Download Reflections 2013 - Mount Miriam Cancer Hospital

2013 Issue 3 • Internal Circulation Only
WELCOME ON BOARD | Mr. John Lau (Chairman)
FROM THE DESK OF
THE CHAIRMAN OF
Mount Miriam Cancer Hospital
Season’s greetings from Mount Miriam Cancer
Hospital. In the next few days we say good bye to
2013 as we usher in the brand new year.
2013 has been an eventful year. Mr Lau Beng
Long retired as our chairman and I succeeded
him on 1 August. Mr Lau has kindly consented to
remain as a board member to ensure a smooth
transition as well as to continue to provide his
expertise in hospital administration. At the
same time we welcome a new board member,
Ms Agatha Foo, who is a lawyer by profession
and she brings with her a wealth of experience
not only in legal but also corporate matters. I
would also like to congratulate Dr Fabian Lee,
our Consultant Oncologist & Radiotherapist, for
his appointment as the Medical Superintendent
of MMCH with effect from 1 December. With
his vast clinical experience, the appointment
is timely as we move forward to serve the
community better. I am sure the board
and management look forward to all these
developments with a view of taking MMCH to
the next level.
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fulfilled a major portion of our Strategic Plan, we
have also completed the Health Screening Centre
and the purchase of C-Arm to aid Interventional
Radiology work.
We could not have achieved the above without
the support of members of the public, donors, the
corporate sector, philanthropists and friends who
share our mission of providing the best cancer
care at the most affordable cost. Our fundraising
events such as DanSing Thru Broadway, Charity
Fun Walk, Charity Raffle,The Inaugural Mazda
Charity Golf Tournament and many others were
very well received.
2014 will definitely be another busy and
challenging year for us as we strive to fulfil the
rest of the strategic plan of which the proposed
surgical centre will be of utmost priority. The
proposed surgical centre when materialised will
turn MMCH into a complete and comprehensive
cancer hospital.
I would like to take this opportunity to thank
the FMDM sisters for their confidence in me,
my fellow board members for their time and
Mindful of providing the best and effective
effort and advice, our doctors and consultants
cancer care, our newly acquired TomoTherapy
for their ethics and professionalism, our nursing
HD machine was commissioned in March. The
TomoTherapy HD machine is the premier solution staff for their dedication, management and staff
for their loyalty and hard work, our suppliers,
for the entire spectrum of radiation therapy —
that delivers dose only where you need it — with service providers and business associates for their
outstanding speed, performance and simplicity — continued support, the regulatory authorities for
their advice and support and last but not least
allowing our oncologists the freedom to choose
the very best treatment for each of their patients, our donors and the public for their generous and
unwavering support to all our fund raising events.
with confidence and without compromise. To
date, the results of this treatment have been most
encouraging. This machine was acquired at a cost On behalf of our board of directors, I wish you all
of RM14 million and funded by donations. To date a blessed Christmas and a joyous new year 2014.
Thank you.
we have raised approximately RM1.5 million
and our donation campaign is still on going.
Besides the TomoTherapy HD machine which
John Lau (Chairman)
CHRISTMAS GREETING | Ms. Tham Wei Wei (Chief Executive Officer)
In a few short weeks, we shall be saying farewell
to 2013 and the celebration to mark the end of
the year will commence as early as Christmas
Day. Most families in Malaysia would be busy
preparing their children for a new school year,
some may be making the best out of the last
few weeks of holidays, some may even be
struggling to make ends meet. Let’s not waste
time in reflecting as usual on what may have
been and what could have been, let’s spend
some time expressing GRATITUDE!
Be thankful for what we have and not regret
what we have lost.
Be thankful for being able to give and not upset
about no returns.
Be thankful for being able to love and not hate.
Be thankful for everything that had been
bestowed on you even though it may not seem
appropriate now.
To the Board of Directors, FMDM sisters and
all the MMCH staff, my most sincere gratitude
for all that you have done for the hospital and
the patients. It had been a busy year, again
full of challenges but your efforts, passion
and commitment had shown that nothing is
impossible and we should be thankful that we
have indeed made a difference.
Let the Christmas spirit work its magic on all
of us. Let us embrace it and pass it on. Lift
someone’s spirit with a smile, make someone’s
day with a hug, give someone peace of mind
with a comforting word, spread the love and joy.
Then be ready to experience magic!
To all our benefactors and volunteers, a
big THANK YOU. Your kind support and
generosity is greatly appreciated and your kind
contribution had touched someone’s life, and
I hope that your lives will be enriched by this
experience of sincere giving.
May all your h olidays be h appy and
may you h a ve a year blessed with
peace, joy, lo ve and abu ndance.
Merry Ch ristmas and
a Happy N ew Year!!
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GREETING | You can Count on Me
YOU CAN COUNT
ON ME
Another year has gone rather quickly. As we
reflect on this year, we ask ourselves how we
have been instruments of Peace and Trust in
serving our patients and encouraging one
another in Mt Miriam Hospital.
This year we chose to work on the Franciscan
value of Trust. Our slogan, “You can count on
me” is a meaningful one. Those we care for can
feel our compassion as caregivers, only when
we are able to count on one another.
Thank you for taking the steps – both big
and small - across departments to make this
value and theme come alive. It must have
been difficult in many ways. Amidst heavier
workload, patience and tolerance wear out at
times. Nonetheless, you tried your best being
aware of the need to reach out and support one
another, taking steps to develop yourselves and
contributing as team players to support this goal.
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This year, we saw more child patients receiving
radiation treatment. This is sad. But, we also
saw how the tender loving care of our staff had
lessened their fears and anxiety, bringing smiles
to their little faces.
Thank you too, to our volunteers, benefactors
and supporters. We would not have gotten this
far without your contributions to the hospital’s
growth and well-being.
Many of you may be familiar with the famous
song “Count on Me” by Bruno Mars. The lyrics
especially “If you ever find yourself stuck in the
middle of the sea, I’ll sail the world to find you.
If you ever find yourself lost in the dark and you
can’t see, I’ll be the light to guide you…… You
can count on me like 1,2,3 …I’ll be there ….”
gives this happy feeling and lightness to the
heart.
As St Francis of Assisi said “Start
These is exactly what we, as a team are, striving
for Making Mount Miriam Hospital a place of
friendship, care and love for both employees
and patients.
Sr M Cyrilla fmdm
by doing
what is necessary, then do what is possible
and suddenly, you will be doing the
impossible”.
Once again thank you, Christmas blessings and
peace be upon you and your families always.
Mission Awareness
(on behalf of the Executive team and
FMDM Sisters)
WELCOME ON BOARD | Dr. Lim Jian Jyh
New Medical Officer Onboard
Dr. Lim Jian Jyh completed her high
school at SMK Tunku Putera, she further
pursued MBBS in University of Malaya and
graduated in 2009. She then completed 2
years of compulsory attachment in Kulim
General Hospital. During the houseman
ship, Dr. Lim Jian Jyh was posted to
various areas such as medicine, surgery,
pediatric, orthopedics, ocstetrics &
gynaecology and trauma & emergency.
She also worked in Baling Hospital as
Medical Officer for 2 years before joining
Mount Miriam. During her free time, she
enjoys shopping and also reading.
WHAT’S UP | Pink Your Life!
Find us in Youtube to see what’s happening!
Search “Pink Your Life 2013” (Breast Cancer Awareness)
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FUND RAISING EVENT | DanSing Thru Broadway Charity Concert
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Prepared by Keith Tan
(Community Relations Assistant Manager)
Photographs by
Sunnysan Photography and Hwa Sze Suen
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FUND RAISING EVENT | DanSing Thru Broadway Charity Concert
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Penang was once again illuminated with the
Broadway lights when Farah Sulaiman & Friends
brought their production – “DanSing Thru
Broadway” to Penang. Mount Miriam Cancer
Hospital was proud to bring the team back to
the island to raise fund for her new Tomo HD
Machine.
This round, the shows at 3.00pm and 8.30pm
on 21 September 2013, were held in
penangpac @ Straits Quay.
This colourful, toe-tapping and exiting
“DanSing Thru Broadway” is a musical revue
of Broadway’s famous hitsongs and being
choreographed by the wonderful Farah
Sulaiman and directed by the famous Sabrina
Hassan, the team that brought us “Sparks Of
Broadway” in 2011.
The plot - When Karim, an out of work
graduate, meets Grey, a theatre producer, he
is brought on a journey through the world of
Broadway. Karim soon realizes that Broadway
musicals are not just bits of fluff and light
entertainment but are slices out of our daily
lives. Grey takes Karim under his wing and is
determined to help him out. He tells Karim the
story of “Hello! Dolly” where Cornelius and
Barnaby present themselves as millionaires
to attract their dream girls; thus their journey
begins.
Some of the musical highlights featured are
like the colourful and catchy “Sunday Clothes”
from Hello Dolly!; the psychedelic “Aquarius”
from Hair and the glittering “Shake Your Groove
Thing” from Priscilla Queen Of The Dessert; the
red cheongsam-cladded “Fan Tan Fannie” from
Flower Drum Song; the funny parody “Welcome
To The 60s” from Hairspray, the evergreen
“I’d Do Anything For You” from Oliver; the
toe-tapping “Put On A Happy Face” from Bye
Bye Birdie, the magical “One Short Day” from
Wicked and many more.
Thank you Farah Sulaiman & Friends.
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FUND RAISING EVENT | Charity Fun Walk 2013
Prepared by Ang Sher Lyn (Community Relations Officer)
Photographs by Hwa Sze Suan and Bryant Yow
Even “Spiderman”
joined in the walk!
YB Dr Afif alongside
Dato’ Wong reaching the
finishing line.
SGGS Vivacious Cheerleaders
threw a splendid performance
during the event!
The Management Team
played their part in fun
costumes to spread lung
cancer messages too!
Children and trainees from
Celebral Spastic Centre came
to inspire the community!
Pop for a great start!
Getting ready for the walk!!
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Fun walkers with their fun costumes!
MMCH lab staff Ms Aida with
her family along the walk!
Even the elderly joined
in the walk!
It was a colourful Sunday morning walk filled
with fun costumes, vibrant atmosphere and
fighting spirit towards cancer joined by all
walks of life, including the cancer survivors,
the underprivileged and physically challenged
community. These people were gathered for
three reasons, to help raise funds for needy
cancer patients, to promote cancer awareness
and most importantly, to practise healthy
lifestyle for the betterment of health.
Ready to welcome back
the participants!
“High five! Welcome back!”
heartwarming moments were the tremendous
effort and support from groups of participants
who carried placards, signage and banners to
promote lung cancer awareness!
Nevertheless, the Best Dressed Champion went
to Mr Michel Yeow Loy Gregory who dressed
up as a cowboy with his guitar decorated with
“No Smoking!” signs. He also played a few
melodious songs to cheer up the participants
while walking and playing the guitar at the
same time. The Best Dressed First and Second
Mount Miriam Cancer Hospital (MMCH)
runner-up, Mr Philip Ch’ng and Mr Khoo Choon
has organized a 3.5KM fund raising Charity
Hao, have also dressed up in a cigarette hat and
Fun Walk in conjunction with Lung Cancer
Awareness month at Straits Quay, Penang on 10 a Mario outfit with creative cancer messages
November 2013 from 7am to 11am. More than respectively.
1,000 fun walkers spent their Sunday morning
As for the Best Dressed Group category, The
walking for a great cause in aid of MMCH
Needy Cancer Patient Fund as well as to join in Avengers won with fantastic outfits with a Do-ItYourself Spongebob Squarepants costume and
the fun while spreading lung cancer messages
a cut-out lung signage to convey the message.
with fun costumes.
Agilent Technologies also won the Most
Participants Group with a total number of 71
Some were seen dressed up in Spiderman
participants who signed up for the event!
outfit, some dressed up as cartoon characters,
and some even dressed up as fairies to spread
This event was also flagged off by Penang
love and joy to everyone. However, the most
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FUND RAISING EVENT | Charity Fun Walk 2013
Astro Ben Di Quan celebrities playing games with the participants.
Fun walkers with their fun costumes!
Convent Light Street teachers and students showing their support!
MMCH Fundraising
Committee Chairman Dato’
Wong presenting souvenir
to Guest-of-honour YB Dr
AfifBahardin.
Awww!
Montessori Nursery Centre has done a
great job in spreading the messages!
State Executive Councillor for Agricultural,
Agro-based Industries, Rural Development
and Health YB Dr Afif bin Bahardin. alongside
MMCH Board Members, FMDM Sisters and the
Astro Ben Di Quanlocal celebrities, Min, Shi
Ying and Jordan.
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Agricultural Chemicals staff
showing their support!
Be Clear!
adorable children show “The Lion Sleeps
Tonight” and “Gummy Bears” by Montessori
Nursery Centre which made the audience went
“Aww!”.
Charity Fun Walk aims to spread a message if
a person leads a healthy lifestyle, it reduces
the risk of cancer and it helps saves lives.
There was also an array of fun activities
Lung cancer is actually the most commonly
prepared for every participant such as clowns
diagnosed cancer among Malaysian men
giving out balloons and bringing joy to the
and 8th most common cancer in Malaysian
fun walkers, stilt walker cheering for the
women. MMCH Consultant Oncologist and
participants, beautiful body art and henna art
Radiotherapist Dr Fabian Lee said close to
painting by Stella-In Beauty Academy, magic
show and many more! The local celebrities also 70% of cancer deaths in Lung cancer patients
can be attributed to lifestyle related factors.
joined in the fun by playing interactive games
Hence, apart from raising funds for the needy
with the participants. There were also upbeat
cancer patients, this event is a perfect platform
Zumba and Hip-Hop performance by Zero
to spread the importance of cancer awareness
Fitness Dance Studio, energetic cheerleading
especially lung cancer as well as to promote
performance by the award-winning SGGS
healthy lifestyle among public.
Vivacious Cheerleading squad and the
Our Champion of Best Dressed Winner
Mr Michel, the Cowboy Singer!
Wings of love from our supporters!
1st Runner-Up Best Dressed Winner
Mr Philip Ch’ng the Cigarette Man with
lung cancer message!
Zumba dance by dancers from Zero
Fitness Dance Studio!
Wan Ling
Beauty
Academy
showing their
support with
their placards!
The Great Grant
Thornton staff posing for
the camera!
Therefore, on behalf of the FMDM sisters and
management of MMCH, the hospital would
like to express their gratitude to all donors and
volunteers who have supported and contributed
to the event. The hospital would also like to
extend the sincere appreciation to the sponsors,
Soul Balance and Sunway Lost World of Tambun
as the main sponsors, Straits Quay as the
venue sponsor, the Penang Amateur Athletics
Association (PAAA) as the technical advisor,
Astro Ben Di Quan as the official media, Penang
Municipal Council (MPPP) for supporting the
event, Stella-In Beauty Academy and Zero
Fitness Dance Studio.
Other sponsors include BARKATH CO-RO
Manufacturing Sdn Bhd, F&N Coca-Cola
(Malaysia) Sdn Bhd, Maestro Swiss, Cap
Keluarga, Golden Crust, Flamingo Hotel,
Campbell House, Gold Coast Morib Resort,
2nd Runner-Up Best Dressed Winner
Mr KhooChoonHao the Mario!
CGT Quick Printers, Dolphin Printing, Awimo
Media Sdn Bhd, FTG Media Sdn Bhd, YES
Media Sdn Bhd, Cyclon Cycle Industries
Sdn Bhd, The Owl and Camera Museum,
Parkroyal Hotel, Evergreen Laurel Hotel, Jaben
Network Malaysia, Kinderdijk Sdn Bhd, Five27
Restaurant, Golden Screen Cinemas, Fruuze
Enterprise, Lone Pine Hotel, Hard Rock Hotel,
G Hotel, Cititel Hotel, Bayview Hotel, Holiday
Inn Resort, Dummy Dumb Dumb Entertainment,
Eagle & Pagoda Brand TeckAun Medical Factory
SdnBhd, MP Jewel House, Blue Reef Fish &
Chips Restaurant, Rofina Swiss, Huey&Wah
Café, DeEggz Design, Il Bacaro Venetian
Restaurant and Nestle.
Last but not least, from the bottom of our
hearts, our heartiest congratulations to all the
winners and a big thank you to all volunteers,
donors and participants for Charity Fun Walk!
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DIETARY CORNER | Way to add Protein in Food
Prepared by Marcus Lee (Dietitian)
You have known the importance of protein during cancer
treatment, now is time to learn how to add protein into your diet
when you are undergoing treatment. Homemade milkshakes or
smoothies are very useful when patient have difficulty to swallow,
taste changes, poor appetite or weight loss. When made with
some energy-boosting and protein-rich ingredients, these drinks
pack with calories and protein in just one glass.
Sample recipe for a high energy high protein drinks:
HI-PROTEIN ICED MOCHA LATTE
Ingredients:
250ml of full cream milk
1 cup of vanilla ice cream
4 rounded tablespoons of powdered milk (non-fat)
2 teaspoons of instant coffee (can use flavored like “hazelnut”)
2 teaspoons of cocoa powder
2 teaspoons of sugar
Add additional water if you like a thinner shake
Method:
1) Place all ingredients in a blender.
2) Cover and blend on high speed until well mixed.
3) Chill drinks / add ice cubes before serving.
Nutritional values (per serving):
energy: 575 calories, protein: 21 grams
Reference:
Tell Me What to Eat Before, During, and After Cancer Treatment.
Jodi Buckman Weinstein. 2011. Advantage Quest Publication.
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FUND RAISING EVENT | Sentral College Penang Pinktober Charity Run
PINKTOBER Charity Run from
Sentral College Penang
Prepared by Keith Tan
(Community Relations Assistant Manager)
PINKTOBER High Heels Charity Run on 28
October 2013 at Taman Rekreasi, Taman
Manggis (the field opposite Sentral College)
from 8.00am till 9.30am. PINKTOBER High
Heels Charity Run is an activity organized by
the club to create awareness among Sentral
community about the Breast Cancer. The
purpose of this event is to educate and expose
the Sentral Community about Breast Cancer
month which is celebrated worldwide yearly in
October. In conjunction with this event, UCSA
has also raised fund for donation to Mount
Miriam Cancer Hospital. The High Heels Charity Run was opened to both
male and female students and staff of SENTRAL
College. We hope to encourage more male staff
and students to participate in this activity, to
make them a more caring and understanding son,
brother, boyfriend and husband to their mother,
sister, girlfriend and wife, besides understanding
ladies difficulties of wearing high heels in
workplace, events and shopping. The club has set
up a booth in the college to recruit participants
for this event from 1 October 2013 till 25 October
2013 daily from 9.00 am until 4.00pm.
The participants need to pay RM18 for
registration and each participant were given a
t-shirt. In order to attract more participants, we
also have early bird discount for participants
who have registered earlier and they are
only required to pay RM15 per participation.
We have managed to attract 30 participants
to join this event. Medals were given to the
Top 6 Finalists who finished the run and
certificates were given to participants who
have completed the run within the time frame.
UCSA has managed to a raise a total amount of
RM1,000.00 and the fund will be channeled to
Mount Miriam Cancer Hospital.
FUND RAISING EVENT | “Gains” Green & Health Exhibition
“Gains” Green & Health Exhibition
“Gains” Green & Health
Exhibition was organized
Prepared by Jenny Ooi (Senior Manager, Community Relations & Communications) with the main aim to increase
awareness of going green
& healthy lifestyle among
the public. The event was
jointly organized by Persatuan
Pencinta Alam dan Kesihatan
(PPAK), IHS Group, Penang
Green Council and Lions
Club – Pearl of the Orient. The
event benefited Mount Miriam
Cancer Hospital’s Needy
Cancer Patient Fund and
Rumah Seri Cahaya.
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WHAT’S UP | Health Talks in Masyarakat Penyayang
Battle Against
Cancer
Prepared by Candi Chong (Assistant Manager,
Corporate Development)
The message was loud and clear: unite in efforts
and battle against cancer! A community event
hosted by Mount Miriam Cancer Hospital (MMCH)
and co-sponsored by Abbott Nutrition and
Janssen was held at the Caring Society Complex
on 7 September 2013 by the MMCH’s Consultant
Oncologists, Nurses, Dietitian, Marketing and
Community Relations team.
it forms, the risk factors for developing cancer,
what radiation is, the different challenges and
advancements in cancer treatment and early
detection and prevention.
Subsequent talk was presented by oncologist
and radiotherapist Dr Fabian Lee, entitled
“Prostate Cancer – Therapeutic Options”. This
is one of the hot topics in male cancers as it
affects the lifestyle of the male population.
Treatment options were detailed clearly by
Dr Fabian, who also shared the life-changing
The event started with free glucose screening
experiences his prostate cancer patients went
for 200 visitors and diet counselling. This
through and how the disease affects the libido
was followed by the first of two cancer talks:
of the patient, thus potentially affecting spousal
“Myths & Facts About Cancer” by oncologist
relationships while one is undergoing treatment.
and radiotherapist Dr Doris Chow who shared
However, these effects are often temporary and
information regarding what cancer really is, how will improve with the patient’s condition.
A HELPING HAND | Merdeka Line Dancing Carnival
Merdeka Line Dancing Carnival 2013
Prepared by Jenny Ooi (Senior Manager, Community Relations & Communications)
More than 600 line dancing enthusiasts
gathered at Sunshine Square Banquet Hall and
danced to their heart’s content. They danced to
50 familiar tunes for 5 hours.
This Merdeka Line Dancing Carnival 2013 was
jointly organized by the Bayan Baru Welfare
Association and Bayan Baru Rukun Tetangga
(Ladies Wing) with the joint cooperation of
Sunshine Wholesale Mart Sdn Bhd.
This event is aimed to promote healthy lifestyle
through Line Dancing and early screening.
Mount Miriam Cancer Hospital was on hand
to offer free clinical breast examination, blood
pressure check and body mass index check.
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A HELPING HAND | Needy Cancer Patient
NEEDY
CANCER
PATIENT
Prepared by Jenny Ooi
(Senior Manager Community Relations &
Communications)
Since a young age, Mr Tan has been a smoker.
At the age of 43 yrs old, Mr Tan has been
diagnosed stage 4 nasopharyngeal cancer
which led to swelling at his right neck.
With encouragement from our consultant
and Kwang Wah readers, Mr Tan has decided
to stop all form of alternative treatment and
proceeded with 6 cycles of chemotherapy.
3 years ago, upon diagnosis, Mr Tan was offered
treatment by the Penang General Hospital for
Chemo & Radiation. For the fear of not able
to withstand the treatment side effects, Mr Tan
decided to seek alternative medicine since then.
As at press time, Mr Tan had completed 3 cycles
of chemotherapy. His pain level is very much
under control. His quality of life has improved
tremendously.
In May 2013, Mr Tan’s neck swelling grew
bigger; the pain level was unbearable. Mr Tan
was diagnosed as palliative patient then. Mr
Tan has since not been able to work. He has
also exhausted his savings due to numerous
alternative treatment he had gone through. Mrs
Tan too had to quit her job to take care of him.
They have 2 school-going children aged 13 & 16.
Mr Tan’s case was highlighted by Kwong Wah
Yit Poh, Mount Miriam team visited Mr Tan
at his home to get more information and to
encourage him on. Within 2 days, we arranged
for Mr Tan to seek consultation with one of our
Consultant Oncologist.
“ I am so happy to see my husband’s condition
has improved tremendously. He is determined
to continue his treatment and we pray for his
recovery. “ Mrs Tan Said.
Mount Miriam, under our Needy Cancer Patient
Fund has committed to waive the full treatment
cost for Mr Tan.
We take this opportunity to thank members
of the public, corporate companies and
foundations for your continuous support. It is for
your support that we are able to assist patients
like Mr Tan, giving them hope and better
quality of life. Thank you for living the “By the
Community, for the Community” spirit.
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FUND RAISING EVENT | Pink October with Hard Rock
It’s PINK OCTOBER
with Hard Rock Penang
Prepared by Vriczen Lim (Community Relations Officer)
Models of the night!
Mount Miriam’s staff in the house!
Hard Rock Penang once again organized a
fund raising event in the month of October
in conjunction with Breast Cancer Awareness
benefiting Mount Miriam Cancer Hospital.
The hotel held a Get Pinked! Cocktail Party in
its ballroom where models paraded in corsets
from Corsetme and pieces of jewelleries from
Vanessa Diamonds.
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Three oncologists and a staff of Mount Miriam
Cancer Hospital took centrestage while
doing some modelling in their own wears
and escorted the models on stage. There was
also a Body Art show by Cindy and a lingerie
Survivors were invited to the party.
fashion show by Xixili. A silent auction was
carried out with items like room stays and
cruises.
Hard Rock Penang also put their limited
edition merchandises up for sale – stickers,
pink umbrellas and pins.
A total of RM30,000.00 were donated to the
hospital from the hotel.
Let us continue to fight against cancer, spread
more awareness to the community, continue to
uphold the warrior spirit.
FUND RAISING EVENT | Penang Irish Association
YOU ARE NOT ALONE
5th Luscious Ladies Day in Shades of Pink
Prepared by Jenny Ooi (Senior Manager, Community Relations & Communications)
It was asea of Pink at the E&O Hotel ballroom.
About 300 cancer survivors, their family
supporters dressed in pink attended the very
well received morning breakfast cum fundraiser.
The event, was jointly organised by the
Penang Irish Association (PIA), Food Friends
Penang, Amee Philips Exclusive Jewellery and
E&O Hotel in aid of Mount Miriam Cancer
Hospital and Rumah Hospice Penang. Besides
fundraising for both beneficiaries, it was also
aimed at raising awareness on breast cancer.
Jennifer Hartner shared her experiences with
the crowd. Her mother was diagnosed with
breast cancer while she was at a tender age of
10. A decade later, the cancer returned. Her
mother soon lost her battle to cancer.
“It was the scariest experience anyone
could endure.Since then, I’ve had yearly
mammograms and several years ago, I found
out I had the BRCA gene, which carries a high
risk of me developing breast cancer.” Jennifer
said.
Jennifer had then decided to have double
mastectomy as preventive measure. She
encouraged all to have early screening as it
could potentially save lives.
CEO of Mount Miriam Cancer Hospital, Ms
Tham Wei Wei confirmed that the fund raised
would be used to offset the purchase of the
RM13.5mil Tomo-Therapy treatment machine.
The Tomotherapy is able to irradiate tumours
with better accuracy.
The breakfast morning ended with the crowd
sang You Are Not Alone’ to affirmed each other.
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DOWN MEMORY LANE | FMDM 50th Anniversary
FMDM: Praise God for 50
Amazing Years in Malaysia
Sr Baptista & Dr Peter Tan Ewe Aik, MMCH’s
1st volunteer doctor showing hospital
facilities to -----
FMDM sisters received donation
from a donor in the early years.
It all started in the early 1960’s when the Sisters
of the Franciscan Missionaries of the Divine
Motherhood (FMDM) began our mission in Ipoh,
Perak. We were responding to the need to reach
out to the poor, sick and needy - both physically
and psychologically.
Sr Baptista discussing with architect
on MMCH building plan.
experienced and suffered the toll of cancer
himself, He realised how lacking specialised
cancer medical and nursing care were at that
time. His wish was to have a place set up solely
for cancer patients. Little did he realise what
a huge impact that desire had on the growing
number of cancer patients we are treating today.
Our charism is nurturing life - seen in the areas of
medical ministry, teaching (formal and informal), It was an uphill mission. After all, what did
religious sisters know about undertaking such an
parish ministry, and counselling, migrant and
‘formidable’ task.
pastoral ministry. Healthcare is one of the many ways in which
the FMDM fulfils its mission. This is very much
reflected in the many hospitals set up by the
FMDM across the world.
In Malaysia, our FMDM history goes back to
as early as the 1960’s. The sisters started Our
Lady’s Children Hospital from 1964 to 1983. In
its pioneer years, it provided medical services for
children, general and maternity patients
The Sisters then continued their mission working
with the Brothers of Mercy at Fatimah Hospital,
Ipoh.
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In 1974, the Sisters, at the invitation of the
late Bishop Francis Chan of Penang; having
But with God’s grace, nothing is impossible
- recalled the pioneer sisters, some of whom
are still serving the hospital today. From the
very beginning, it was to be a hospital ‘for the
community and by the community’. We were
blessed by people with the relevant skills,
financial standing and commitment towards the
cause to care for cancer sufferers. Somehow,
God has always helped us even to this day.
On 21st February 1976 the late Bishop Gregory
Yong, then Bishop of Penang, declared Mount
Miriam Hospital (MMH) officially open.
In its first few years, MMCH offered palliative
care to terminally ill patients. With the foresight
of the management team the hospital started
radiation treatment for patients besides
chemotherapy service available at that time. The
hospital then began to care for both curable and
incurable cancer cases.
To this day, Mount Miriam Cancer Hospital
continues to grow as a not-for-profit, single
discipline cancer hospital offering affordable
new advance services and treatment facilities.
Supporting this mission is a team of dedicated
medical and supporting services staff, volunteers
and benefactors- working alongside the FMDM
Sisters.
At MMCH, the FMDM Sisters currently take on
the role of Mission Awareness, Pastoral Care,
and Patient Education Programme. The Sisters
are seen at the forefront of many fundraising
events of the hospital. In 1990, we began our ministry in Port Klang.
The initiative is to provide holistic education and
care to relieve the plight of poor families with
children started in the squatter areas. This led to
the formation of the Educare Ministry in line with
FMDM’s Chapter call to keep the poor at heart.
With the strong support of the then Archbishop
Soter’s, who invited the sisters to the diocese
and a good number of dedicated volunteers,
Educare impacted many.
Presently, Our Lady’s Convent in Ipoh, has a
group of sisters caring for our own elderly Sisters
Sr Jennifer Chan, offering Pastoral
Care service to patient.
who have given a significant part of their lives
serving God’s people. The community’s special
ministry is to pray.
The Sisters of the Franciscan Missionaries of
the Divine Motherhood [FMDM] celebrated 50
years in Malaysia on 16 September 2013 at St
Michael’s Church in Ipoh. In a fitting tribute to the Sisters, the chief
celebrant, the Papal Nuncio Archbishop Joseph
Salvador Marino said:
“For the past fifty years of your presence in
Malaysia, you have shared the love, which was
poured into your hearts with the waters of
Baptism, with one another and with those around
you through your countless works of charity in
various parts of this country. As a result of your
tireless efforts, in a constant and deliberate
way, others, even those who are not Christians,
have come to know the depth, the width and
height of Christ’s love for all peoples. You have
accomplished a great work of love.”
For FMDM, this milestone is truly a salute
to the generosity and support of our caring
community. Please join us, FMDM in Malaysia
and worldwide, to praise God and give thanks
for the opportunity to serve these 50 years and
more in the future. God bless you!
By Sr M Cyrilla fmdm
FMDM sisters spent fun and quality time with patients.
FMDM sisters sharing light moment.
“A single sun beam is enough to drive away many shadows.” St. Francis of Assisi
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A HELPING HAND | Community Screenings Project
COMMUNITY SCREENING PROJECT
at St. Paul’s Church
Prepared by Ang Sher Lyn (Community
Relations Officer)
A community screening project was organized
by Mount Miriam Cancer Hospital on 24
August at St. Paul’s Church Penang! The
hospital medical officer Dr Yeoh Cheng Wooi
and the staff nurses were on hand to offer free
community screenings and health talk to about
60 participants at St. Paul’s Church. They were
also given free Blood Pressure and Body Mass
Index (BMI) checks with consultation. Dr Yeoh
also explained about cancer and diet as well as
how to maintain a healthy lifestyle during the
health talk.
We would like to thank St. Paul’s Church Penang
and the participants for supporting the event.
WHAT’S UP | Blood Donation
Blood Donation Campaign At Lecture Hall,
Mount Miriam Cancer Hospital
On 16 August 2013, Mount Miriam Cancer
Hospital (MMCH) organized a Blood Donation
Campaign at Level 2 Lecture Hall of MMCH
with the help of Blood Bank GHPP personnel.
This blood donation was in aid of Blood Bank
General Hospital Pulau Pinang (GHPP). The
main purpose of the activity is to top up the
blood stock of Blood Bank GHPP since Blood
Bank is normally low in supply during festival
season. The blood donation campaign started
at 9am and ended by 12pm. We successfully
collected 30 bags of blood within 3 hours for
Blood Bank GHPP. Thank you very much to all
donors and all who tried but did not comply
with the requirement for blood donation.Your
contributions are much appreciated. Hope to
receive greater support in next Blood Donation
Campaign for the good cause.
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Prepared by Ong Chiew Wai (Senior Lab Executive)
WHAT’S UP | Can-Lah!
Prepared by
Jenny Ooi
(Senior Manager,
Community
Relations &
Communications)
Hard Rock Hotel Penang organises numerous philanthropic events each year,
one of which is the “Can-lah” Food Drive under the global Imagine There’s
No Hunger campaign. This is an initiative to make collections of canned food
from the community. Which was donated to the needy. Mount Miriam Cancer
Hospital is proud to partner Hard Rock Hotel Penang for this worthy cause.
Together, Mount Miriam staff collected 76kg worth of food items in support of
“ Can-Lah “ Food Drive. Great job guys !!!
WHAT’S UP | Lung Cancer Awareness Talk
LUNG CANCER
~ Am I At Risk
Why stop puffing can save your lives!!!
With all the risk factors, it’s amazing that cigarettes
are not banned completely. Mount Miriam Cancer
Hospital (MMCH) oncologist and radiotherapist
Dr Rakesh Raman recently shared the benefits of
quitting smoking immediately at a public lecture
entitled “Lung Cancer - Am I At Risk?” on 9th
November 2013. Held at the hospital
In fact, Dr Rakesh said smokers who quit the
habit in the first 10 years could close to zero
their risk of developing the cancer and obtain a
risk profile similar to that of a non-smoker. This
was due to the fact that smoking contributes
to about 90% of lung cancer cases with the
remaining percentage coming from factors like
pollution and toxins in the air. A total of 30% of
second-hand smokers faced the risk of getting
Prepared by Candi
Chong (Asst
Manager, Corporate
Development)
lung cancer as cigarette smoke contained over
70 cancer-causing chemicals (carcinogens).
Sadly, lung cancer can hardly be cured unless it
is detected early.
One should look out for lung cancer symptoms
like unexplained weight loss, coughing up bloody
phlegm, having breathing difficulties or chest
pains. Should any of these appear, one should seek
medical assistance immediately. Dr Rakesh added
that we should take control by saying ‘no’ instead
of going for another puff. He said there are things
that are out of our control, like pollution, toxins and
the presence of certain gasses.
On sharing methods to quit smoking, he left the
audience with one good message: “Quit today, not
only for yourselves but also for your loved ones”.
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FUND RAISING EVENT | Mazda Charity Golf Tournament
Mazda Charity Golf drums up RM107,000
for Mount Miriam Cancer Hospital
Prepared by Jenny Ooi (Senior
Manager, Community Relations
& Communications)
Mr HidesukeTakesue - Deputy General Manager, Global Sales & Marketing Div.,
Dato Ben Yeoh – Managing Director Bermaz Motor , Mr Masahiro Moro Managing
Executive Officer MMC Japan , Dato AmerHamzah – Executive Director Prima
Merdu , Dato Francis Lee – Executive Director Bermaz Motor.
The game of golf was an ideal platform to foster good working relationships and encourage the
spirit of giving. This was a testament to Mazda Charity Golf Tournament when they successfully
raised RM107,000 in aid of Mount Miriam Cancer Hospital’s Tomo Fund.
More than 120 golfers, mainly their employees, business partners, vendors and suppliers took
part in this friendly tournament which was held at the Kelab Golf Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah on 14th
November 2013.
Bermaz Motor Sdn Bhd Managing Director Dato’ Ben Yeoh said “As a socially responsible citizen,
we strive to make a difference in enriching the lives of those who are financially challenged,
underprivileged or who are in dire need of help. We are humbly proud to have colleagues,
business partners, suppliers and customers who are generous and kind hearted.”
We at Mount Miriam Cancer Hospital is extremely blessed to have Bermaz motor supporting our
cause. We take this opportunity to say a BIG THANK YOU to Bermaz Motor, its supplier, vendor,
staff and all who participated and supported this charity golf.
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25
FRIENDS FROM AFAR | Michael & Claude
Prepared by Jenny Ooi (Senior Manager,
Community Relations & Communications)
Michael & Claude
Michael Haywood from England was in Penang
for a week holiday when he supported our
DanSing Thru Broadway in September. Taking
keen interest in the work we do at MMCH,
Michael made a 3 day stopover in Penang again
in mid November. This time travelling with a
friend Thomas, both visited our hospital.
Their visit was special to us for both gentlemen
brought personal treasures, a touch of England
and a very special bear, Claude. Claude is a
unique teddy bear which has his own Facebook
page and won the Best Venue Social Media
Campaign 2012 award for its travelling stories in
pictures from his Facebook. Claude was meant
as a gift for Mount Miriam’s fundraising effort.
Michael sharing with Sher Lyn Claude’s homeland.
FRIENDS FROM AFAR | Lilian & Jack Withoot
Lilian &
Jack Withoot
It was Lilian & Jack Withoot’s
second visit to this part of the
world. Hail from Holland, their
first trip saw them touched by
the need of those affected by
tsunami, the couple brought
cloths, daily needs to be
donated to those affected.
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This second trip saw them
fundraise among family,
friends and colleagues. Mount
Miriam Cancer Hospital was
blessed to receive 320 Euro
donations in aid of our Needy
Cancer Patient Fund from the
Withoots.
UPCOMING EVENTS | Let’s get excited!
JANUARY
Cervical Cancer Awareness Month
Spreading cancer awareness and encouraging early screening has been a mission for
Mount Miriam Cancer Hospital. Look out for our Cervical Cancer Awareness event!
FEBRUARY
38th Anniversary Charity Raffle Draw
Mount Miriam will celebrate its 38th Anniversary in 2014 by announcing the winner of
its 38th Anniversary Charity Raffle.
Many fantastic prizes are up for grabs! Top prizes include a car, motorbike, holiday
cruises, jewellery sets, latest trendy gadgets and many more attractive prizes!!!
CHARITY RAFFLE TICKETS ARE ON SALE NOW!
CALL US FOR THE TICKETS TODAY!
THE OFFICIAL DRAW CEREMONY WILL BE ON 21 FEBRUARY!
MARCH
Long Ride to Sweden
Date: 21 & 22 March 2014
2 breast surgeons’ quest to ride their super bike from Singapore to Sweden with the
mission to create breast cancer awareness.
LOOK OUT FOR THEIR ARRIVAL AT MMCH ON 21 & 22 MARCH 2014
MAY
Survivors’ Day 2014
An annual celebration of life will be held on 31 May 2014.
MORE INFORMATION WILL BE RELEASED.
JUNE
Charity Food Fair
Do yo still remember the excitement of getting together and feasting together while
support a great cause? The ho Chiak series of Charity Food Fair will be coming to you
on 15th June 2014 !!
MORE INFORMATION WILL BE RELEASED.
For further information about all the events above, kindly contact the
Community Relations Department.
Keith (04-8923 873) • Vriczen (04-8923 874) • Sher Lyn (04-8923 875)
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I am pleased to enclose herewith my donation of RM _________________________ or
Cheque No. _________________for RM __________________ being my contribution to
Mount Miriam Cancer Hospital:
Please send official tax-exempt receipt to:Name (Tan Sri/Puan Sri/Dato’ Seri/Datin Seri/Dato’/Datin/Dr/Mr/Mrs/Madam/Miss):
____________________________________________________________________________
Address: ___________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
Contact Number: ____________________________________________________________
Email Add: __________________________________________________________________
Please make your cheque in favour of “Mount Miriam Cancer Hospital” and
crossed “A/C Payee Only”: and return to:Mount Miriam Cancer Hospital
23, Jalan Bulan, Fettes Park, 11200 Tanjung Bunga, Penang.
Tel: 04 892 3999 Fax: 04 890 1583
Email: [email protected]
www.mountmiriam.com
*Kindly note the change in the phone number.
Mount Miriam Cancer Hospital
Articles edited by Andrea Filmer • Graphic design sponsored by Elfwork Studio
Printing sponsored by Sun Printers