One of the first diseases you learn as a child is cancer. Maybe your friend had it, maybe a relative, or maybe you saw it on TV. Whichever it is, cancer is a common occurrence in our society, but no less painful.
Artist Elyana Emrizal (34) has been fighting cancer for over a decade. She recently underwent her first chemotherapy session and is awaiting her second on Friday (8th October). Shockingly enough, the drugs for her second chemo will cost RM50,000 per treatment.
The “Dukun” actress is a Stage 4 Lymphoma cancer survivor. Although she has been battling it for a while, she was unable to undergo chemotherapy as her body weight was too low. Thankfully, she regained her appetite and was able to bring her weight up to a healthy level. Unfortunately, she was not prepared for the cost of chemotherapy.
According to Harian Metro, Elyana is currently in discussion with the manufacturers about the price. “It’s really hard now thanks to the current conditions,” the artist said, referring to the pandemic situation. “As an artist, I can’t get work like before. So, my source of income is affected.”
Elyana had to be admitted on 21st September as she was experiencing pain all over her body. She later underwent her first chemo session on 24th September. Although it went well, Elyana admitted there were side effects. “After my first chemotherapy, my body felt weak. My stomach was hard and it disrupted my breathing,” she shared. “The (symptom) that affects me the most is when my vision gets blurry and causes me headaches.”
The doctor has not confirmed if the treatment has reduced the cancer cells, but Elyana remains optimistic. “It’s only the first session,” she pointed out. Elyana’s current concern is her food intake. She’s consistently hungry, but too much food makes her uncomfortable as well.
We wish the artist well for the coming chemo session! Fighting cancer can be a long and painful battle, but we truly admire the artist for her persistence and consistent optimism.
Sources: China Press, Berita Harian, Harian Metro (1)(2)
