I find is that I am at my balcony. I quickly switch on my prayer and pray in my heart. This happened after each chemotherapy session (altogether 6th session) when my immune system is at the lowest level. For your information, I experience this after each session and I can’t concentrate on the screen for too long as it seems to be talking to me (if you know what I meant) and that’s why my emails to you all is getting shorter and shorter. Base on my experience the chemotherapy make me feel unconscious and I would like to thanks GOD for waking or bringing my conscious back in time otherwise I will be history.

I went to see “Abang” and he told me I am progressing very well and the cancerous cell did not spread to any other location …. Thanks GOD. Remind me to drink his blessing water, the banana skin, ask me to walk as much as I can and see him after my 3rd chemotherapy.

Cheers.
Michael Gan
My comment: Must be conscious and positive at all times.

Part 37

Date: Fri, 1 Sep 2006 01:33:53 -0400 (EDT)
From: "Michael Gan"
Subject: Chronicle of Michael Gan Part 37
To: "Alvin Soo" , "Kevin Soo" , "Lim Kian Soon" , "Yee Mei" , "Leslie Chong" , "Frank Liang" , "Nancy Peng Swee Lin" , "Emily Wong" , "Dennis Gan" , "JO GAN" , "Julie Gan" , "Iris Ho" , "Alicia Yeap" , "Angie" , "BK" , "Ho Wai Chun"
CC: "Joey Phua Guat Choo" , chpottery, "Pastor Mark" , "Eric Ng" , "Florence" , "Henry Foo" , "Jee Lan Foo" , jesreen, "Kah", angiepcng, "Annie Chai/Ikea_kl" , inania, "jim_kow" , "Jeffery Lim" , pek-mei.yoon, wlchan

Dearest all,

I feel much stronger now after the chemotherapy ... it really drain up my energy and make me feel wanting to sleep and rest only.

For your info, my 2nd chemotherapy date is on 5/9. Well, I drop all my hair and I'm now bald, my appetite is very good now. Good news is the lump on the neck is 90% shrink.

At the moment can only do very light exercise.

(This portion was added on 2nd September 2007)
My appetite is not very good as I don’t feel like eating. My sister, Jo friend’s, Ms Amy Hoh and her son come to visit me to share about her son chronicle. Well, her son was also down with NPC Stage 3 and he had a very painful encounter (he vomit, not able to eat and having painful times). Thank GOD, he is also in remission now. They introduced me a product from MPLAN www.m-plan.com.my (direct selling company) called MIKI Prune Extract and MIKI Protein. His son said it helps him to gain his appetite and after he takes it, he did not vomit anymore and each time he went for chemotherapy, his blood report is always on the good side. I purchased it (cost me RM 346), after I prescribed it base on her advise on the quantity, it help me to detoxify and I also gain back my appetite. Well, this product works well for me but it might not work well for others (ask yourself this question “Does this product help or assist you in any way?”). For me, after taking it, I need to pass motion almost 5 to 6 times per day for almost a week. Currently, I need to pass motion at least 2 times per day (sometime more, depend on what food I take). My appetite improved and I am able to drink smoothly.

Cheers.
Michael Gan
My comment: By SHARING you will get the best information.

Part 36

Date: Wed, 16 Aug 2006 23:40:44 -0400 (EDT)
From: "Michael Gan"
Subject: Chronicle of Michael Gan Part 36
To: "Alvin Soo" , "Kevin Soo" , "Lim Kian Soon" , "Yee Mei" , "Leslie Chong" , "Frank Liang" , "Nancy Peng Swee Lin" , "Emily Wong" , "Dennis Gan" , "JO GAN" , "Julie Gan" , "Iris Ho" , "Alicia Yeap" , "Angie" , "BK"
CC: "Joey Phua Guat Choo" , chpottery, "Pastor Mark" , "Lau Mun" , "Eric Ng" , "Florence" , "Henry Foo" , "Jee Lan Foo" , "Guruprasad" , jesreen, jimmyl, "Kah" , angiepcng, "Annie Chai/Ikea_kl" , inania, "jim_kow" , "Jeffery Lim" , pek-mei.yoon, wlchan

Dearest buddies,

I'm discharged today and back at home now. Feel a bit weak but still feel strong.

A lot of you must have want to ask why I had a sudden change of plan ... well GOD ask me to go fight for it because if I don't go it will be 50/50 chance for me and if I go I'll live longer.

Well, this is the 1st chemotherapy that I went through and the process is as below:
1) 2pm put dehyderation fluid (about 4hrs)
2) 6+pm put another dehyderation fluid (about 4 hrs)
3) 10+pm put chemotherapy (about 2-3 hrs)
4) 3+am put dehyderation fluid (about 4 hrs)
5) 7+am put chemotherapy (about 2-3 hrs)
6) 10+am put dehyderation fluid (about 4 hrs)
7) 2+pm all done

When it put the 2nd chemotherapy, there is a slight pain on my hand but is bearable.

My next appointment to see Dr Matin is on 24/8/06, and then I will know when my 2nd chemotherapy date is.

(This portion was added on 25th August 2007)
My appetite is not very good as I don’t feel like eating. I was asked to rest in the house during this period, the 1st 4 day after the chemotherapy, I will feel ok, the next 5 days is when the immune system is down and I feel lethargic, sleepy and emotional. After the 10th day then I went to see Abang, he told me that I am progressing and coping well and the cancer cell did not spread to any other place. He reminds me to drink his blessing water and take the banana skin everyday. No extra donation or payment is required and he asked me to thank GOD and not him. I respect him as my mentor, he asked me to see him after my 2nd treatment.

Cheers.
Michael Gan
My comment: Must feel STRONG at all time.

Part 35

Date: Sun, 13 Aug 2006 01:29:47 -0400 (EDT)
From: "Michael Gan"
Subject: Chronicles of Michael Gan Part 35
To: "Alvin Soo" , "Kevin Soo" , "Lim Kian Soon" , "Yee Mei" , "Leslie Chong" , "Frank Liang" , "Nancy Peng Swee Lin" , "Emily Wong" , "Dennis Gan" , "JO GAN" , "Julie Gan" , "Iris Ho" , jimmyl, "Angie" , "BK" , "Ho Wai Chun"
CC: "Joey Phua Guat Choo" , chpottery, "Pastor Mark" , "Lau Mun" , "Eric Ng" , "Florence" , "Henry Foo" , "Jee Lan Foo" , jesreen, "Kah" , angiepcng, "Annie Chai/Ikea_kl" , inania, "jim_kow" , "Jeffery Lim" , pek-mei.yoon, wlchan

Dearest buddies,

There's a change of plan, I and my family decided not to go for chemotherapy since the ratio is so low. Furthermore, I personnaly felt improvement on myself after taking the Chinese medicine. My friend also introduced me to another cancer survivor and she told us about her experience and what I should do (she had urterus cancer final stage and Dr say no point of going for chemotherapy ... ask her to go back and enjoy for the next 3 months). It has been 2 years plus already and she survived and is now cancer free. Her pointer is one had to be positive, eat what's suitable and drink the right water. She's supplying me the water for 1 week and I should know the outcome at the end of the week. To update my condition at the end of the week.

(This portion was added on 19th August 2007)
At this point, if I remember correctly, I am very emotional and am totally demoralize as my condition is getting worse. My close friend shared with my sister, Jo about “Abang” again. My family asked me to go since “Abang” had cured someone who also had NPC. This is when I go and seek “Abang” help to treat me. Two of my close friends and my brother, Dennis brought me to “Abang” house in Subang Jaya and I requested personally from “Abang” to help me.

The replied from “Abang” is “OK”, he will guide me and I will need to donate some money for the charity (eg. orphanage, mosque, old folk home or etc.). At this moment, I took out my wallet and I just donate RM 600 (I had RM 1,000 in my wallet). This amount is from my heart and if you ask me why this amount, I also don’t know why.

“Abang” will ask me to sit up firm and he did a “scan” on me and then told me that I had cancer on my nose only. He asked me to undergo all the treatment that I need to undergo from the Doctor. He also asked me what’s my religious, and I told him I pray to God of Mercy. So he told me to go back and pray to my God and on his side he will pray to Allah. He ask me to bring a few bottle of drinking water for him to perform some blessing on it (will take about 4 or 5 days to perform the blessing). I was asked to finish the blessing water after each chemotherapy (approximately 5 bottles of 5 litres each). I was also asked to eat the inner part of the “Pisang Emas” (Gold banana) and the banana is to be in the mid of getting ripe.

“Abang” told me that I will have 50/50 chance if I undergo the chemotherapy and radiotherapy plus his natural treatment. Somehow, his statement triggered my energy level and confident back to very high (or full power).

“Abang” asked me to see him after the chemotherapy and he will advise me accordingly. What I can say is, “Abang” convinced me to go for chemotherapy and provide me the guidance to fight against my cancer.

Cheers.
Michael Gan
My comment: Must be POSITIVE at all time.

Part 34

Date: Thu, 10 Aug 2006 04:25:59 -0400 (EDT)
From: "Michael Gan"
Subject: Chonicle of Michael Gan Part 34
To: "Alvin Soo" , "Kevin Soo" , "Lim Kian Soon" , "Yee Mei" , "Leslie Chong" , "Frank Liang" , "Nancy Peng Swee Lin" , "Emily Wong" , "Dennis Gan" , "JO GAN" , "Julie Gan" , "Iris Ho" , jesreen, jimmyl, "Kah" , "Alicia Yeap" , "Angie" , "BK" , "Ho Wai Chun"
CC: "Joey Phua Guat Choo" , chpottery, "Pastor Mark" , "Lau Mun" , "Eric Ng" , "Florence" , "Henry Foo" , "Jee Lan Foo" , angiepcng, "Annie Chai/Ikea_kl" , inania, "jim_kow" , "Jeffery Lim" , pek-mei.yoon, wlchan

Dearest buddies,

I will start chemotherapy tomorow as I feel very weak now. Hopefully the chemotherapy will make me stronger.

Anyhow I'll be back to continue my Part 35 chronicles after the chemotherapy.

If you need any update about me, please email Dennis Gan (my brother) @ dgik@yahoo.com

(This portion was added on 2nd August 2007)
At this point, I am really very down, feeling very scare, confused, don’t know what to do and already losing my battle before going for chemotherapy (because of my phobia). I don’t know whether I will be able to pull through my treatment.

Cheers.
Michael Gan
My comment: By sharing, it gave me the strength to LIVE ON.

Imaging Report

IMAGING REPORT

Patient : Gan Ing Leong
MRN : 699639
Age/Gender : 40/M
Requesting Doctor : Dr Matin Mellor
Date of Procedure : 7/08/2006

CT CHEST AND ABDOMEN

2 phase axial 8 mm spiral scans were performed from dome of diaphragm down to iliac crest. 8 mm scans were done through the chest during the arterial phase.

Findings:
The lungs are clear.
The vascular mediastinum is unremarkable.
No pleural effusion.

The liver is normal in size and attenuation.
Multiple tiny hypodense foci measuring about 3 to 4 mm are seen in the right lobe.
These are likely to be liver cyst in origin.
No definite focal metastasis.

The gallbladder is well distended.
A small stone measuring 5 mm is seen in the GB neck.
No bile duct dilatation.
The spleen, pancreas, both kidneys and paraaortic areas are unremarkable.
No bowel mass or pleural effusion.

Impression: Small liver cyst.
No obvious evidence of lung and liver metastasis.
Cholelithiasis.

BONE SCAN

Indication:
Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma

Report:
Technetium 99m MDP Whole Body Bone Scan and spot views of the chest reveal only mild tracer increase at the lateral ends of both clavicles. The rest of the skeletal system appears normal.

Impression:
Findings suggest bone changes due to previous trauma rather than metastasis.

Part 33

Date: Tue, 8 Aug 2006 22:32:08 -0400 (EDT)
From: "Michael Gan"
Subject: Chronicle of Michael Gan Part 33
To: "Alvin Soo" , "Kevin Soo" , "Lim Kian Soon" , "Yee Mei" , "Leslie Chong" , "Frank Liang" , "Nancy Peng Swee Lin" , "Emily Wong" , "Dennis Gan" , "JO GAN" , "Iris Ho", "Alicia Yeap" , "Angie" , "BK" , "Ho Wai Chun"
CC: "Joey Phua Guat Choo" , chpottery, "Pastor Mark" , "Lau Mun" , "Eric Ng" , "Florence" , "Henry Foo" , "Jee Lan Foo" , "Julie Gan" , jesreen, jimmyl, "Kah" , angiepcng, "Annie Chai/Ikea_kl" , inania, "jim_kow" , "Jeffery Lim" , pek-mei.yoon, wlchan

Dearest buddies,

I had done the CT Scan on my whole body as well as bone scan and the results was very good (no infection of the cancer to other part of my body).

Below are the facts that I check with Dr Matin Mellor:-
1) What are the chances of curing? Very low (below 10%) and there's a possibility my double vision will remain if the nerve is beyond repair.
2) What is the percentage of controlling my NPC? Approximately 70% to control the growth.
3) How long can I live if I don't go for treatment? Don't dare to say cos it depends on individual.
4) How will my treatment be like? Well, I need to do 3 or 6 chemotherapy (every three week once), after the 3rd chemotherapy, I need to do a scan to see how far it had shrink the tumour then Dr will advise further.

I also went to see another Chinese physician, Dr Wu from Dongya Tumour Specialist Hospital in UE3 complex. Dr Wu ask me to only go for 1 session of chemotherapy to control and with his medicine, he will be able to clear my NPC. I will know in 3 day time frame after I took his medicine. For your info, the medicine cost me RM1,085 (USD 286) for 10 days consumption.

I had decided to for my 1st chemotherapy (maybe this week or early next week) as I need to look for a "maid" or someone to take care of my food and boil my medicine.

Till then I will keep you all update.

Cheers.
Michael Gan
My comment: Courage is the ability to face your fears.

MRI Scan Report - 2nd August 2006

MRI Scan Reports

NAME : GAN ING LEONG

MRN : 00102619

AGE / SEX : 39 / MALE

DATE : 2 AUG-06

MRI OF THE NASOPHARYNX

Axial T1, T2 and coronal T2 followed by contrast enhanced axial and corona T1 SPIR.

There is a large heterogeneously enhancing tumor mass in the nasopharynx with extension into the skull base and both cavernous sinuses (Lt > Rt). The widest diameter is about 6 x 7 cm. There is infiltration of the pituitary fossa. The optic chiasma appears intact. Anteriorly there is infiltration into the Lt maxillary and ethmoid sinuses. Posteriorly there is involvement of the clivus. Bilateral mastoiditis. Lt cervical lymphadenopathy measuring 5.6cm x 3.3cm. There are also multiple smaller Rt cervical lymphadebopathy.

IMP. NPC with base of skull infiltration and cervical lymphadenopathy.

Part 32 - Cancer survivor

Date: Sat, 5 Aug 2006 01:20:47 -0400 (EDT)
From: "Michael Gan"
Subject: Chronicle of Michael Gan Part 32
To: "Alvin Soo" , "Kevin Soo" , "Lim Kian Soon" , chpottery, "Yee Mei" , "Leslie Chong" , frankliang, "Nancy Peng Swee Lin" , "Pastor Mark" , "Eric Ng" , "Emily Wong" , "Henry Foo" , "Jee Lan Foo" , "Dennis Gan" , "JO GAN" , "Julie Gan" , "Iris Ho" , "Kah" , "Alicia Yeap" , "Angie" , "BK" , "Ho Wai Chun"
CC: "Joey Phua Guat Choo" , "Florence" , jesreen, jimmyl, angiepcng, "Annie Chai/Ikea_kl" , inania, "jim_kow" , "Jeffery Lim”, pek-mei.yoon, wlchan

Dearest buddies,

It has been a while since my last email; things had not been smooth for me. My condition had worsened and I’m beginning to feel weak. At times, my emotion took over and I was emotionally down a few times crying. Well I had done the MRI scan and it turn out not in favour of me. For your information, the tumour had grown bigger and thus is affecting my drinking and eating problem (that's what Dr said). I will be doing another CT Scan and Bone scan on Monday at Subang Jaya Medical Centre then I will have an appointment to see Dr Matin Mellor on 8/8 3pm to know what type of treatment is best for me. Till then I will update you all.

(This portion was added on 22nd July 2007)
At this point, I don’t have the energy to write in details about the pain I went through and I also don’t want all my friends to be worry about my condition therefore you only see a paragraph.

Cheers.
Michael Gan
My comment: Never give up.

Part 31 - Cancer survivor

Date: Mon, 3 Jul 2006 08:13:58 -0400 (EDT)
From: "Michael Gan"
Subject: Chronicles of Michael Gan Part 31
To: "Lim Kian Soon" , "Yee Mei" , "Leslie Chong" , "Frank Liang" , "Emily Wong" , "Dennis Gan" , "JO GAN" , "Julie Gan" , "Iris Ho" , "Alicia Yeap" , "Angie", "BK" , "Ho Wai Chun"
CC: "Joey Phua Guat Choo" , "Alvin Soo" , "Kevin Soo" , “chpottery”, "Pastor Mark" , "Eric Ng" , "Florence" , "Henry Foo" , "Jee Lan Foo" , jesreen, "Kah" , angiepcng, "Annie Chai/Ikea_kl" , inania, "jim_kow" , "Jeffery Lim" , pek-mei.yoon, wlchan

Dearest all,

It has been a very challenging last month for me, not able to enjoy the World Cup cos I slept very early but able to see the repeat the next day.

For your information, below are the things that I go thru last month:-
1) On 19/6, I had difficulty in drinking. Cannot drink too fast, because the water I drank will come out thru my right nose.
2) On 21/6, had difficulty in eating rice or noodle and got a few times I almost choked myself but I managed to vomit out the intake. Drinking problem still persist.
3) On 23/6, I can hardly speak and occasionally had coughing.
4) On 25/6, there's improvement on my voice, drinking and eating
5) Of course during this period I managed to finish my meals everyday.
6) On 29/6, went to Haytai, see Uncle Su on 30/6, this trip no medicine for me but I was given a menu for my porridge (everyday) and a soup menu (twice a week). I was told that this will improve my immune system and help to gain back my normal drinking and eating habit.
7) At this moment I'm able to drink 250ml of water non-stop and able to eat faster than before.

Don't worry; I'm still coping with it very positively and there is further improvement on my drinking and eating habit, I'm thinking of going to Pemalang, Indonesia to see Ibu Atun.

For the time being, I can only take porridge or kueh-tau soup. As for my weight, I think I'm about 79 to 80 kg,

My next trip should be either 1 st week of Aug or 2nd wk of Aug..

Cheers.
Michael Gan
My comment: Strong fighting spirit is my character.

Part 30

Date: Sun, 4 Jun 2006 08:06:42 -0400 (EDT)
From: "Michael Gan"
Subject: Chronicle of Michael Gan Part 30
To: "Yee Mei" , "Leslie Chong" , "Frank Liang" , "Alvin Soo" , "Kevin Soo" , "Lim Kian Soon" , "Alicia Yeap" , "Angie" , "Ho Wai Chun" , "Emily Wong" , "Dennis Gan" , "JO GAN" , "Iris Ho"
CC: "Kah", "Lau Mun" , "Eric Ng" , "Joey Phua Guat Choo" , "Florence" , "Henry Foo" , "Jee Lan Foo" , "Julie Gan" , "jesreen" , "angiepcng" , "Annie Chai/Ikea_kl" , "inania", "jim_kow" , "Jeffery Lim" , "pek-mei.yoon" , "Chee SumYeong" , "wlchan"

Dearest all,

I'm back from Haatyai, things are progressing slowly and I personally can feel the effect. This time I need to consume 5 type of medicine ie. numbers 1, 88, 33, 11 & 9. Uncle Su said that my internal organ is very strong now and ask me to bear with the pain on my head as it's clearing the cancer cell on the nerve (that's why it is so painful).

For your info, a group of my leadership program friends bought me a B-ion jade mattress on 22/5 and I had been utilising it, it help to reduce my pain and also help me to sleep better. I can feel that it help to expediate my detoxification as I will sneeze off quite a lot of phlegme (dark + brown) from the left nose.

Good news is that my lump on my neck is shrinking; hopefully it will be fully gone when I go for my checkup.

I'm targeting my next trip to be sometime 6th July 06.

Cheers.
Michael Gan
My comment: When there is a WILL then there is a WAY.

Part 29

Date: Wed, 17 May 2006 01:35:11 -0400 (EDT)
From: "Michael Gan"
Subject: Chronicles of Michael Gan Part 29
To: "Yee Mei" , "Leslie Chong" , "Frank Liang" , "Alvin Soo" , "Kevin Soo" , "Lim Kian Soon" , "Alicia Yeap" , "Angie" , "BK" , "Celine Chin" , "Ho Wai Chun" , "Emily Wong" , "Dennis Gan" , "JO GAN" , "Iris Ho"
CC: "Kah" , "Pastor Mark" , "Lau Mun" , "Eric Ng" , "Joey Phua Guat Choo" , "Florence" , "Henry Foo" , "Jee Lan Foo" , "Julie Gan" , "jesreen" , "angiepcng " , "Annie Chai/Ikea_kl" , "inania" , "jim_kow" , "Jeffery Lim" , "pek-mei.yoon" , "Chee SumYeong" , "wlchan"

Dearest all,

I'm still going strong and I wish to share with you all about the experience that I went thru these couples of week.

For a better picture of my condition, please find below my explanation:-
1) Started Uncle Su medicine from 4th September 2005, the 1st seven month is to strengthen my 5 organ systems ie stomach, lung, kidney, heart and immune system.
2) Started cancer medicine from 15/3/2006 and lately the "migraine" is something that I will never forget because certain time it make me cry and just like someone is knocking on my head.
3) After the medicine I need to drink a lot of water as my mouth feel very dry and around every 2 hours I need to go to toilet. This symptom is very familiar to my friend who had undergone chemotherapy and radiotherapy.
4) To counter this pain, Uncle Su ask me to take porridge with pork meat + pig blood + "kau choy" plus green mung - wow a big round of applause as I had been taking this for the past few weeks ... not easy but I tell myself "got something to eat rather than nothing to eat". It helps to reduce the pain.

Questions that arise during this period:-
1) It is normal to have such a pain? Yes as verified by Uncle Su
2) How long do I need to endure such pain? Maybe a month or 2 depending on my capability
3) Why not go for medical checkup? Target to go on July 06
4) My hearing is getting worse? Uncle Su says that everything will be back to nromal when I'm completely cured. At the moment had to rely on hearing aid.
5) Getting confuses and asking myself will I be cure? I'm looking forward to my recovery and always remind myself each morning that I'm still alive and getting healthier and stronger.

My next trip is confirmed on 1st June 06 and I shall update you all after I'm back.

For your information, my double vision is closing in slowly and hopefully my vision will be back to normal before my next mail.

Cheers.
Michael Gan
My comment: Always look forward to my recovery.

MRI Scan Report - 20th Jun 2005

MRI Scan Reports

NAME : GAN ING LEONG

MRN : 00102619

AGE / SEX : 39 / MALE

DATE : 20 JUN-05

MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING OF THE BRAIN

Axial T1 & T2, followed by contrast enhanced axial, coronal and sagittal T1 images.

Large contrast enhancing tumor mass in the nasopharynx with extension into the skull base and Lt cavernous sinus. The tumor is 5 x 6 cm in size.

The cerebral parenchymal signal intensity is normal. No mass effect, midline shift or hydrocephalus. There is infiltration of the pituitary fossa. The cerebellum, brainstem and cranio-cervical junction are normal.

IMP. The findings are consistent with NPC with Lt cavernous sinuis infiltration.

Patient is advised to bring old films for comparison.

Part 28

Date: Wed, 26 Apr 2006 01:47:58 -0400 (EDT)
From: "Michael Gan"
Subject: Chronicles of Michael Gan Part 28
To: "Yee Mei" , "Leslie Chong" , "Frank Liang" , "Lim Kian Soon" , "Alicia Yeap" , "Angie" , "BK" , "Celine Chin" , "chin_kongyew" , "Ho Wai Chun" , "Emily Wong", "Dennis Gan" ,"JO GAN", "Julie Gan" , "Iris Ho"
CC: "Kah" , "Ong Kian Tiong" , "Pastor Mark" , "Lau Mun" , "Eric Ng" , "Joey Phua Guat Choo" , "Alvin Soo" , "Kevin Soo" , "Florence" , "Henry Foo" , "Jee Lan Foo" , "Guruprasad" , "jesreen" , "angiepcng" , "Annie Chai/Ikea_kl" , "inania" , "jim_kow" , "Jeffery Lim" , "pek-mei.yoon" , "Chee SumYeong" , "wlchan"

Dearest all,

I went to Haadyai last week because I had a very painful headache (since last Friday 14/4) and also to check my condition. Below is the outcome:-

1) How's my condition now? Very good as my immune system are back in control.

2) Headache very pain since 14/4 - difficult to sleep? Uncle Su said that it's a good sign as it's detoxifying and ask me to boil green bean, add some salt and later add "pig blood" plus "yiu chai" - this will help reduce the pain. Well, it helps to reduce the pain and I can sleep.

Well, for your information, during this period, the pain is so unbearable that my little "Devil" pops out and luckily my little "Angel" also pops out.
"Devil" was saying "you should go for chemotheraphy and radiotheraphy?" then "Angel" say "no you must had faith and confident and belief that I will be cancer free"
“Devil” was saying “you should jump from my balcony (I stay in 9th floor) and all the pain will go away or all the trouble will be gone” then “Angel” say “no, that’s a stupid thing to do and asked me to imagine how I will look like when I am lying down there, ask me to take a deep breath and listen to the prayer and start to pray.”
At last "Angel" won the debate and it strengthens my will-power.

This trip I went with my friend whom had nose cancer stage 3, he underwent chemotheraphy and radiotheraphy (already 3 months), and based on his report his lump had shrunk to 5 mm. His doctor indicates that if there's a recurrence then it will be very bad and ask him to change his lifestyle. He also let Uncle Su to diagnose him and basically, Uncle Su says that it's not fully clear and advises him to take his medicine. My friend did not go for the medicine but instead indicate that he want to see how he progress in the next few months. I wish him all the best for him.

As for me, I will continue my journey and shall keep you all updated.

Cheers.
Michael Gan
PS next trip should be 25/5.
My comment: Be alert, conscious and always perform my prayer.

1st PET Scan Report

My 1st PET/CT Scan at Mount Elizabeth Hospital, Singapore

X-Ray Number : MEH05234115
Date of Reg. : 30/3/2005
Patient Name : GAN ING LEONG
Requested Examination : PET/CT SCAN
Age/Sex : 39 / Male
Ref. Doctor : DR KHOO KEI SIONG
Case / MRO No. : 2050024379

F-18 Fluorodeoxyglucose PET/CT STUDY

Indication:
NPC. Staging.

Technique:
Positron emission tomographic (PET) scan, coupled with non-contrast CT scan was acquired 13.10minutes after intravenous administration of 395 MBq of F-18 Fluordeoxyglucose (blood glucose 4.2mmol/l). CT data was used for attenuation correction and to provide anatomical correlation. The images were reviewed in the transaxial, coronal and sagittal projections.

Findings:
Axial and coronal images of the neck and nasopharynx demonstrate one hypermetabolic FDG avid soft tissue left nasopharyngeal mass (SUVmax of 7.1). It crosses the midline and extends towards right. Anteriorly, it extends into posterior nasal cavitye and superiorly to the sphenoid sinus. There is erosion of the clivus, with intracranial extension. Infratemporal fossae and the parapharygeal spaces are clear. Mild changes are noted in the left mastoid air cell, consistent with mastoiditis. There is no evidence of FDG avid cervical lymphadenopathy.

There is no evidence of FDG avid mediastinal or hilar lymphadenopathy. No suspicious pulmonary nodules are detected either. No consolidation or pleural effusion is seen on the CT images.

There is physiological uptake and excretion by the gastrointestinal and genitor-urinary tract. Fatty changes are noted in the liver on the CT images. No focal area of abnormal increased glycolysis is detected within the liver, adrenals or spleen. Incidental gallstones are noted. There is no evidence of FDG avid abdominal or pelvic lymphadenopathy. No suspicious pelvic masses are detected either. No ascites is seen on the CT images.

Marrow activity appears to be within normal limits.

Clinical impression:
1. Hypermetabolic FDG avid left nasopharyngeal mass with intracranial extension is noted. Anteriorly it extends into the posterior nasal cavity, and also crosses the midline to the right. This would be consistent with the known primary.

2. There is no evidence of FDG avid metastatic lymphadenopathy.

3. No abnormal lesion is detected to suggest FDG avid distant metastatic disease elsewhere.

Part 27

Date: Thu, 6 Apr 2006 02:14:17 -0400 (EDT)
From: "Michael Gan"
Subject: Chronicle of Michael Gan Part 27
To: "Yee Mei" , "Leslie Chong" , "Frank Liang" , "Alvin Soo" , "Kevin Soo" , "Lim Kian Soon" , "Alicia Yeap" , "Angie" , "Celine Chin" , "Ho Wai Chun" , "Emily Wong" , "Dennis Gan" , "JO GAN" , "Iris Ho"
CC: "Kah" , "Ong Kian Tiong" , "Lau Mun" , "Eric Ng" , "Joey Phua Guat Choo", "chpottery " , "Florence" , "Henry Foo" , "Jee Lan Foo" , "Julie Gan" , "jimmyl"

Dearest all,

I'm recovering slowly - that's how I feel everyday. As per my last email, I'm currently feeling much better, what I can say is that I'm like going thru some kind of detoxification via my medicine and I can feel the movement on the left eye and also the lump on my neck (shrinking slowly) ... in other word, patience and confident is the word that I shall use. I believe that if a person had the will power that he/she will be fully cured then he/she shall succeed. I had that belief and it is all a matter of time.

On 23rd March 2006, I started to write the following everyday “I am very happy that I am now strong and healthy.” After writing a few days I can see the different as it act as a reminder to me.

The medicine is making me to detox dark blood phlegme from my nose or thru my mouth everyday and my headache is twice or thrice a week. Not to worry, I'm use to the phlegme and as the headache; once I took the green bean with small "mok yee" + salt then I feel better.

I'm practising an exercise call 312 intead of qigong and I find that I'm feeling much more relieve. This exercise help to stabilize my blood pressure and lose weight (lost another 1 kg - now 84kg).

That's all for the time being, will update you all soon.

Cheers.
Michael Gan
My comment: Start writing to remind myself to be happy, strong and healthy. It works for me and it might work for you.

MRI Scan Reports

NAME : GAN ING LEONG

MRN : 00102619

AGE / SEX : 39 / MALE

DATE : 18 MAR-05

MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING OF THE BRAIN (11/03/05)

Axial T1 & T2, followed by contrast enhanced axial, coronal and sagittal T1 images.

Large contrast enhancing tumor mass in the nasopharynx with extension into the skull base and Lt cavernous sinus.

The cerebral parenchymal signal intensity is normal. No mass effect, midline shift or hydrocephalus. There is infiltration of the pituitary fossa. The cerebellum, brainstem and cranio-cervical junction are normal.

IMP. The findings are consistent with NPC with Lt cavernous sinuis infiltration.

Part 26

Date: Mon, 20 Mar 2006 00:30:01 -0500 (EST)
From: "Michael Gan"
Subject: Chronicle of Michael Gan Part 26
To: "Yee Mei" , "Leslie Chong" , "Frank Liang" , "Alvin Soo" , "Kevin Soo" , "Lim Kian Soon" , "Alicia Yeap" , "Angie" , "BK" , "Celine Chin" , "Ho Wai Chun" , "Emily Wong" , "Dennis Gan" , "JO GAN" , "Iris Ho" , "jimmyl "
CC: "wlchan " , "Juen Yee" , "ywfoo" , "judy.khoo" , "Kah" , "Ong Kian Tiong" , "Patt Kong" , "jim_kow" , "ktaa" , "Joey Kum" , "Elise Lai" , "LaiFong.Chong" , "Jeffery Lim" , "Pastor Mark" , "Lau Mun" , "Eric Ng" , "pek-mei.yoon" , "pek_hoon" , "Joey Phua Guat Choo" , "Chee SumYeong" , "chpottery" , "vcheng" , "Choong.Wai-Hong" , "alanclchee" , "angiepcng" , "luaudrey" , "boonket" , "mm.chai" , "Annie Chai/Ikea_kl" , "chanfong" , "Ellis Cheong" , "chin_kongyew" , "LaiFong Chong" , "estee" , "Florence" , "Henry Foo" , "Jee Lan Foo" , "Julie Gan" , "gurmit_singh" , "GAN H.G." , "inania" , "jesreen"

Dearest all,

I went to Haadyai last week (on 15/3/06 and was back on 17/3/06) as there was a group going and I can have their company. Well, another reason I went earlier is because I'm experiencing pain in my head, difficulty to eat, hearing problem and my speech is not as smooth as before. After consulting Mr Su, I feel much relieve and all the while I'm very confidence that I will be back to normal. Mr Su asks me to reduce the consumption of his medicine and added one more medicine ie number 1 (for my heart). He indicate that I should be heal anytime and it all depend on myself - self healing. No doubt I'm having a tough time at this stage but I know I had to face it and there's no excuse and I'm pushing myself to the limit.

My next trip will be sometime end of April 06.

(By refreshing back my memory – additional information added on 16th July 2007)
As I went through my own emails that I sent to all my friends, I notice that each mail is becoming shorter and shorter than before. So, the truth is, my mind was not functioning properly as I had to bear the pain, I consider myself lucky as I still received feedback from some of you and this help to bolster my energy level from dropping. What I can say is that I got the support from my close ones and all my friends and it make a BIG different and I was never alone in this battle.

Cheers.
Michael Gan
My comment: I received calls or emails or smses or visits from you all and I feel touch and not alone during my battle.

Part 25 - Cancer survivor

Date: Mon, 20 Feb 2006 09:06:27 -0500 (EST)
From: "Michael Gan"
Subject: Chronicles of Michael Gan Part 25
To: "LaiFong.Chong" , "Leslie Chong" , "Frank Liang" , "Pastor Mark" , "Alvin Soo" , "Kevin Soo" , "Lim Kian Soon" , "Yee Mei" , "alanclchee" , "Alicia Yeap" , "Angie" , "luaudrey " , "BK" , "boonket" , "Celine Chin" , "mm.chai" , "chanfong" , "chin_kongyew" , "Ho Wai Chun" , "Emily Wong" , "estee" , "Dennis Gan" , "JO GAN" <>, "gurmit_singh" , "GAN H.G." , "Iris Ho" , "jimmyl" , "Ong Kian Tiong"
CC: "jim_kow" , "Jeffery Lim" , "Lau Mun" , "Eric Ng" , "pek-mei.yoon" , "Chee SumYeong" , "Choong.Wai-Hong" , "wlchan " , "angiepcng" , "Annie Chai/Ikea_kl" , "Florence" , "Henry Foo" , "Jee Lan Foo" , "Julie Gan" , "inania" , "jesreen" , "Kah"

Dearest all,

I'm back from Haadyai with good news. Below are the questions I ask Mr Su:-

1) How's my progress? Very good, Mr Su said that if he had no confidence to cure me he would ask me to go home earlier.

2) Should I go for a scan? Not required cos when everything is ok then it will be back to normal.

3) Can he indicate when I'll be fully recovered? Mr Su said that I will know the result sometime around end of March 06 or early April 06.

4) Will my hearing be back to normal? Yes, by consuming 11E medicine

5) Do I need to see an ENT specialist? Not necessary

6) Mouth very dry and got ulcer? Drink more water and was told that this is the reaction to the medicine that I took.

7) Got rashes on my hand and leg? Medicine no 33 & 88 will handle it.

8) Can I take half boil egg? Yes but not chicken meat.

Base on the above, I'm crossing my finger that I will be fully recover (ie my vision is back to normal, the lump on my neck dissappear and the rashes is also gone).

This trip, Mr Su gave me 1 additional medicine ie. number 88 meant to destroy the cancer cells.

My next trip should be sometime around 6th April 2006.

Cheers.
Michael Gan
My comment: Take thing one step at a time.

Part 24 - Cancer survivor

Date: Sun, 12 Feb 2006 03:08:17 -0500 (EST)
From: "Michael Gan"
Subject: Chronicles of Michael Gan Part 24
To: "LaiFong.Chong" , "Leslie Chong" , "Frank Liang" , "Pastor Mark" , "Alvin Soo" , "Kevin Soo" , "Lim Kian Soon" , "Choong.Wai-Hong " , "Yee Mei" , "alanclchee " , "Alicia Yeap" , "Angie" , "luaudrey " , "BK" , "boonket" , "Celine Chin" , "mm.chai" , "chanfong" , "chin_kongyew " , "Ho Wai Chun" , "Emily Wong" , "estee " , "Dennis Gan" , "JO GAN" , "gurmit_singh " , "GAN H.G." , "Iris Ho" , "jimmyl " , "Ong Kian Tiong"
CC: "Jeffery Lim" , "Lau Mun" , "Eric Ng" , "pek-mei.yoon " , "Joey Phua Guat Choo" , "Chee SumYeong" , "chpottery " , "wlchan" , "angiepcng" , "Annie Chai/Ikea_kl" , "Florence" , "Henry Foo" , "Jee Lan Foo" , "inania " , "jesreen" , "Kah" , "jim_kow" , "Julie Gan"

Dearest all,

Happy Chap Goh Mei, well, I believe by the time you all received this email it is the 16th lunar day already, anyway Happy Valentine Day is the next 2 days.

I'm fine and still going very strong and am very confident that all will be back to normal in the next 1 or 2 months (my own feelings). At the moment my hearing is getting poorer and I had invested on a hearing aids (cost me RM3,000 – USD 789 per pair). Wait, do not jump to any anxiety as this is the reaction of the medicine and I'm planning to go to Haadyai next Thursday (16/2) and ask Mr Su the following questions, how I had progress? Should I go for a scan? Can he indicate when I'll be fully recovered? Will my hearing be back to normal? or do I need to get a ear specialist?

I lost another 1 kg during this period and my detoxification is like 3 or 4 times a week.

How I feel? At first, scare, then confuse, don't know how? Who to talk to? Why me? and etc. ... all this are gone with the wind, now the question popping up is what to cook today for lunch or dinner? How to prepare my lunch and dinner? Need to prepare my fruit for tomorow morning juices, do some light exercise, read newspaper and what groceries to buy this weekend.

Sound like a house"man" ... ha ha

Will let you all know the update after my consultation?

Cheers.
Michael Gan
My comment: Blow away all the negative thoughts.

CT SCAN REPORTS

NAME : GAN ING LEONG

MRN : 00102619

AGE / SEX : 39 / MALE

DATE : 18 MAR-05

COMPUTED TOMOGRAPHY OF THE CHEST AND ABDOMEN

Multi phase contrast enhanced scans of the chest, abdomen and pelvis.

The great vessels of the mediastinum are normal. No significant mediastinal or hilar lymphadenopathy identified. The heart and pulmonary vessels are normal. The ascending, arch and ascending aorta is normal.

Both lung fields are normal in density. No focal lung nodule or parenchymal abnormality. There is no pleural effusion or thickening. The trachea, main and segmental bronchi are patent. The chest wall, ribs, vertebrae and paravertebral soft tissues are normal.

The liver is normal sized. Small (12mm) hypodense nodule in the Rt lobe ? metastasis. The intra and extra hepatic bite ducts are not dilated. The gallbladder is normal. Gallstone noted. The CBD is not dilated. The pancreas is normal sized and density. The spleen is normal. Both kidneys are normal sized and density. No paraortic lymphadenopathy or ascities detected.

The bladder and rectal outline are normal. The perirectal fat planes are clear. No pelvic mass or fluid collections. The Rt & Lt iliac fossae are normal.

IMP. Small hypodense nodule in the Rt lobe of the liver ? metastasis.


COMPUTED TOMOGRAPHY OF THE NECK

Contrast enhanced axial spiral scans of the neck.

Large contrast enhancing tumor mass in the nasopharynx with extension into the skull base and Lt cavernous sinus. Lt cervical lymphadenopathy noted. There is infiltration of the pituitary fossa.

IMP. The findings are consistent with NPC and Lt carvenous sinus infiltration.

Pathology Report

My 1st Pathology Report on 15th March 2005

GRIBBLES PATHOLOGY (MALAYSIA) SDN BHD
. . . . . . . . PATHOLOGY REPORT . . . . . . . .

Patient Details:
GAN ING LEONG

DOB : 17/12/65 SEX: MALE AGE: 39 Years

Doctor Details:
LABORATORY DEPT
SUNWAY MEDICAL CENTRE
NO 5, JLN LAGOON SELATAN
BANDAR SUNWAY
PETALING JAYA 46150
DR GAN TN

NASOPHARYNGEAL BIOPSY

CLINICAL HISTORY

Mass in nasopharynx.

MACRO

A small piece of greyish white tissue measuring 3x2x2mm in size.
Submitted entirely in one block.

MICRO

Section shows a tiny fragment of tumour tissue composed of sheets of hyperchromatic cells with moderate amount of cytoplasm and resembling squamous cells in places. Mitotic figures are frequently seen.

Scanty stroma is present.

No keratinization seen.

DIAGNOSIS

Nasopharyngeal biopsy : Non-keratinizing squamous cell carcinoma, (WHO type II)

Part 23

Date: Fri, 13 Jan 2006 22:33:21 -0500 (EST)
From: "Michael Gan"
Subject: Chronicle of Michael Gan Part 23
To: "Leslie Chong" , "Frank Liang" , "Pastor Mark" , "Lim Kian Soon" , "Yee Mei" , "Alicia Yeap" , "Angie" , "BK" , "Celine Chin" , "Chin Kong Yew" , "Ho Wai Chun" , "Emily Wong" , "Dennis Gan" , "JO GAN" , "Iris Ho" , "Jimmy Lim"
CC: "Jeffery Lim" , "Lau Mun" , "Eric Ng" , "Pek Mei Yoon" , "Alvin Soo" , "Kevin Soo" , "Chee SumYeong" , "Tiger", "Choong.Wai-Hong " , "wlchan " , "alanclchee " ,"angiepcng " , "luaudrey " , "boonket " , "mm.chai " , "Annie Chai/Ikea_kl" , "chanfong" , "estee" , "Florence" , "Henry Foo" , "Jee Lan Foo" , "gurmit_singh " , "Guruprasad" , "GAN H.G." , "inania " , "jesreen " , "jim_kow " , "Kah" , "Ong Kian Tiong" , "LaiFong.Chong "

Dearest all,

I'm back after just a week ... just missed you all ... just a matter of time (very soon) that I will be sitting next to you all having "teh tarik" or coffee or beer and gossiping away.

Latest update about my condition, I did a Skin Carotenoid scan on 12/1/06 and the score is 24,000 as compared to my last scan on 10/11/05 @ 16,000. This indicates that my antioxidant had improved. This coincides with Mr Su, my physician, whom indicates that my internal organ is back to full strength.

I'm on the new cancer medicine for almost 7 days and there is reaction already such as dark blood phlegme from my mouth and nose, movement on my head and neck. I will check with Mr Su on Monday, whether I need to increase my doses from 2 to 3 times a day.

Next thing will be how do I past my time everyday? :-
7+ am woke up and cleanup, prepare my fruit juice and meditate
8+ am walk down the stairs from 9th floor to had my breakfast
8++ am took my medicine and read newspaper
10+ am preparing my lunch
11+ am check and send email, do browsing
11++ am cook my lunch
12+ pm had my lunch
1 pm had my medicine and read newspaper and watch astro program
2+ pm prepare my teatime (eg. organic red or green bean or sweet potatoes)
3+ pm had my teatime, check email and chat on skype or msn or yahoo
4+ pm take a short nap (sometime 15 mins, 30 mins or 1 hrs)
5+ pm prepare my dinner
6+ pm take shower, then meditate and had my dinner
7+ pm prepare my ingredient for tomorow fruit juice
8+ pm watch astro
10+ pm check and send email, relax by playing computer games
10++ pm good night sleep

Certain time, the medicine make me woke up once or twice.

Well, that's how I past my time everyday except for Sunday where I go and do my weekly refilling of my vegetables and fruits.

Till then, wish you all a wonderful day everyday.

Cheers.
Michael Gan
My comment: I am committed to my own recovery.

Part 22

Date: Sun, 8 Jan 2006 02:23:09 -0500 (EST)
From: "Michael Gan"
Subject: Chronicle of Michael Gan Part 22
To: "Lim Kian Soon" , "Yee Mei" , "Alicia Yeap" , "Angie" , "BK" , "Celine Chin" , "Ho Wai Chun" , "Emily Wong" , "Dennis Gan" , "JO GAN" , "Iris Ho" , "Ong Kian Tiong" , "Leslie Chong" , "Frank Liang"
CC: "Jeffery Lim" , "Pastor Mark" , "Lau Mun" , "Eric Ng" , "Pek Mei Yoon" , "Alvin Soo" , "Kevin Soo" , "Chee SumYeong" , "Tiger" , "Choong.Wai-Hong ", "W L Chan " , "Alan Chee" , "Angie Ng" , "Audrey Lu" , "Boon Ket" , "Chai" , "Annie Chai/Ikea_kl" , "Chan Fong" , "Estee" , "Florence" , "Henry Foo" , "Jee Lan Foo" , "Gurmit Singh" , "Guruprasad" , "GAN H.G." , "Inania" , "Jesreen" , "Jim Kow" , "Jimmy Lim" , "Kah" , "LaiFong.Chong "

Dearest buddies,

Wow, its 2006 already and a Happy New Year to everyone better late than never. Anyway I just got back from Haadyai yesterday. There's good news as my overall immune system had improve tremendously. Before that I had been consuming 6 different medicine whereby 5 of the medicine cover the 5 main organ of our human body ie. stomach, heart, lung, liver and kidney. As I told you all in my previous mail, my immune system is ready "meaning my army is ready" to take on the cancerous cell. So this round I was only given 2 type of medicine ie. for kidney and cancer (1.5 month medicine cost RM450 – USD 119). There will be some reaction and I shall update you all accordingly. Base on Uncle Su explanation, my lump on the neck, my hearing and my double vision will improve and I'm crossing my finger that all will be fine before Chinese New Year.

This trip I went with Mr Eric Ng (had stroke since last 8 years ago), I wish to let him know that I'm not able to take care of him during this trip because I had to take care of myself 1st. So I feel bad, please do understand.

For your information, my friend who went with me the last trip whom is Stage 3 had decided and started chemotherapy and radiotherapy ... well, it's his choice and I wish him all the best.

That is all for the moment.

Cheers.
Michael Gan
My comment: No matter how down I am, I always choose to be happy.