Pink is traditionally seen as the colour of femininity. However, when worn by breast cancer survivors, it transforms into a symbol of resilience, representing their determination to keep fighting and supporting each other in the battle against the most common cancer affecting women in Singapore. For many survivors, the journey through surgery, treatment and the possibility of recurrence can be physically and emotionally exhausting.
Since 1997, the Breast Cancer Foundation (BCF) has been providing social and psychological support to patients and caregivers, while advocating for early detection and raising awareness about the disease. Alongside support groups, a befriending programme and online resources, BCF organises events like the annual Pink Ribbon Walk (26 October). This event, which features 3km and 5km walks, aims to raise awareness of breast cancer. Members of the public are encouraged to attend to show solidarity with those impacted by the disease.
Ms Irene Chui, captain of BCF Paddlers in the Pink.
Giving back by building a community
Another cherished initiative is BCF Paddlers in the Pink, a dragon boat team made up of breast cancer survivors and their supporters. The choice of dragon boating is intentional — the repetitive paddling motion helps drain fluid buildup in the arms, a common issue after the removal of cancerous lymph nodes.
Ms Irene Chui, 59, a program manager at software company SAP and captain of the team, was diagnosed with Stage 2C cancer at the age of 36, with four affected lymph nodes. Due to the tumour size, she underwent a mastectomy followed by chemotherapy. “Looking back at my cancer journey, I count myself lucky because many people don’t even have the chance to live beyond their diagnosis, whereas I was able to nab it earlier,” she shares.
During this challenging time, Ms Chui drew strength from her family, friends and community. Her husband, siblings and nieces rallied around her, offering comfort and support — brewing health tonics, overseeing her meals and organising a schedule to ensure she was never alone during chemotherapy.
Ms Irene Chui leading her team and showcasing the spirit of perseverance.
Around the time of her second mastectomy, Ms Chui's husband was diagnosed with adenoid cystic carcinoma (a rare type of cancer) and 12 years later, had progressed to Stage 4. Through it all, Ms Chui continues to work from home while caring for him, finding solace and strength in her role as captain of the dragon boat team. “Survivor, captain, wife, mother and caregiver – these are roles that have built my character and made me stronger through the crises. What gives me purpose is nurturing and educating fellow survivors the importance of regular exercises, turning them from aunties to athletes,” she says.
BCF Paddlers in the Pink not only provides survivors with a chance to stay active outdoors but also offers opportunities to give back. “In life, we shouldn’t only receive. It’s a blessing to give back,” says Ms Chui. “We may have lost a breast or two, but it’s all about living in the present, passing on positivity and energy to others.”
Ms Rebekah Mak (front row, far right) with her BCF Paddlers in the Pink teammates.
Seizing the day after cancer
Ms Rebekah Mak, 44, a marketing professional, felt two lumps in her breast during a self-examination. Initially hoping they were hormonal, she finally visited a clinic and was diagnosed with Stage 2 cancer. Having lost her mother to breast cancer a year ago, she describes the experience of telling her family – including her young children and father – of her own diagnosis as “heartbreaking”.
Ms Mak’s support system included her husband, who accompanied her to chemotherapy and helped look after their children, as well as friends, church members and colleagues. After eight cycles of chemotherapy, the tumour shrunk. She underwent a lumpectomy, keeping her breast intact, and continued exercising throughout treatment. “I’d start with less than 1km on the day after chemo and progressed to 5km by the day before the next chemotherapy cycle,” recalls Ms Mak.
Today, she’s in remission and is one of the vice-captains of BCF Paddlers in the Pink, where she finds camaraderie with fellow survivors. “We all speak the same language!” she says.
Ms Rebekah Mak and Ms Irene Chui, proudly in pink at a BCF event.
Ms Mak’s breast cancer journey has taught her that being diagnosed with the disease is not the end of the road. “It’s just a pit-stop before changing the path we were on to something new and better. And our bodies are stronger than we think!”
Mrs Anusuya Suppiah-Chia, member of BCF Paddlers in the Pink.
Living life to the fullest
In 1998, Mrs Anusuya Suppiah-Chia, now 70, was told that the clear liquid discharge from her nipple and a lump in her right breast were harmless and a result of a previous benign tumour removal. Trusting her instincts, she insisted on a mammogram, which revealed Stage 1 breast cancer. A mastectomy was recommended, following the standard practice of the time.
After surgery, Mrs Suppiah-Chia experienced side effects from hormonal medication, including hot flashes, night sweats, weight gain and severe joint pain. Mrs Suppiah-Chia remained calm despite her discomfort. “My husband was more shocked than I was,” she recalls. “He flew back from working overseas and was very protective of me. His gentle care and concern were enough to make me well.”
Her mother, siblings and sisters-in-law took turns preparing nourishing meals, while her colleagues in advertising lightened her workload. Returning to work five weeks after her mastectomy restored a sense of normalcy and kept her busy with projects between medical appointments.
Encouraged by her oncologist to enjoy life and put cancer behind her, Mrs Suppiah-Chia joined BCF Paddlers in the Pink after reading an article about the group. “Then, I only knew one other breast cancer survivor, my aunt. I wanted to meet others and share our experiences,” she explains. “No two journeys are the same. We encourage, cry, laugh and support one another.”
Her husband, a member of BCF’s Caregivers Support Group, has been paddling alongside the team for years, and now offers support off the water.
Today, Mrs Suppiah-Chia embraces life by going for brisk walks, keeping up with current affairs, staying engaged with other seniors, and keeping fit through stick mobility exercises and strength training at home. “As a pioneer dragon boat paddler, I want to inspire new survivors and show them that exercising helps them to recover well, and they should continue to lead an active life.”
Ms Irene Chui and Mrs Anusuya Suppiah-Chia out on a practise.
After practice, the team often bonds over drinks or meals. They also celebrate birthdays, attend events together and throw year-end parties. “Our energy and spirit make us daring. We live life to the fullest.”
Early Detection Saves Lives
• Breast cancer can affect anyone — even men in rare cases — but the highest risk is among women over 50 or those with a close family history of the disease.
• Women are encouraged to perform breast self-examination once a month, usually after their period. Click here for a step-by-step guide.
• Look for changes in your breasts, like nipple appearance, size or skin texture.
• Feel for lumps in your armpits and breasts, including behind the nipples.
• Watch for signs like persistent rashes, inverted nipples, redness, puckering, or dimpling of the breast, nipple or areola; or a thickening in the breast or armpit area.
• Women over 50 should get a mammogram biennially. If you’re 40 to 49, consult your doctor about whether a mammogram is recommended. Mammograms can detect lumps before they can be felt.
Head to Marina Barrage on 26 October, 5pm to 9pm, to support the Pink Ribbon Walk 2024. Show your solidarity with breast cancer survivors and help raise awareness for this important cause.
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