Hi, my name is Jason. I was a part-time taxi driver until I became diagnosed with stage 3 colorectal cancer.

The first symptom I experienced was non-stop bleeding when passing motion. I went for a checkup, and made an appointment for a colonoscopy at the hospital. They found a small lump, which turned out to be a tumor.

I did not make any changes to my lifestyle after diagnosis.

I have completed treatment and am now in remission. My doctor recommended that I undergo a partial colectomy to remove part of the colon, along with chemotherapy.

I faced financial difficulty because of the cost of operation. I paid for my treatment using my Medisave and insurance.

Because of the treatment, I had diarrhea and peripheral neuropathy. I also couldn’t drink cold drinks. I was prescribed Neurobion and diarrhea medicine to cope with these issues.

Ever since I was diagnosed, I stopped working and now, it’s not easy to find a job. I try not to think too much, and connect more with friends. I do spend more time with my kid as well.

I don’t have big dreams, aspirations, or concrete plans. Maybe I want to travel, but mostly I just want to continue life as-is, and just be a happy family together.

My biggest fear is that I won’t make it. I worried that my family would be sad. I told myself, don't think so much, try not to overthink. I also talked to my friends about this worry.

I’m optimistic now, even though I don’t know what will happen.

Like I said, once you have cancer, if you think too much, the next day you still have to overcome. Best is just let it go, live day by day. Who knows when the cancer will be back. Even doctors don't know if the cancer will come back.