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may feel overwhelming or difficult to articulate.
" The process creates a safe and supportive space for reflection. It allows patients to express their experiences more gently and often helps them reconnect with themselves during a very uncertain time."
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THE WHOLE PERSON |
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matter deeply. Some prioritise longevity, while others prioritise independence or being present for their children," Dr Marfu ' ah explained.
Listening to these priorities allows treatment plans to reflect what matters most to each patient. " My role is not just to treat cancer. It is to help patients walk through treatment with clarity, dignity, and as little fear as possible."
This approach becomes especially important when patients are coping with fear after diagnosis.
" Fear is a natural response. I often tell patients that it is normal to feel afraid. We will take this one step at a time, together."
By explaining treatment plans clearly and outlining available support, many patients begin to realise that a cancer diagnosis does not automatically mean the end of their life or identity.
" Modern cancer care is a partnership between the medical team, the patient, and their loved ones," she said.
THE EMOTIONAL JOURNEY
While medical advances play a vital role, cancer affects far more than the body alone. The emotional journey can be just as complex and challenging.
From the counselling perspective, Kuah Rui Ning sees cancer as a deeply personal experience that unfolds in stages. " At diagnosis, it often feels like a sudden storm. There is shock, disbelief, fear, and vulnerability. Many patients feel their world has paused."
As treatment begins, the emotional landscape shifts. " I often describe it as a marathon," she explained. " There is anxiety and determination at the start, but as side effects build, patients reach what I call the long middle."
Fatigue, emotional exhaustion, and loss of motivation are common during this phase. Yet, she also witnesses
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moments of unexpected strength. " Many patients realise they are stronger than they believed. They discover strength they never knew they had."
Survivorship, she added, can be equally complex. " While there is relief and hope, there can also be fear of recurrence and anxiety about trusting the body again. Learning to rebuild a sense of normal takes courage."
Across every stage, one need remains constant. " Patients want to be heard. They want to know their feelings are valid."
HELPING PATIENTS EXPRESS
From a counselling perspective, understanding how a patient is coping emotionally is an important part of care. Kuah explained that she often uses simple assessment tools, such as a distress thermometer, which allows patients to rate their emotional or physical distress on a scale.
" For many patients, feelings like fear or anxiety can be difficult to describe. This tool helps make those emotions more concrete and opens a conversation about what is truly weighing on them."
Beyond verbal conversations, she also incorporates expressive arts therapy for selected patients. Through drawing, colour, or creative expression, patients can communicate emotions that
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MIND MATTERS: Prioritising mental and psychological health in cancer care empowers individuals to navigate their emotions and strengths |
People-centred cancer care extends far beyond medical treatment. It is about supporting emotional, mental, and social well-being alongside physical health.
" To me, it is not just treating a disease. It is caring for the whole person. Said Kuah. Families and caregivers play an equally important role. Counselling helps strengthen these support systems by offering education, emotional support, and guidance in communication.
Research indicates that emotionally supported caregivers demonstrate improved coping abilities, greater confidence in their caregiving role, reduced anxiety, and enhanced marital and family relationships. Such interventions help caregivers feel better prepared and less distressed, which, in turn, is likely to lead to better patient outcomes.
LIVING BETTER WITH CANCER
Medical and psychological care are deeply connected. Emotional support has been shown to influence treatment tolerance, motivation, and overall well-being.
" When patients feel supported, we often see improvements in rest, appetite, and confidence. These factors affect how the body copes with treatment."
In challenging cases, such as patients undergoing intensive therapy for nasopharyngeal cancer, psychological care can help individuals persevere through difficult side effects.
" When patients understand their emotions and learn coping strategies, they move through treatment not as passive recipients, but as resilient individuals."
UNITED BY UNIQUE JOURNEYS
World Cancer Day reminds us that while cancer may look similar on scans or reports, no two journeys are ever the same. Being " United by Unique " means recognising that science and compassion must walk hand in hand. It means treating the disease while never losing sight of the person behind it.
Today, with advances in personalised medicine and a growing emphasis on emotional support, cancer care is no longer solely about survival. It is about helping patients live with meaning, dignity, and hope.- The HEALTH
Kuah Rui Ning
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