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My name is Michelle Ng, seventy-one years old. At the age of thirty-eight, I had cervix cancer, and at the age of sixty-one I had bladder cancer. Both cancers started with noticing blood in my underwear and urination respectively. My most difficult moment was when the surgeon told me that he could not operate to remove my womb due to adhesion. My son was only two years old then and I told myself that I wanted to live to see him grow up. I tried to take things easy and live day by day.

I heard about 365 Cancer Prevention Society (365CPS) when they opened a centre at Bukit Panjang which is located just below my block. I am so blessed to have 365CPS at my block, where I live. Honestly, before joining 365CPS, I have never done any exercises. I used to walk a lot at work and I thought that was enough. I had arthritis on both my knees since my fifties. My right knee, especially, is very stiff and painful, and I can hardly bend. Thus, I have developed a phobia of sitting down and getting up from the floor. However, after several months of attending the activities at the Centre, e.g. Detox Exercise, Dance Fit, and Restorah Exercise, my knee has become more flexible and there was only slight pain. Since then, I could also participate in Zumba during the COVID-19 lockdown without much problems. One night, when I was trying out an exercise, I realized that I could sit on the floor and get up by myself. Now, I have continued the exercises to strengthen the other muscles and I am so glad we can exercise via Zoom too.

At 365CPS, this is a place where I have made many new friends, exercised and attended health talks. It helps to improve my alertness and I know that I am not alone. I like to exercise in a group as this gives me more motivation. With these new friends, I need not feel lonely anymore. The health talks conducted at the centres are also informative and helpful. I am very satisfied with the services at 365CPS. The staff at the Bukit Panjang Social Service Centre are so accommodating, friendly and helpful. They have this everlasting stamina and cheerfulness that can give you strength. I am looking forward to the days when we can meet at the centre and mingle with one another again as I really miss the lively atmosphere at the centre. With a community at 365CPS, I am not lonely anymore.

I would like to thank the volunteers, donors and staff for their efforts and kindness. To all my fellow cancer fighters, I would like to encourage you to think positively; having a positive mind-set would have won you half the battle!