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Chew Chor Meng faces off with rare disease
Channel NewsAsia - Wednesday, December 31
40 year old MediaCorp actor Chew Chor Meng has been diagnosed with Spinal Muscular atrophy, otherwise known as Kennedy's Disease. When he first found out about his condition, he tried to hide the diagnosis from his family, worried that they would not be unable to accept the fact.
With encouragement and enlightenment from his new religion, he manages to face up to it, with calm. Chew revealed his illness on a church service when he gave a testimony and shared his fighting spirits. Boggled with backaches, he went to various temples and even met with a Taoist medium.
At the service, Chew was the normal self we know - entertaining and serious at the same time - as he faced hundreds of fellow believers. Yet during the interview with Xin.sg, he could not hide his sorrows as he spoke of his condition. Tears welled up in his eyes.
"It is unfortunate that I've been diagnosed with Spinal Muscular Atrophy. Basically I can still carry on with my normal life, just that the speed of my deterioration will be faster than others. Perhaps in the next seven, 10 or 15 years, I'll have much difficulties moving around," he said.
For someone who loves running, Chew is forced to give up his hobby. "I have to be more cautious with my movements because my legs are weaker now. I can't run now; I have to give up jogging."
When asked if he will be seeking medical treatment, Chew said helplessly that it is a terminal illness. It was a heart-rending moment.
"There is currently no medical treatment for this condition. My doctor told me that the chance of contradicting this disease is one in 40,000. It is hereditary; I can only accept it."
Chew has two daughters; two-year-old and six-year-old. He said frankly that he is most worried about his family after finding out his illness.
"I believe my religion has given me strength and faith. There is nothing to worry about; what I do not hope for to happen has already happened. Our lives are gifts from god. The best gift for God in return is to make good use of the life that is given to us. In other words, be happy and spend everyday wisely."
Chew says he is doing well for now except that he is unable to do tough movements for drama shoots. In fact, Chew's backache has been persisting for several months; he thought it was a normal backache until two months ago when he found it in serious condition.
"I thought it was a normal back problem so I've been going for acupunctures, massages, and taking pain-killers but they did not help. Until I came to church in 2008, someone told me about my condition. I went to three doctors for verification, did blood tests and hereditary genes test. I got the final diagnosis in mid October."
When he first heard of the diagnosis, it was like a bolt from the blue.
"Of course I'm very depressed. Initially the doctor said it was Motor Neuron disease and he told me to "spend more time with your kids". That statement was really hurtful; my emotions hit rock bottom. From that day onwards, I kept praying, hoping God will declare that the diagnosis is a mistake."
Just as Chew said, the most unfortunate has already happened and he can only accept it. Spreading joys and laughter through the black box and growing up with everyone, his illness came as a blow to his loyal audience. The best thing everyone can do now is to give moral support and send well wishes.
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