It all started when Mr Teo noticed blood in his stool. This was a worrying sign. Consultation with a specialist in 2009 confirmed the news. Mr Teo had a cancerous polyp located close to the anus. He was 65 when the diagnosis was made. 

This type of cancer, known as colorectal cancer, is one of the top cancers affecting men and women above the age of 50 in Singapore today. His doctor suggested an immediate surgery (abdomino-perineal resection). Surgery would mean he would be unable to control his bowel movements and would have to wear a stoma bag for the rest of his life. Unable to decide on, Mr Teo decided to seek a second opinion. “The specialist told me my anus could be saved with surgery and radiotherapy. But the downside was a higher relapse rate. In other words, chances of the cancer coming back after treatment would be likely. That put me in a dilemma,” said Mr Teo.

Pondering over what to do next, Mr Teo was referred to a GP whose father had been diagnosed with colorectal cancer, gone for surgery, and now lives with a stoma bag. Mr Teo was curious about how he coped and made arrangements to meet.

The meeting between cancer survivor and cancer patient revealed many similarities between the two men. The former had undergone the same surgical procedure Mr Teo was advised to do and had been going about everyday life with a stoma bag. Mr Teo recalled, “we shared commons interests like playing badminton and swimming. Though I don’t do mountain trekking which he was into, I play basketball, jog, and cycle every week. Seeing what he was able to do after his surgery, I was convinced I could do the same and continue living my life normally with a stoma bag.”

By the end of this meeting, Mr Teo had made up his mind to go for surgery. There were other reasons that helped him to decide, such as how the cancer was at an early stage and easier to treat, the fear of relapse, and his overall positivity.

As a survivor today, Mr Teo openly shares his story with other patients. He is a member of the colorectal support groups in both Singapore General Hospital and Singapore Cancer Society. “The physical impact on my life after surgery is very minimal. I can manage with little adjustment. The social impact has been enriching. Having gone through a difficult cancer journey and benefitting from the pre-surgery meeting with an inspiring cancer survivor, I saw the value and importance of sharing with newly diagnosed patients. Together with my peers in the support group, we regularly reach out to share our stories with those who have been newly diagnosed, have just completed surgery, or will be going for the surgery soon,” said Mr Teo.

In addition, Mr Teo actively encourages friends and family to go for regular cancer screenings by registering for the Faecal Immunochemical Test (FIT) kit, which is available to Singaporeans and PRs at no charge.*

Every March, Singapore Cancer Society (SCS) organises the annual Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month (CCAM) Campaign for the general public. One key feature of the campaign is to encourage 50 years old and above members of public to get screened for colorectal cancer by using the FIT kit. The FIT tests for blood in the stool which is a sign of pre-colorectal cancer.

*SCS has ceased FIT kit distribution. Please collect your FIT kits through your Healthier SG healthcare provider, subject to screening eligibility. Kindly note that doctor consultation and screening test fees may apply.