Jamie Yeo’s Unexpected Diagnosis and Discovery
In 2021, Jamie Yeo, a 46-year-old Singaporean actress and entrepreneur, discovered a lump during a self-examination. Initial scans and biopsies were inconclusive, but after she opted to remove the lump surgically, tests confirmed that it was cancerous. The shock of the diagnosis was tempered by relief that the tumour had already been removed.
https://www.gleneagles.com.sg/health-plus/article/jamie-yeo-cancer-journey
Jamie chose to undergo treatment at Gleneagles Hospital, where she had previously given birth and felt comfortable. A team of specialists — Dr Khoo Kei Siong (oncologist), Dr Bertha Woon (surgeon), and Dr Edward Yang (radiation oncologist) — crafted a personalised treatment plan. Their calm reassurance helped her manage anxiety and fear. She completed 20 sessions of radiation therapy and began hormonal medication to block oestrogen, avoiding chemotherapy due to early detection.
Emotional and Spiritual Journey
Beyond the medical process, Jamie described a profound emotional struggle — oscillating between hope and despair. Her husband, faith, and friends provided crucial emotional support. She reflected deeply on the search for “why” cancer occurred but was advised by her doctor to stop seeking causes and instead focus on living happily.
Lessons and Advice
Two key takeaways:
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Health insurance — having hospitalisation coverage spared her financial stress and allowed her to focus on healing.
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Early detection — regular self-examinations and screenings can catch cancer early, often avoiding more invasive treatments like chemotherapy.
She encourages others to listen to their bodies, get screened regularly, and prioritise mental and emotional well-being during recovery.
After surviving cancer, Jamie found a renewed appreciation for life’s simple joys — spending time with loved ones and living meaningfully each day. She hopes her story inspires others to seek timely medical care, maintain insurance, and treasure life’s blessings.
Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women in Singapore, accounting for nearly 30% of cases. Early screening, insurance coverage, and accessible, compassionate care, all of which can dramatically improve outcomes and quality of life.
