ICONS OF HOPE: Tang Singson

TANG SINGSON, member, Board of Trustees
ICanServe Foundation

“I honestly believe that survival rates are higher when cancer is detected early.”

I continue to volunteer because I believe in the advocacy of ICanServe. Early detection can truly save lives! I want people to know this and do what is necessary (tests, for instance). I want to help spread this advocacy in any way I can. “Listen” to your body, too. When it says “too much,” I stop and remember to take care of my health. I don’t stress over the small stuff now. I take time to be with family and friends more.

My husband and my children were the reason I decided to continue with the six cycles of chemotherapy prescribed for me, despite the depression and the side effects. (It’s different for everyone,) but the day after my third chemo cycle, I declared I would stop treatment because it was too much for me already. However, it saddened me to think how much pain my husband and children would experience when I am gone. I could not bear the fact that I would cause them pain… They made me realize how much I had to continue to be part of their lives… they took time to share their daily activities with me to make me feel wanted and needed. I would not have lasted without them by my side.

Because I was given a second lease on life when I survived cancer, I want to help other people have this chance, too. I want to give back to people, the same gift of life, that I received. I also love the sisterhood at ICanServe. We have a special bond and understanding of each other such that, even if we don’t see each other often, the warmth and love for each other continues to be the same.

#ICSat25
#SurvivorStories

Photos by: Patrick Uy

Icons of Hope is a social media campaign that features cancer survivors who share their own stories, learnings and the lives they now live. It is part of ICANSERVE Foundation’s 25th anniversary celebration in collaboration with Camera Club of the Philippines. With thanks to Owen Santos and Zonia Bandoy.