Please help my Papi/Dad:(:(:(

Update 9 Dec

Thankfully, he was discharged since 7 Dec and currently recuperating at home but under a strict diet, monitoring of his BSL and daily insulin injection:( He's still not out of the woods and not so mobile either. He can walk but cautious and slow. It's necessary to stimulate blood flow to prevent blood clot due to his DKA:(

We're glad to have him home but will be monitoring his progress going forward.

Thanks to all again for your amazing support.

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Update 6 Dec

Unfortunately, my dad's been hospitalized since 29 Nov. He has DKA, acute diabetic ketoacidosis (fatal if untreated). His condition's not great and BSL (blood sugar level) is between 11 - 20 (very high). Had internal bleeding from an ulcer but now in the clear. Still monitoring, however, his organs have been affected due to DKA and his age:(:( Will have to be on long term insulin injection and ET (blood disorder) medication:(:(

We're hoping that he can be discharged soon but will be on long term medical care:(:(

Thanks for all your support in the meantime:(

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5 years ago, my dad was diagnosed with this uncommon form of cancer, ET aka Essential Thrombocytosis. Unfortunately, we were informed that this is a rare disorder in which the body produces too many platelets for unknown reasons. This can cause abnormal blood clotting or bleeding. Not much have been researched on this besides the common form of cancer, ie. lungs, heart, throat etc. Very disheartening as it's incurable:(

At 81, my dad's endeavouring to remain strong and resilient although he has lost a lot of weight due to his restricted diet and diabetes too:( However, he still enjoys his daily morning walks to help keep him mobile. Also, never fails to watch his fave soccer team, Arsenal whenever there's a live match. Loves his classic flicks with Barbara Streisand, Dean Martin, Fred Astaire and the oldies but goodies tunes, eg. Unforgettable (Nat King Cole), Gene Kelly etc. He's actually a pretty good singer and would hum a melody now & then:) With the love and support from the family, he is not giving up the good fight against this dreadful "blood disorder".

As my folks, kid and I are SG PRs, there are restricted subsidies to assist with the unavoidable medical costs. Being a single parent and sole bread winner, it has been very difficult. In addition, to losing my job due to covid, it has been very challenging for our family.

This will be the space to share with him on his 'unpredictable journey' and hopefully, he can enjoy a wonderful Christmas with us this year and many more ahead. We hope to help raise funds for the inevitable medical costs & miscellaneous expenses that may incur over time. Thank you so much for all your impeccable generosity, love and support in these challenging times!

Best regards

Chan Fam