The break of dawn outside my window greeted my bleary eyes as I prepared myself for the long day ahead.
Oct 13, 2024, was special.
I would be exiting my comfort zone and volunteering on behalf of the National Cancer Society of Malaysia (NCSM) in a truly eye-opening journey.
Working in the field would be a taxing but novel learning experience for me – and would teach me how I could contribute to the cause that they were actively promoting: cancer mitigation.
This adventure would not only challenge my perceptions about cancer but also enrich my understanding of cultural diversity and the determination of our very brethren – humans – to persevere through health difficulties.
Upon my excited arrival at the Klang Hokkien Association, I was tasked with registering those interested in the free cancer check-up by the NCSM, as well as guiding them through the various booths. Although the job description seemed simple, the complex roles and responsibilities surfaced as the hours passed.
One notable task was to guide the registered members to the rest of our health screening tests, manned by other skilled volunteers. I was also required to separate the seniors eligible for further PKS tests from those who weren’t, for the purpose of company records.
However, I found myself at the confluence of service and learning. Serving almost 200 people over a span of 10 continuous hours was not just a test of endurance but a profound expedition into the lives of those affected by cancer.
The experience stirred a whirlwind of emotions within me. As an international student, engaging with individuals from different backgrounds pushed me out of my comfort zone. I initially felt a surge of anxiety, unsure of how to communicate effectively with people speaking Bahasa Melayu and Chinese dialects – with limited English proficiency.
However, this barrier soon transformed into quite a viable opportunity. I managed to pick up phrases and lay the foundation of a bridge that empowered me to form deep bonds.
One moment that would be etched into my memory was when an elderly woman, hesitant and frail, approached the registration desk. Using English – thankfully! – she sorrowfully shared her ordeal regarding a surgery she had undergone for colorectal cancer.
While guiding her through the registration process, I learnt about her family history of cancer and her personal battles. This interaction clearly highlighted the vulnerabilities and strengths that exist in today’s society.
During lapses of inactivity, I explored the surrounding event that NCSM was invited to be a vital part of.
Titled Bald is Beautiful 5.0, the event was to raise awareness of the various cancer types prevalent in Malaysia. There were those who voluntarily donated their hair to eliminate the stigma around cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy, while experienced speakers conducted informative lectures on the subject.
With performances and dances galore, the event struck a chord with me. With over 9.7 million cancer deaths reported annually, it is crucial to constantly spread the message – and events like this are just a step in the right direction. We, as humans, need to unite to contribute to such a cause.
And I believe that students are at the forefront of this revolution. With each person becoming more aware of the risks and detrimental effects of cancer, we can make a change and increase exposure to this fatal disease. Advancements in technology have made information easy to publish and view – most notably on social media. Our generation is capable of contributing – however small or large – to the eradication of cancer, and all it takes is one life-changing adventure.
I urge everyone reading this article to actively participate in volunteering activities; to experience the multitude of problems that lie outside our doorstep. The fuel to change exists within us – all we need to do is ignite it.
To give the younger generation an avenue to express themselves, Twentytwo13 has a dedicated space called Young Voices. If you are a young writer (aged 17 and below) and would like your article published on our news website, send your contribution to editor@twentytwo13.my.
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This is the personal opinion of the writer and does not necessarily represent the views of Twentytwo13.
