The world of Tzu Chi March 2023 (Vol.145)

TZU CHI 145 23 shifted his mind. “It is okay. It does not help to complain and cry. Instead, it will only make things worse. I will face it positively, do the treatments and undergo surgeries as required, so that I can live longer and be there for my loved ones.” Even when he experienced cachexia, which may increase the risk of cancer recurrence, he accepted the diagnosis and faced the tribulations with the utmost positivity. Mun Thong recalled that in 2018, when the cancer spread to his lungs, he had to transfer to a hospital in Kuala Lumpur, where he underwent three surgeries. During that period, Tzu Chi volunteers in Johor Bahru informed the KL & Selangor counterparts about his condition, and that was how he met Mun Jen and learned about the CSG. He was very grateful for the sharing among the CSG members, which helped him to relax and face his treatments more calmly. Over time, he became aware of the lacking in similar welfare or charitable organisations like Tzu Chi CSG in the country for cancer patients. Often, many patients struggle to cope with the devastating negative emotions, leading to overall breakdowns. If similar charitable organisations like the Tzu Chi CSG were to be more commonly available to cancer patients, it would greatly reduce their fear and anxiety levels, through accessing the platform for information as well as getting to the support they need. Mun Thong’s approach to his treatments was to fully understand his treatment plans. He would ask why he was prescribed a particular medicine or treatment, the effectiveness, how his body would best tolerate the medicines, and the best way to ensure sufficient nutrition, etc. Subsequently, he gained a lot of medical knowledge while understanding and managing his illness. He would often share his knowledge and experiences willingly with others who might be new to the illness or find it hard to manage their treatments. “A doctor once said that I have become a ‘Master of illnesses’, but actually, I only hope to give other cancer patients positive energy and the understanding that having cancer does not mean complete hopelessness; it should be viewed as an opportunity for self-reflection that allows us to endeavour to elevate our lives to a higher plane.” There were scars left on Mun Thong’s body from many years of fighting cancer. His hip would hurt, causing his legs to tremble when he stands for long. Despite the pain, his spirit could not be dampened, nor his courage diminished. He said, “For the past nine years, I have focused on experiencing joy instead of dwelling on what I have lost. For many people, joy means simple happiness. It is an attitude towards life, to always be grateful and content. No matter what challenges or difficulties we face, we must believe that every day is a new beginning, full of hope. I am grateful that I am still alive and that I can still love and protect the people whom I care about. It is this gratitude that keeps me going…” Mun Thong expressed his hope that the CSG would not only celebrate its 9th anniversary, but also its 19th and 29th anniversaries, and continue to serve its roles in the years to come. He also hoped that there will be fewer cancer patients and diseases in the world, making it a better place for everyone.