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After Mdm Nargis successfully defeated ovarian cancer in 2016, she didn’t expect another health scare just two years later. With unwavering support from her family, she emerged stronger, embracing life with renewed clarity and gratitude.

Life was rich and fulfilling for Mdm Nargis in her 50s. A devoted homemaker from Bangladesh, she took pride in caring for her two sons and found joy in the rhythms of family life; preparing meals, nurturing her loved ones, and creating a warm home.

But in 2015, everything changed. After a lingering period of feeling unwell, she went for a medical check-up. The diagnosis that followed was a heavy blow: ovarian cancer.

Ovarian cancer, which affects about one in every 90 to 100 women, happens when abnormal cells in the ovaries or fallopian tubes grow out of control and form a tumour.

“The news was devastating,” Mdm Nargis recalled. “I felt scared, confused, and overwhelmed.”

STAYING STRONG FOR FAMILY

The love she held for her family anchored her through the storm. Though her sons were already young adults, Mdm Nargis knew she had to stay calm to keep their spirits steady.

“I’ve always been the one my family leaned on,” she shared. “I could see how worried everyone was, especially my children. If I gave in to fear, it would only make it harder for them. I kept telling myself, ‘If I can stay strong, they will stay strong too.’”

Likewise, Mr Iqbal, her husband, echoed her sense of duty. “It was an incredibly painful moment when we found out. But I knew I had to be strong for her, so I coped by focusing on the practical next steps.”

CHOOSING CARE WITH COMPASSION

Determined to find the best care for Mdm Nargis, the family began researching treatment options, focusing on hospitals with advanced medical expertise and a strong track record in oncology. Despite the challenges of leaving their home country, they made the decision to travel to Singapore.

In 2016, she began treatment in Singapore. After several rounds of chemotherapy, she made a strong recovery and returned home, to the relief of her family.

ANOTHER SETBACK, ANOTHER FIGHT

But just two years later, in 2018, another curveball hit. During a routine follow-up, doctors found a lump in her neck. Further tests led the doctors to suspect thyroid cancer this time round.

“A second health scare in such a short time was a heavy blow!” Mdm Nargis remembered. “But I was thankful it was caught early.” This time, she underwent surgery at a specialist thyroid centre, followed by radioiodine therapy and chemotherapy.

The back-to-back battles were daunting at times. “There were moments when I felt hopeless,” Mdm Nargis admitted. “But my faith, my family, and the support of the medical team helped me to stay grounded.”

FINDING STRENGTH AWAY FROM HOME

Staying in Singapore for treatment both times meant being far from the familiarities of home.

“I missed my kitchen, my routines, and the comfort of home. I missed the small, ordinary things, cooking for my family, hearing laughter in the house,” Mdm Nargis shared.

Reminding herself that it was all temporary, she found solace in her faith and regular video calls with loved ones back home. The compassion shown by the medical team and the hospital’s comfortable facilities also left a profound impression. Mdm Nargis remembered, “The staff were like a second family. They would ask how I was feeling emotionally, and their care made all the difference.”

Shagufta, a staff from the Dhaka office supported Mdm Nargis and accompanied her during consultations, tests, and follow-up appointments. She shared, “At every chemotherapy session, I would encourage her, explain her take-home medication, and chat with her to try to lift her spirits.”

The family’s commitment to ensure the best care for Mdm Nargis also touched Shagufta, who noted, “The family’s deep bonds were truly inspiring. Her husband stood by her unwaveringly and committed to overseas treatment, not out of luxury, but out of love and the desire to do what is best for her.”

THE QUIET COURAGE OF CAREGIVING

Throughout both treatments in Singapore, Mr Iqbal remained her steadfast companion. “Being away from home was one of the hardest parts,” he said. “But we stayed connected with our children who sent us encouraging messages and prayers every day. That connection gave us strength.”

However, being the sole family caregiver in Singapore took its toll. Sometimes, after a long day at the hospital, he would sit quietly, feeling the weight of it all. It was on one such day that a nurse noticed his exhaustion and brought him a cup of tea, and talked with him. “Small acts like this reminded me that it was okay to be vulnerable and that I did not have to carry everything alone,” he shared.

Reflecting on his caregiving journey, Mr Iqbal advises fellow caregivers, “It is ok to feel tired and overwhelmed. You should eat well, sleep when you can, and take breaks. You will support your loved one better if you are well. Build a connection with the medical team. They are there to help both patient and caregiver. Lastly, keep in touch with family and friends. Emotional support is essential.”

A NEW CHAPTER OF GRATITUDE

Today, nearly a decade after the first diagnosis, Mdm Nargis is living a joyful life. Her journey had reshaped her life perspective.

“I appreciate the simple things much more. A good meal, a quiet evening, a walk in the garden. I have learnt to live in the moment and be kind to myself,” she shared. “I also remind those around me to take care of themselves and go for regular check-ups.”

For Mr Iqbal, the experience had brought an unexpected reward, proof that love and compassion can light the way through dark times. “It was a long and emotionally challenging journey but it brought us even closer as a couple,” Mr Iqbal says. “Being there for her every step of the way, sharing her struggles and supporting her recovery is something I will always cherish and be deeply grateful for.”

“There were moments when I felt hopeless, but my faith, my family, and the support of the medical team helped me to stay grounded.”
- Mdm Nargis