Hi, my name is Kheng. I'm married with 5 kids. This is my cancer story.

Not too long ago, I had difficulty urinating and always felt bloated. Concerned, I sought medical attention and was ultimately diagnosed with stage 3 prostate cancer.

I've yet to receive treatment, but have decided on a treatment plan of radical prostatectomy, bilateral orchiectomy and radiation therapy. Additionally, I'm taking traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) as part of alternative treatment.

Less than a year ago, I had difficulties urinating and a persistent bloated feeling. This was concerning and prompted me to seek medical attention. Ultimately, I was diagnosed with stage 3 prostate cancer.

The harsh reality of my diagnosis led to significant changes in my lifestyle. Prioritizing my health, I made concerted efforts to modify various aspects of my daily routine. I embraced a healthier diet and reduced harmful habits, such as smoking and alcohol intake, recognizing their detrimental effects on my well-being.

Surgery Plan:

• Radical Prostatectomy — Removal of entire prostate gland
• Bilateral Orchiectomy — Removal of both testicles
  

Non-surgical treatment:

• Radiation therapy

I haven't received treatment yet as my diagnosis occurred not too long ago. However, I have decided on a treatment plan. My doctor recommended a radical prostatectomy, bilateral orchiectomy and radiation therapy and I proceeded with these recommendations after taking into account my own research on treatment options and financial considerations. Admittedly, I did feel anxious, discouraged and a little scared after deciding on this treatment plan. Apart from these treatment options, I also opted for traditional Chinese medicine (TCM).

Since undergoing cancer treatment, one significant lifestyle shift has been in my nutrition/diet. Now, I'm eating healthier every day of the week.

Besides the impact of cancer on my lifestyle, having prostate cancer has altered my bond with my children for the better. We spend more time hanging out together now, compared to the time before my cancer diagnosis.

My biggest dreams revolve around my children. I long to see them grow up and cherish every milestone along the way. I want nothing more than to spend quality time with them, creating memories that will last a lifetime. Whether it's playing in the park or sharing stories at home, every moment together is precious.

Throughout my journey to recovery, I'm most scared of the pain caused by cancer and the uncertainty of what might happen if I die. The fear of facing my mortality head-on was overwhelming, especially because my mother-in-law died from cancer. There is nothing I can do to overcome this fear, apart from talking to my doctors and confiding in my family about it.

Reflecting on how I feel now, the emotions I experience today are much the same as before — a mixture of anger, fear and sadness. It's like being trapped in a whirlwind of feelings.

This kind of thing (having cancer), sometimes, we need to accept that this is our fate. For me, I'm not sure if there's anything I can really do about it (being stage 3). If (it's) an earlier stage, maybe I still can. So if you have stage 1 or 2, make sure you do everything you can.