My company's trip to Langkawi

My celebrations and traveling reached a climax for this year when my company organized a trip for staff and families to Langkawi Island. We had gone on a company trip earlier to the same island when I had just joined the company some years ago. After many years I am amazed to see the rapid development in Langkawi.

The archipelago of Langkawi contains 100 over islands and is sanctuary to some of the most ancient rainforests in the world, including exotic flora and fauna. Langkawi Island itself is the largest among the archipelago, is the only one with any real settlement. It fringed by lovely beaches scattered along its coast. The island is still very much a rural landscape with villages and paddy fields.

My company’s entourage to Langkawi comprised of 31 adults and 18 children which included babies as young as 3 months old to a year old. Wow! I really take my hat off to my colleagues who are adventurous enough to bring their babies along.

We started the journey at about 11pm on Friday late night on two coaches. Since it was already bed time for some of us, we were half awake through the journey. After several stops, the bus I was in reached Kuala Perlis at bout 6 am on Saturday.

Day 1

Started very early as we had reached Kuala Perlis at the wee hours of the morning and had to wait for the Langkawi Ferry Service to bring us across the Island with it operations only starting at 6.30am.

I was very uneasy as I was already tired from trying to get sleep from a bus seat on a long night journey. I was however amazed to see my colleagues’ young children as they were so energetic. Oh! Sometimes…I wish … I could be as energetic as them. The ferry ride took us about 45 minutes and immediately upon landing on the island we were taken to the Langkasuka Beach Resort.

We were all so hungry when we reached the hotel and we could only check into our hotel rooms after 2 pm. We immediately dropped off our bags at the lobby and went to have the hotel's breakfast buffet. I kept on telling everyone that this is the first time in my life that I have not brushed my teeth to have breakfast. The others did not seem to fuss about it… may be they are a more seasoned traveler than I am or just less fussy…ha…ha!

After breakfast and since we did not have rooms to rest yet, we started our excitement in Langkawi by first visiting the Underwater World Langkawi,. this aquarium features abundance types of marine life, including a giant tank housing large marine species such as sharks, stingrays and a tunnel for visitors to walk through and enjoy a spectacular view of the marine creatures. There were also underwater gardens of weeds, sea plants together with exotic fishes and exhibits of fossils and penguins. Due to the mysterious death of hundreds of fishes a few months ago, some tanks were empty. We also waited to see the 3-D movie in underwater world but unfortunately the 3-D system was out of order and only managed to see a short movie.

We went back to the hotel, had lunch and checked in. Some of us decided to go to the Panorama Langkawi Cable Car and boy am I glad to had gone for the cable car ride regardless of feeling tired. While waiting for our turn to go on the gondola, I could see how high it was going up the hill and I told myself…shall I just chicken out! Yup! What further crossed my mind was… oh dear I not even told a proper good bye to my family if any mishap was to happen to me here. But then I told myself...what the hack I have not heard of any news of accidents…of cable cars plunging to the ground and so I joined the fun. What can I say..the views were awesome. Of course, as the gondolas went higher and higher up the steep mountain slope… virgin jungle of the Matcinchang Mountain Forest Reserve, I was getting nervous with my heart beating rapidly… so I became chatty with my colleagues who shared the gondola with me and at the same time enjoying the trees in the lush valleys and ravines.

At the hill top we came to a suspension bridge over the valley and my god it was so breathtaking and I marveled at the fabulous architecture of the suspension bridge. The feeling was one of being truly in cloud 9…reaching greater heights. This to me is the most memorial place of exhilarating fun in this whole trip. Of course we were also so close to the scorching sun and I was all sun burnt by then…but I did not care though but as usual I had to complain…ha..ha!

We had our dinner later out of the hotel and since all of us were tired, we said go night to each other for the next day was going to be another long day.

Day 2

We went island hopping. The sun was already scorching by the time we started our island adventure. We applied sun block lotion but after looking at our faces now… I not think it helped much. Going on island cruises was breathtaking scenery of Langkawi as our speedboats weaved through the watery passageways between the islands. We first went to Tasik Dayang Buting, the largest lake in Langkawi. We had to climb the hills to reach lake and I was already tired my then and was the last to reach the lake. There were so many tourists that day and some of them were taking a dip the lake. Some of us just padded our legs on the lake and then went to sit on some shade. We then went to Pantai Beras Basah for our lunch. Some of us took the opportunity to get ourselves a good dip in the sea to cool us down. The water was clear and refreshing.

Langkawi's is also duty free port so we much be crazy if we had missed to do shopping. So after quickly refreshing from the island hopping we then hopped to the shops to do some brisk shopping of chocolate, liquors and kitchenware among others. I really did not buy much as I already had splashed money during my Lake Toba, Medan trip.

By the time we reached the hotel, we all needed to rest before dinner.

Day 3

After an early breakfast I took my self to enjoy the beach in front of the hotel we were staying. After being in the water for some time, i went into the swimming pool at the hotel were ,most of colleagues and their families were enjoying themselves with splashes and laughter.

We check out of the hotel at noon after having a rushed lunch and head for the jetty. Luckily the ferry was well air conditioned and we made the journey back home before mid night on Christmas Eve…with memories and experiences to cherish.

Days Later.....

Probably I was enjoying myself too much in the sea and due to the heat, I came down with some skin rash on my arms and sores around my mouth. My doctor told me it could be so allergy.

Here are some photos of the outing. Surprised that I have posted them so quickly? This is because my colleague's husband is an avid photographer who provided all the photos. Wish i could have more enthusiastic photographers around me..Ha..Ha

I like to end this post by

Wishing Everyone A Happy New Year and May 2008 Be Filled With Great Laughter, Happiness and Scaling Newer Heights .

Beautiful Sun set

Romantic Moon

Last day at the beach

On the Suspension Bridge

Superb Structure of the Bridge

Breathtaking View of Bridge

Island hopping

I am collecting dead corals

Underwater World

Penguins

Resting at Tasik Dayang Bunting

On speed motor boats

Bathing at Pantai Beras Basah

Beautiful Sandy Beaches

Day 2 Dinner

Day 2 Dinner

Day 2 Dinner

Day 2 Dinner

My Brother got married

My brother got married last Thursday, 13 December. My sister in law hails from Kota Kinabalu, Sabah but now works in Petaling Jaya.

It was a joyous celebration as the couple got married according to Hindu rites, early Thursday morning at the Sakti Eswari Temple at Sungai Way, Petaling Jaya. On Saturday, 15 December they hosted a wedding reception at the Hotel Maya, Kuala Lumpur. The couple took their married vows amidst custom and rituals filled with pomp and flair, surrounded by Indian traditional music and religious mantras.

As the Hindu ceremony took place between 8.30am-10am, we had to get ready at the wee hours of the morning at about 4am for the wedding as we also had to travel from our home in Klang to Sungai Way. Although it was a working day, about 300 guests attended the wedding. My grand uncle, grand aunty and their son from Singapore graced the occasion with many other relatives and family members. The guests were also feasted to sumptuous Indian vegetarian dishes.

Both sides of the families are truly happy that these two people finally got married.

For the reception at the hotel, I was the emcee…in a romantic setting with flowers, Indian kuttu villaku and Indian music. The married couple finally revealed how they decided to tied the knot when they were at Mt Annapurna, Nepal.

The 250 guests were treated to a fusion of Chinese and Indian flavours and of course with wine and liquor. Beside the newly wed couple everyone was also in high spirit that night.

Oh I must have impressed people with my emcee skills as I had requests from guests to be emcee for the children’s wedding reception!

As usual will try to post some pictures later…ha…ha!

I end this post with the toast I proposed that night

“May your voyage through married life be filled with abundance of love, good health, prosperity, lots of happiness and be majestic as Mt Annapurna..to Alagappa & Ann”

Medan & Lake Toba

I had a good time at the toastmasters’ convention in Medan and enjoyed the rustic charm of Lake Toba.

This was my first toastmasters’ convention outside Malaysia and so it was a good experience for me. About 300 toastmasters came from Malaysia, Indonesia and Brunei. Mornings were filled with speeches, workshops and the nights were for merriment. My hats off to the organizers on the success of the convention. During the convention we stayed at the Tiara Hotel and during this time we did not get to see much of Medan.

The first night of the convention was fun as it was the “Ulos Nite” were everyone used ulos a traditional woven scarf by the Batak ethic people. I got myself an orange ulos for RM20.00.

The convention ended on Sunday and after lunch we started our Lake Toba tour. All together there were about 57 of us so we travelled by 2 bus coaches. It took us about 5 hours to reach Parapat, a small town on the shore of Lake Toba. We passed wide plantation of oil palm tress, rubber estates and padi fields. It was drizzling and it took us another 30 minutes to go by diesel boat to Samosir island. Samosair is an island in Lake Toba and is home to the Toba Batak- a prominent ecthic group in the archiplogo. The Lake is bigger than Singapore so just image how big it really is. We spend a night at one of the rest houses and the air was so cold that there was no need for air conditioner and the rooms did not have one anyway.

The next morning, it was so refreshing and rejuvenating to wake up on the island surrounded by beautiful sceneries and fresh air. When you look at the Lake you are will be really amazed at nature’s creation from a gigantic volcanic eruption. We first Tuk-Tuk and Ambarita two tourists centres at the Lake. The locals are well versed in English and communication is not a problem at all. We were brief on the history of the Batak people and did some shopping.

We then left the Lake to go Parapat and spend a night at the Niaga International Hotel. We could still enjoy the view of the Lake. We also visited a monkey rehab centre at Parapat. The next day we left Parapat to Medan and spend the night at Danau Toab International Hotel. During the span of 5 nights/6 days, we had the opportunity of staying at four different hotels. Wow were practically living in suit cases and for once it was quite fun. We also did a lot of shopping for souvenirs and the batiks were beautiful.

Medan’s food is chilli hot as chillies “padi” is one of the main ingredient to the dishes. We also snacked on a lot of fried stuff, chips and crisps as you can find them in abundance.

Medan is only about 55 minutes from Kuala Lumpur by flight. I would like to go to Lake Toba again to enjoy the natural beauty and relaxed ambiance.

Hope to post some photos in the next posting.

Deepavali

I had a few visitors today,
Peace came, brimming with gay
Wealth came, saying “good day!”
Health came, saying “an apple a day keeps the doctor away!”
Joy came, singing “oh happy day”
All asked for a permanent place to stay,
So I gave them your address without delay.
And directions so they don’t go astray
They should be at your doorstep sometime today!
Happy Deepavali!!!

That is one of the best Deepavali greetings via sms I received on Deepavali day. I had a good celebration with loved ones and a good rest too!

We indulged in good food and Indian palagarams including a lot of Indian sweetmeats.

As I read my posting last year on Deepavali, I realized that I had written that I will throw a party and invite friends. Well as we have to be economical, I completely forgot the idea until I read my blog. Maybe next year..ha…ha!

We have two maids (our own and brother’s), so the bulk of cleaning up was taken care off…Whew! What a relief! That is why all of us did not feel that tired on Deepavali. I was really lazy this year so I did not take any snapshots to post on the blog.

Since I had time, I decided to join my friends for hospital visit over the weekend. I had not done so for the past two years and definitely it was a bit strange going back as a volunteer.

I will be going to Medan, Indonesia to attend the District 51 Toastmasters Convention this Friday and will be away for a week. Really looking forward for this trip!

Then once I get back, the family will be getting ready for my youngest brother’s wedding on 13^th December.

Lots of celebration to look forward to at the end of the year.
Lite a lamp of life and let it reflect deep inside your soul.
In life’s journey million of tales will be told,
Some happy, like yours & mine
This Deepavali I pray to god that u see beyond this life,
Beyond time & space to feel happy & feel your heart with love.

The Secret

Reading my posts later anyone would get the idea that I have gone into this low beat feeling of gloominess….if this sounds right! Well, that how I felt when I read again, my early posts...ha…ha!

Even when I read other survivors blogs and I do not see their posts for some time, I get worried. I suppose that is what others too must be presuming because as sometimes I get calls from friends to find out if I am okay. I am really touched by their calls.

It just that everyone leads a very busy life style that sometimes you just cannot find the time to sit and blog. I am really amazed at others who can find the time to blog so often.

Last week I just felt stressed…went for retail therapy...bought the book “the Secret” by Rhonda Byrne. The book had always been at the back of my mind. Then a friend loaned me her DVD on it which I did not get time to watch till the end. Coincidently, after that I meet my brother friend near my office and as we talked he said he is reading the book and had made changes to his life. And then I need retail therapy and got finally got the book.

And now lets see one can come out from the cocoon of negativism to a frontier of new energy, vibrancy and full of life…ha…ha!

Today is the last day of Pink October, and I did not participate in any of the events. Well, there are rests of the months to contribute towards the breast cancer cause.

No mammography for women under 40 years

I am really annoyed. Last night, I received a call from my friend. She has got a cousin who went to have a mammography done in one of the leading medical centres in the Klang Valley as her breast was painful. However the hospital staff discouraged her from having the mammogram done because she was below the age of 40 years and she was assured she had nothing to be worried about! I suggested a few places to my friend where mammography could be done and where silly presumptions would not be made.

What is really amazing is how someone can come with such a presumption. Do these clowns know that I personally know about 10 ladies who are cancer survivors and happen to be below 40 when first diagnosed with breast cancer including myself! Looks like it is not only the public should be made aware of breast cancer but also the medical profession! With attitudes like these more younger women would not have breast cancer detected at an early stage.

Anyway on another note, these two weeks have been filled with news of two ladies I know having cancer. One is breast cancer survivor who had finished her treatment almost the same time I did but now it has gone to the bone and spread to the liver. Another is a dedicated volunteer in her late 60’s who has been diagnosed with colon cancer.

In the midst of all these I suddenly find my breast painful which I have to wait and see whether is due to hormonal change during the menstrual cycle. As usual all types of disturbing thoughts will occupy the mind.

Not been a very uplifting 2 weeks.

During this time, I also discovered that mastectomy bras are becoming more expensive as it is nothing less then RM100. A friend suggested why not I get bras with pockets from the shelves which are commonly sold. So I found out that the brand “Triumph” has got one bra designed with a pocket. After tying it on, I found that my prosthesis can fit into the pocket with a bit of alteration to be made so as to protect the prosthesis from falling out. That only cost me only RM50.00. Though I have am not wearing it yet, I think it should be okay.

Pledging Our Organs

I read in the newspaper on how a teenager who was kept alive by a mechanical heart received a new lease of life from the heart harvested from another teenager who died in a road accident.

I must take my hats off to the family of the organ donor, who in the time of this great loss, has generously donated their child’s organs and give lease of life to others.

I have always contemplated of donating my organs one day. I know I would not be able to donate my eyes because I already have a poor eye sight and was thinking of donating the rest of the organs. But now after breast cancer it has been decided for me…I cannot be an organ donor.

As more organs are needs, I hope more people will pledge their organs and after their death it is further hoped that their family will not object at the 11th hour when the organs need to be harvested.

Pledging our organ and allowing others to live is a magnanimous gift of life.

A gift for a cancer patient

A friend of mine asked my suggestion on a gift for her friend who is going to have mastectomy soon.

My sms text to her was as follows,”u could by anything tat is beautiful & cheerful…could even be a book about new hobbies…most importantly it is your companionship.”

Yap, I really felt in good spirits up when visitors came to visit me during surgery and treatment as I went through a roller coaster ride.

I told a friend of mine who came to visit me I needed to make juices and did not have a juicer, she immediately bought one for me and I was really touched. There were so many other incidences and gifts that touched my heart too. Another friend gave me some cross stitch materials… although I did not complete it then but it took my mind off things when I started doing them.

Others who came to see including my relatives always came with lots of fruits, organic vegetables., cereals and other food items. I know these are so easily available but by them bringing, it forces you (as you are many moods at times) to have a good diet and also makes you make the juices because you do not want what they brought to go to waste and you know people cared for you. I needn’t had to depend on my family for these things as I was already depending on them a lot.

I also received books and magazines to read whenever I felt like it. A couple of friends of my who came to visit me very often would my me a variety of soft drinks so it would enlightened the taste bud that has been dulled by the chemo. I got to know the existence of the purple colour dragon fruit during this time which is believed to be high antioxidant. My uncle sent the fruits every other week to my house.

I know I received a lot other things but cannot remember them as I post this blog. Ah! Now I remember another friend of my bought me several stylish scarves and I enjoyed wearing them when I went out. Another friend got me very big round ear-rings and I felt then I was setting a trend for scarves and big ear rings like gypsies!

Two weeks after the surgery, my toastmasters friends cajoled me to go for a day’s family trip to some orchard along a stream because they said it will do me good and it did then.

I know some people would rather be left alone during chemotherapy and radiotherapy but for me it was vital that I had people come to make me laugh and cheer me up. Many people helped and contributed in many ways towards my recovery and I shall always be grateful to them.

Vegetarian for a month.

I am vegetarian for a month of Purattasi (tamil calendar month) which started on 18 September 2007 and will end on mid of October 2007. This month is considered a very auspicious month by the Tamilians and special prayers are offered to Lord Venketeswara.

All of us in the family are vegetarians and stick to strict vegetarian diets. We not even consumer any food that has traces of egg.

Special prayers are held on Saturdays at home and after the prayer we all have a authentic
meal served on banana leave.

Although on vegetarian diet, I have never lost weight during this month…because I am hungry often and end up munching a lot.

That is why I went on Sunday to the Pasar Ramadan in my neighbourhood and indulged on variety of traditional malay delicious. This included my all time favourite chicken satay and popiah basah among other things. The food looked oily but what the heck it has been some time I had all these items.

I don’t know about other survivors but I think I am loosing control of my so called planned diet of less sugar, fat and oil. I admire those who have cut down on these and have the discipline to follow their strict diet. I have not been taking my fruit + vegetarians juices.

Sometime I reminder myself about the diet sometimes I tell myself what the heck!

Breast Health Trainer’s Workshop

I attended the Breast Health Trainer’s Workshop at Johnson and Johnson Medical Malaysia, Wisma Zuellig last Saturday. Supporting partners for this workshop were, Johnson and Johnson Medical, College of Radiology and BCWA.

The workshop was conducted by Dr Evelyn Ho, President of the College of Radiology, Academy of Medicine of Malaysia. About 30-40 women attended this workshop. She gave a comprehensive presentation on various topics. The session started of by everyone introducing themselves. Then I found out there were ladies (who are volunteers) from the Breast Cancer Support Society Kluang, Breast Cancer Support group from Segamat and the rest of us survivors from BCWA. When it came to my turn for introduction, I said I had my own blog. And was I surprised when a lady from Segamat said she had read my blog and left a comment. Wow! Then I discovered it was Maria who left a comment on my previous blog. What a small world it is!

The workshop started as 2.30 pm and ended at 6 pm. The workshop covered a spectrum of topics of breast anatomy, breast self examination, support and counseling. The topics also touched on symptom, diagnosis, screening and testing. I came across mammography tomosynthesis which is being tested in some centres in Malaysia.
Towards the end of the session, we were all divided into groups to test our skill if we were to present a breast self examination talk in front of a group of women.

Breast models with other brochures and postures were handed over to the support groups from Segamat and Kluang. I must take my hats off for these ladies who came all the way from Johor in their learning new skill to be better volunteers and support providers.

Well I look some pictures, which as usual will post later!

I got a call from my friend over the weekend wanting to know whether I was alright as she has not seen a new posting for almost 2 weeks. Oops!looks like a lot people are there to monitor whether I am actively blogging!

My mother celebrated her 63th birthday early this month. Suddenly birthdays have become a must celebrate event for us and not to let it pass without being noticed.

I had time to catch of with another friend of mine who is also a survivor. She has not joined any support group but in her own way she is giving back to society. She give support to others who are diagnosis with cancer referred by family, friends, colleagues or people her neighbourhood. Giving back to society is important and it can be done it so many ways.

Assuring a fellow survivor

I received a call from a cancer survivor 2 days ago. She was referred to me by my friend. During her chemotherapy I had kept off and on in touch with her. However lately, of course as I have been busy I could not find the time to catch up with the development of her treatment. In fact… I had not spoken to her for a few months.

So when I saw her “miss call” I was truly surprised. I called her back and found out she was doing the marking for her radiotherapy in the general hospital. She has just completed her chemotherapy. She called from the hospital to ask since they did the tumour marker and found nothing alien, must she continue with the radiotherapy. She further added that she was told earlier that she had to have 15 sessions of radiotherapy but now has been increased to 20 sessions.

Of course, I told her that she must have radiotherapy and complete all the 20 sessions. I assured her that all of us have after going through both treatments and have managed the side effects of the treatments. I convinced her that she should not have second thought about it but should complete all the treatments. She also wanted to know which side I had my radiotherapy treatment as hers was on the left and she was worried about her heart. I told her not to worry about her heart right now but deal with her cancer first. She told me she needed some one to talk too and she thought of me! Yap… I know how important it is to talk to another fellow survivor in times when you are not sure of what to do.

I do remember reading that somewhere that measuring of tumour markers in blood as a screening tool, is not conclusive evidence of the existence of cancer.

It also brought memories of the marking session and followed by the radiotherapy treatment we all had to go through.

Relay for Life-Part 2

I know it has been almost two months...but i only had the time now to posts the Relay for Life pictures. Surprising i had an anonymous blog visitor who asked me about the photos and i thought i better get down to serious business of posting them.
Here they are...

Second day of the relay Sunday morning...I am with two of my friends (One of them a survivor and another volunteered all the way from Ipoh).

Some of the enthusiastic survivors who still looked fresh and energetic on Sunday morning.

We started walking under the drizzle. I am with my mother and Datin Dr Dharmalingam. They both were given rain coats and i went looking for an umbrella.

The crowd focused at the stage for the finale of the relay for life on Sunday morning. There was a sense of achievement and pride felt by the participants as they have contributed towards the success of the event.

Young and old participants continued walking on the track filled with so much energy. I take my hats off for all those senior participants! The sun was really hot that day.

These ladies are the Pink Challengers from the Breast Cancer Welfare Association. They are the adventurous women who continue to take part in dragon boat races. Hip- Hip Hurray for them!

Just before the start of the event on Saturday, the was a heavy down pour with thunder and lighting...but this did not damp the spirit of all those who were there. The merriment went on with dance and music while waiting for the sky to be cleared.

I snapped this photo of the stage at the end of event. Before this there were activities at all times on the stage, performance by the music bands or dancers....

The palm prints of the survivors who came that day. I cannot seem to spot mine. Ha...Ha! Mine and my mother's prints are somewhere on the cloth.

These are tents made available for participants to spent the night on the field. While some caught up with sleep, others joined the activites on the field.

Ha.. I found a picture where a volunteer helped me to press my palm hard on the cloth.

International Conference On Survivorship And Supportive Care in Cancer

The BCWA is organizing the International Conference on Survivorship and Supportive Care in Cancer over the weekend from 10-12 August 2007 at Crowne Plaza Mutiara Kuala Lumpur. The theme of the conference is “Enabling Survival-Promoting Early Intervention and Care”. The conference is held in conjunction with 1^st KL International Congress on Breast and Colorectal Cancer.

Many foreign and local speakers ( including cancer survivors) will be delivering their speeches on a myriad of topics from treatment, to supportive care to benefit finding after cancer. I was hoping to go for this conference but my job schedule does not permit me to do so. I initially planned on going on Saturday and Sunday, then found out there was a family function to attend to on Sunday. That why sometimes it is good not to be working as it would allow one to attend events and seminars at our leisure. ..Ha…Ha!

I am sure the conference will be a success and hope I will be able to attend events like these the next time they are held.

Mammogram cartoons

My…My!

I have not blogged for so long. Actually I have been very occupied lately. Firstly my department manager resigned and then my weekends are busy doing this, like any other Malaysians

During this period of silence, an email was forwarded to me on Mammograms. Although the message at the beginning was a reminder to have mammograms done but it was followed with some disgusting cartoons about ladies having their mammograms done. The cartoons were poking fun of women’s breasts after having the mammogram done...the different shapes and so on.

I personally was upset when I received it. For many those cartoons may have brought about smiles or laughter as they may be considered humorous. But to me it was totally distasteful, my colleagues too agreed with me. I not think the message to have mammograms done, would reach any one who reads them.

I also read an article which stated a research was done among women, where the study concluded that a diet extra heavy in fruit and vegetables was not better than one with the standard recommended amounts in preventing the recurrence of breast cancer. Well for me everything in moderation is important. Sometimes it is really difficult to follow the recommended diet, most probably being Asians our servings are less. Anyway I can’t eat much at night either. As I usually have my dinner before 8pm, I find stomach discomfort on the days that I have my dinner after 8pm.

Recently, I got inspired when an anonymous person left a message in my previous post and a friend of mine who got hold of “The Journey” said it was wonderful via sms. It was a great feeling after reading the succinct comments.

THE JOURNEY-Newsletter by NSCM

A copy of “THE JOURNEY”, the newsletter published by NSCM was sent to my office recently. My colleague brought it to me immediately. A few minutes later when I had the chance to look at it I was surprised to see my picture….hei! What am I doing! Ah!...it was picture take during the fashion parade held in conjunction with the NCSM’s Yellow Week 2005 at Suria KLCC Main Concourse.

That was the first time in my life I took part in a fashion show and I must say I had a wonderful time. It was also immediately after I had completed my treatment in August 2005 and this gave me a real image booster. I paraded myself in designer clothes and professional make up… face…ah!....ah! It was really a new experience for me…but have not got the opportunity to do so after that although there were invitations. What to do…as most of the event falls on a working day.

I realized they have also published the article I for the newsletter titled “ My first 2 days of being diagnosed with breast cancer-NCSM’s support”. Looking back, I am really glad the article was published because it emphasizes my favourite message i.e “It is important to open up and receive support when dealing with breast cancer”. It is also good I wrote this article and to have my experience documented. This is because as the years go by, I may forget how I handled the situation during treatment. As it is I always had a problem remembering things! I hope the article will inspire others to seek and receive support when diagnosed with cancer.

About last week I received a call from BCWA about doing a mother & daughter interview for a local woman’s magazine with a wide circulation. The writer wanted to write an article based on cancer in the family. As I had to check with my mom, I told them that my mom is not me and may be reluctant to give the interview. True enough when I asked my mother she was not in favour of it. To be interview is one’s prerogative
and they decision should be respected!

As I looked at “THE JOURNEY” again to write this post, I am glad for all the new experiences gained. After BC , I am game for new frontiers!

Changes in my right Breast.

I had my mammogram done this morning. I thought as usual it was going to be a breeze through but was I in for a rude shock. While I was waiting for the mammogram results, the young radiologist assistance came and said they have to do ultrasound examination. When I heard that my heart was really beating fast and the first thing that came to my mind was, “Oh No! Something is wrong!”

There were several radiologists (properly assistances or trainees) in the room and one of them told me that because of my history they felt the need to have the ultrasound examination done. They keep probing my breast with the transducer for almost 20 minutes and there were 3 doctors doing the examination. I was really praying hard everything would be okay. Finally the head radiologist explained that they found changes in my breast on this mammogram compared to the one done last year. It fact they found more cysts and calcification (deposit of calcium in the tissues). She asked several question including when I had my last menstrual and when was gyne visit. I told I have not had my periods for 2 months now and my gyne visit is due next week. She wanted me to do another mammogram on a certain spot on the top of the breast just to be sure nothing abnormal is there and to have a follow up in 6 months’ time.

Then I went back again to next room to have another mammogram done. After that the radiologist told me to come back in 6 months time. During this time, it struck my mind may be I was eating too much of food with calcium content and I must be more careful of my diet. Well, from the hospital I got back to work as I only had taken time off and after doing a search on the internet…it states that calcium in the diet does not create calcium deposit in the breast. I spoke to a fellow survivor for support and then carried on with work.

Earlier on the morning episode had left me quite shaken and upset. Now, I have calmed myself down … well…what has to happen will happen…just enjoy life and pray.

Half Year Clean Up

I was down with fever 2 weeks ago. In fact during that time most of my family members were having flu or fever. The whole house was a “sickly” zone! I had the fever for 4 days and I did a blood test for dengue. Well lucky after the blood test, the fever suddenly disappeared and the results showed it was not dengue. After that episode, I am struck with a bad chest cough. Although it is much better now, but I am still coughing off and on. Since this is June, I joked to my friends that is the half year clean up of the body system….ha!....ha!

So really I have not been in the best of moods lately. I have not been going for my tai chi exercise for the past 2 weeks nor have I done any other form of exercise. I feel like a couch potato. I even missed my toastmasters meeting last week.

Early this week a friend of mine whose is a fellow breast cancer survivor called to have a chat. She too has not been well, with a constant blister on her tongue. The doctors that she saw told her not to worry however recommended her to do a biopsy. She is so afraid of doing one…I can understand the feeling. It was both of us pouring out our fears and worries about this and that. Even the smallest health conditions will create a fear in us.

In the midst of swallowing antibiotics, I ever forgot to take my tamaxifon. Funny really…I have been taken it for more than a year now every day, and there are times I forget to take it. Then I worry if missing to take the tablet will bring about other problems.

Well…worry or fear…life goes on!

Relay for Life KL 2007

It was an awesome event during the weekend. My parents, a friend and I were at Bukit Jalil. The event was Relay for Life (RLF) organized by the National Cancer Society Malaysia (NCSM). True to the Malaysian spirit of “Malaysia Boleh”, the event started with a high spirit despite the heavy downpour an hour before the opening ceremony. The event was officiated by NCSM honorary advisor Datin Zuraidah Atan followed by a speech by the president Mr Anthony Skelchy.

Although the rain had abated by then and it was drizzling, it did not stop the 300 odd cancer survivors from all ages to walk the survivors’ lap. I must admire all of them, who braved the drizzle, however I used an umbrella and my mother was given a rain coat. Survivors beam proudly as they walked around the stadium accompanied by the boisterous cheers from the crowd.

The atmosphere at MSN Training Stadium’s was one of carnival with live music, live performance, concerts, activities, games and even Ms Malaysia graced the occasion.
Participants from corporate organizations, colleges and individuals continued walking or running for 16 hours on the track. It being school holidays, there were lots of young children joining the activities adding more energy to the RFL. Some people had also adorned their creative costumes while walking on the track. People came with their families and I remembered seeing babies being pushed in the pram around the field. There were also tents for those who wanted to spend the night at the stadium.

I left the stadium about 9.30pm as it was still drizzling and my parents wanted to get home. But the activities were on full swing with everyone having a good time. I was hoping the Luminaria Ceremony would start by then but because of the rain, the event had to be delayed.

I went back again the next morning to the Stadium and to my surprise the crowd was still there. People who stayed over night did not look tired at all. I marvel the energy all of them had. May be next year I must try spending the night at the stadium to witness the enthusiasms of the crowd. That morning I walked a few rounds with my friend on the track….I did not want be left out of the feeling of creating history as RFL was for the first time held in KL…ha…ha!

At 10 am that Sunday morning the RLF came to an end. A record of success has been made in the history books of NCSM. Heartiest congratulations to the organizing committee (many of them cancer survivors), for their tireless & selfless volunteerism have borne into a beautiful fruit to be remembered by all who participated. All those organizations and individual who donated in kind or cash must be applauded. For survivors like me, it was a proud moment when I made the survivors’ lap…a sense of achievement…Hei! I have made it too.

I had taken some picture which will be posted later.

DELIVERING A PRESENTATION IN TAMIL

I always wanted to know how I would perform if I was asked to speak in Tamil about BC. I had the opportunity to test my skills last Sunday early morning. There was a breast self examination (BSE)programme organized by the women's wing of Petubuhan Kebajikan Socio Ekonomi Masyarakat India KL & Selangor (PEREMI) with the assistance of Yayasan Strategik Sosial. The BSE was the first programme after the opening ceremony.

This was the PEREMI’s inaugural event which was officiated by it patron YB. Tuan Manibalan Kutty. Breast Cancer Welfare Association (BCWA) was invited to conduct the session on BSE.

Besides me there were two other survivors, Sarojini and Vimala. I started by sharing how I discovered BC, followed by my fellow survivors. I realized a lot of times I express myself in English that I have forgotten how certain words are spoken in Tamil.

I even forgot how “breast” is said in Tamil….can you believe that! I also totally did not know the tamil word for “menstruation”. Anyway I quickly picked up the words and used them in the presentation.

There were about 30-40 women from all ages. BSE techniques were explained by making reference to the BCWA pamphlet. Teaching sets of silicon breast were available for all women to have the hands on experience.

The audience had a lot of questions to ask, which we gladly answered. It was a good one hour session.

I was actually proud of myself for having been able make the presentation in Tamil. I must congratulate PEREMI for creating more awarenss about BSE to the indian women.

My first presentation in Tamil

Silicon breast sets for on hands experince

Vimala explaining about BSE to a participant

Marion of the BCWA showing to a participant how to feel the lumps on the silicon breast

Organising Chairman Dr Batumalai Velu presenting a token of appreciation to Babara of the BCWA

Toxicity Level of Vegetables & Fruits

I really got upset when I read the recent reports of farmers using banned pesticides. It is important for everyone to eat healthy and fresh veggie and fruits, especially us the cancer survivors. According to these reports these tainted vegetables and fruits are so easy available in wet markets, supermarkets and pasar malam. What then do we do anyway if all these vegetables which looks so beautiful from the outside because so much illegal pesticides have been sprayed with the banned pesticides. One consumer group claims that the illegal farms are so prevalent in Malaysia that almost half the produce of vegetables like cucumbers, brinjals, ladies fingers, chillies and leafy vegetables contain dangerous amounts of pesticides.

After all the treatments, I already have enough alien substances in my body. The irony is, I have to eat more servings of nutritionally rich food but yet at the back of my mind, is the level of toxic each vegetable contains. This fact really bugs when I make myself a bowl of salad from raw vegetables, which I enjoy alot.

Well, farmers do not realize that all these illegal pesticides are also a serious health hazard to them too beside the consumers.

Alternatively I can go for organic food but then I am not on organic food due to cost and availability. I seriously wish there will be more ethical farming practices and awareness among farmers on the use of illegal pesticides. They are used so as to reap higher profits…but then what good is it there if people do not live long enough to enjoy it.

For now, I will continue to buy vegetables which have signs that they have been eaten by insects and have leafy veggies soaked in water before eating them.

Hospital Visits

I read an article written by an oncologist on bed manners which touched on how not to visit a cancer patient. This brought to mind my own experience when I spent 2 nights at the hospital when I had the mastectomy .

I personally felt good when my relatives and friends came to see me…after all I told all and sundry that I was going for a mastectomy.

It was nice to have them, bringing flowers or boxes of ikan aruwan among others items. Most importantly was the fact they brought with them lots of laughter and cheerfulness. That made me forgot the pain and uneasiness of the surgery, the fear and anguish of having breast cancer.

Friends whom I have not seen for ages came to visit me and I was really pleasantly surprised. To me, all their visits showed me they cared for me and I cherish that.

Well, each of us have of own perspectives of people having visit us when we are in hospitals. I know some friends who rather not have visitors as they just want to be left alone to rest and recover. Of course to those friends, I respect their privacy and would make enquiries from their family members on how they are recovering in the hospital.

I now recollect the encounters which I had heard from patients when I used make my hospital visits as a volunteer with the general hospital in Klang. Patients’ grouses included people had tried to sell them health products, strangers approaching them to preach about religion, family members do not coming often enough to visit them or worst still family members have not come at all but have left the maid to look after the patient.

That is the reason why when we volunteers visit them, they would be chatty or at least make an effort to smile. We had spent time with them talking to help them overcome their boredom or assist them in any other way.

Recently, I have a few people whom I know (friend’s friend or family member) diagnosed with breast cancer. As I was unable to visit them in the hospitals, I had endeavored to speak to them via handphone to motivate and to give them confidence. I think this I important as one lays in bed worried about life after surgery due to breast cancer.

Aromatic Massage & Reflexology

My friends and I decided to drive to Melaka last Saturday, just to get away from the rigmarole of the weekend life at the Klang Valley.

As did not book any hotel rooms early, we finally found empty rooms at the Melaka Straits Hotel. We checked into our rooms and took a walk in the scorching sun around the town and had our lunch at the Indian street. At night we had dinner had the Portugis Settlement. We took a table near the sea wall and could hear the small waves beating against the rocks.

We feasted ourselves to some Portugis cuisine. Beside our table was a stall which sold all kinds of sea nails and cockles with were barbequed. Some of the shell thingy…I have not seen in my life! Of course, we were not adventurous with our sea food so we did not try them but other customers were really enjoying the shells which were sold like hot cakes. We restricted ourselves to “sotong sambal” and “Portugis Fish Baked” and we thoroughly enjoyed.

Many of the people at this settlement looked like to me are fishermen during the day and at night they operate the food stalls.

After dinner, as it was still early we just drove into town again and the shop with the sign reflexology caught our attention. So we went into the shop and at a reflexology session for 30 minutes. As the reflexlogist applied pressure at my soles almost every point was painfully. He said I had lot of air in my tummy among others. It was supposed to relax me but it was a realization for me that most parts of my body were not in good shape…ha….ha!

As we completed our session and was driving away, another sign board got our attention. All types of massage. I think we were in the area of the town which was a centre for all these massages and therapies. Since we did not have anything planned and since we would not find the time to indulge ourselves in the therapies when we were back home, we decided to try out the aromatic massage. We had a good one hour session. I have never had experienced aromatic massage before so I was quite reluctant at first because of my hand.

I told the young girl therapist that I am a cancer survivor and warned her nicely of course not to touch my left hand at all. She said she had never had a cancer survivor before and I am her first. Of course in between massaging, she would check to see whether I am alright. She also said I had lots of wind in my veins and I wanted to tell her that was old news! With the pains on my sole, I had more pain to my body….what away to spend a holiday ah!

The brisk stokes and the relaxing movement lulled me into a state of semi sleepiness though I was conscious of the hard pressure from the therapist hands. I allowed the therapist to massage the left back shoulder, but she did not touch my left hand at all.
I was tempted to ask her to do a gentle massage but the thought of any chances of having numbness on the hand prevent me from doing so.

We all slept well that Saturday night. We returned back on Sunday, and with me still complaining of soreness on my soles, hip and thighs.

I suppose the next time I go for any of these therapies it would not be so painful as I hope there will be less wind /air in my body!

Lift Etiquette

I just got hit by the lift doors because 3 selfish people who went into the lift first did not have the courtesy to the press the button for the doors to remain open until everyone was in.

Well this is the selfish attitude of people these days. For a change after being hit by the doors, I raised my voice and said “Jaga sikit lain kali!” Of course the three dumb fools just kept quite and did not even have the courtesy to apologize. What a bunch of nin-com-poops!

This has happen to me several times and after the lift door hits, my left arm is painful and some times it is numb for days. That is why I am usually careful when I enter the lift these days.

I was surprised at my own outburst. With more self centered people lurking around, in every nook and corner, it is time to be vocal!

My Sunday Discoveries

I just found out this morning, two of my neighbours a few houses away have been hospitalized for dengue fever. When people came yesterday to spray the insecticides in our housing area, we were wondering why all of a sudden the town council has sent their men to spray. After hearing the news this morning, it explains the men’s presence. Hope the insecticides have eradicated the mosquito population in my housing area…that is the last thing we need, is to be down with dengue fever.

My 4-month old nephew had his head shaved at Batu Caves today. I climbed the 272 steps to reach the hilltop, panting and catching my breath at several stops on the way. When I reached home, I had a muscle pull at my right leg and my heart was still beating fast as it was going to pop out of my chest. Looks like going for Tai-Chi does not change the fact that I am getting old…ha…ha!

As I was resting my legs this afternoon and reading the papers, I came across this article on how a number of people have signed up to have their bodies frozen after death in the hope of being thawed and brought back to life some day. It is about the world of cryonics. These people are convinced that if they were frozen carefully and quickly soon after their death, their bodies could be maintained indefinitely until science found a cure for whatever illness that claimed their lives.

When the time comes, they hope the future generations would be able to take them out of cryogenic suspension and jump-start back them into a second life. It was interesting article to read on how people are willing to pay lots of money for a second life.

That made me think, what about those suffering from breast cancer. Would they want to be put in cryogenic suspension and brought back to life many years later when there is medicine advancement? Among other issues, that is an interesting, expensive and morally ethical thought to consider as it creates revolution for human existence.

Punching Bag

I represented my area in the Toastmasters International, District 51, Division C, International Speech Contest last weekend. The title of my speech was “punching bag”. The speech was for 5-7 minutes. I spoke about when challenges coming knocking at our doors at once, how to cope with such adversities. I associated adversity to be a boxer and we the punching bag

Of course, I said the first thumb rule was self confidence. To believe in oneself of our inner strength and willpower. The second rule was to find alternatives. I related how my first chemotherapy was really bad and how I found ways to reduce the effects by going to tai chi. The final rule was the phrase chemotherapy taught “this is only for a few months”. I spoke how I lost my crowning glory, my eye lashes fell on my blouse, my eyebrow thinned and nails turned black. I said I was an image of a sunflower with no petals! But this image was only for a few months and how I look stylize after that.

I concluded my saying how when life gives punches, we must the punching bag to bounce back.

I was declared the 1st runner-up of the contest. I was naturally disappointed and bruised by the result. I thought I did well but the judges must have thought otherwise. My club members were encouraging as they said I should take this defeat in a stride and with humility and this will make me a speaker in future.

Contesting was a great experience for me. I would not like to dwell too much on the defeat but remember the fact that many people who came to me and said it was inspiring and a good speech. So I guess I am a winner in other ways!

A Small Celebration

We had a small celebration 2 weeks ago. It was the ear piercing ceremony for my 3 months nephew Theenesh and a small celebration of my father's birthday. After all it has been some time that we had merriment after all the life's adventures we experienced in recent months.

My relatives and close family members graced the occasion. Of course my father wanted the celebration to be a surprise so only close family members know about it.

Food was prepared by the The Big Rajah Caterer where my cousin works. As usual the food tantalized everyone’s taste buds. We also had instantly cooked kuey tow for the vegetarians. Guests indulged in ice kacang, which was great for a hot night.We also had lamb chop...my favourite...but then i only took one piece this time around. Regretted it later, should have taken one more...he...he!


I too showed my creative talent that night. Since I have my own garden with flower plants, I decided to use them. I took small bowls, filled them with water, put some coloured flowers and put tea lights into them. I wanted to have green colour too…guess what I did…I plucked some curry leaves from the garden and added the dark green into the array of coloured flowers. Ha…ha…that’s my creative juices working.When everyone is showing off their inner talents, i too decided to take the first step of having it captured for the blog!

Then I had used Bel Air Fragrance Green Tea to give fragrance around the house. I was given this by a friend who came to see me during my chemo days. I got hooked to them. Whenever i use them it always reminds me of the chemo days for a few seconds.

Since it was Sunday night, the celebration ended early. The weather to was very accommodating, although it was hot, it did not rain...thank god for that.I must say everyone had a good time. The baby got hugged and kissed by almost everyone. It was a great day.

National Cancer Society of Malaysia, Relay For Life

National Cancer Society of Malaysia (NCSM) will be organizing their inaugural RELAY FOR LIFE Kuala Lumpur 2007 to raise funds.

I have been invited to be a volunteer for this grand happening, which will be held from 2-3 June 2007 at the MSN Training Stadium Bukit Jalil. During the same time other countries over the world too will be hosting this event. I did not know what this event until I volunteered. Relay for Life is a fund raising overnight team event in a carnival like atmosphere.

I just received all relevant leaflets and forms. I would have to disseminate this information among friends and acquaintances. And hope to raise some funds too…ha…ha!

This is really going to an exciting occasion because we would have to participate from 2 (6pm)-3(10am) June i.e spending a night over at the Stadium. I usually cannot keep awake by 10.30pm…he!….he!…this is going to interesting.

Relay For Life will start with a Survivors Lap where cancer survivors will proudly make the first lap around the track to celebrate their triumph against cancer. The finale will be the Luminaria Ceremony where candles will be place around the track as a tribute to survivors or in memory of loved ones.

People will all walks of life will make this a day to remember filled with memories, for some of battles won, for some of loved ones lost and for all to cherish life with laughter and joy!

Inspiring Others “N” In Return Inspired

As I said in my earlier post that I started my blog about a year ago. It is really amazing how this blog have connected to me to my blog visitors.

I have been receiving wonderful messages and comments from the various blog readers including my friends and acquaintance. It is the sharing of one’s encounter with breast cancer that inspire others.

The blog has help me to improved my writing skills tremendously… that includes my creativity in taking pictures…ha…ha! Even old acquaintances have been renewed…that is really great!

As this blog arouses people’s emotion, they too motivate us and up lift our spirits. Many times we survivors need these moral boosters too.

I end this post by a breathtaking statement from one of my blog visitors who said my blog showed “to take life positively irrespective of our pains”

My Birthday

Last Friday the 9th was my birthday. I took time off from work today. I wanted to have a different celebration this year. In the morning I wore my new sari, and went to the temple for prayers. During lunch I packed food from the restaurant and delivered to 3 families who are less fortunate. At night my friends took me out for a quite vegetarian dinner.

I started my blog last year with “Celebrating Birthday”. Wow a year of blogging has passed and so has my age. Ha….Ha!

Many friends sent me their greetings. I was really emotional touched with the words used in the birthday wishes.

Although this year was a quite celebration but it was filled with different kind of joys and pleasant blessings.

I woke up with a smile in that morning and when I went to bed that night, I had even a bigger smile!

HURRAY I HAVE TURNED 41!

Mastering Adversity, Against All Odds

I am preparing a motivational speech for my toastmasters speech contest. I did not know that preparing one could be so challenging. Yap, I have given talks as a cancer survivor but delivering a motivational speech is a different cup of tea altogether.

As I was browsing through the internet I came across this write up about W Mitchell: Mastering Adversity, Against All Odds. As I read the article, I was totally wonderstruck at his plethora of grit and will power to overcome tremendous challenges throughout his life. He refused to be defeated by the number of obstacles thrown at him.

When you read articles on great personalities like this, you are amazed and overwhelmed of the immeasurable self-confidence, determination and inner strength of an individual compared to others. It also made me wonder… how much inner control he must have had to manage and overcome his pain, trauma, depression and anxiety and yet at the end to smile at life.

Here we are going to our daily rigmaroles and challenges…whining and complaining. And in the process get stressed and lose the yeast for life.

It is always good to read magnanimous individuals often to remind ourselves of what we are also capable of.

Playing Doctor

I played the role of a doctor this week. My mother and I went to visit this family friend of ours. She is 76 years old. She told my mother that she could feel a lump on her left breast and it was painful. My mother quickly asked me to examine her. So she removed her blouse and I felt a lump there on her tender skin. What a new experience that was! My mother too felt it.

I did not want to raise an alarm so I just told her it may be nothing serious but it is best to get her physician to have a look. A mammography should be done immediately. Panic can be seen on her face even though we assured her there is nothing to worry about. She has never done a mammography in her life.

On our way home, I told my mother if it is cancer, would she be able to withstand surgery and treatment.

Two days after this my mother accompanied our friend and her husband to the medical center. A mammogram showed everything was normal….thank god for that. In fact the lump has disappeared.

She called me that night to tell me what transpired that day, sounding happy and cheerful.

Well! I was glad everything was alright.

2-Year Survivor-Valentine’s Day

As everyone celebrated Valentine Day, I too celebrated it for the love of life. Two years ago I has my mastectomy done on Valentine’s Day.

Last year I came down with flu so could not do anything and was on medical leave at home.

This year was different…not that I had a romantic candle light dinner…ha…ha!
My colleagues and I celebrated the day by going to MacDonalds. Fastfood…a no..no but then I just felt like it.

After work, I had toastmasters' meeting and so I had lots of laughter and had valentine chocolates. My mentor gave me a valentine’s gift. As the meeting finished and I was about to leave, a relatively new member came up to me and gave me a "sweet" gift and told me how I have inspired her so much. She remembered about my mastectomy as she had read it on my blog.

I was extremely touched by their gestures. It was a happy finished to a day for love...of many things...including friendship.

I can now declare myself a two-year-old cancer survivor.