A Journey of Hope and Healing

In a poignant moment filled with joy, two-year-old Yanna Lui amazed her family by uttering "mama" for the first time in August. For her mother, Madam Low Yoke Moi, this was nothing short of a miracle, a testament to Yanna's resilience following a daunting battle with a rare brain tumor.

Against All Odds: Yanna's Fight with Ependymoma

Diagnosed with ependymoma at just four months old, Yanna embarked on a year-long journey that included an arduous seven-hour surgery, eight rounds of chemotherapy, and 33 sessions of groundbreaking Proton Beam Therapy (PBT)—a precise and advanced form of radiation that is transforming cancer treatment, especially for young patients.

Innovative Treatment in Singapore

Singapore is proud to be the second Southeast Asian nation to offer PBT, with the National Cancer Centre Singapore (NCCS) leading the charge. Since launching in June 2023, the Goh Cheng Liang Proton Therapy Centre has treated 37 pediatric patients, showcasing the power of this cutting-edge technology.

A Comprehensive Treatment Team

Yanna's unique case required a specialized team from multiple public healthcare institutions, including the KK Women's and Children's Hospital and the National Neuroscience Institute. Together, they meticulously crafted a treatment plan aimed at maximizing Yanna's chances for recovery while preserving her quality of life.

The Tumor Challenge

Initial signs of trouble surfaced in September 2023 when Yanna exhibited weakness and refused to drink milk. Scans revealed a 6.7cm tumor dangerously wrapped around her brain stem, posing a critical threat.

Successful Surgery: A Ray of Hope

During her surgery, doctors initially expected to remove only a fraction of the tumor. However, clinical Associate Professor David Low delivered some uplifting news: they successfully excised 60% of it, offering Yanna and her family a glimmer of hope.

Recovery and Proton Therapy

After completing her chemotherapy by May 2024, Yanna finally qualified for PBT, which minimizes radiation damage to her developing brain. The treatment, though costly at about $53,000, was fully covered by her father's insurance.

Looking Towards the Future

Now in remission, Yanna must still navigate the consequences of her illness and treatment. Diagnosed with hearing loss and delayed speech due to her condition, she's undergoing extensive rehabilitation therapies to aid her development.

A Family's Love and Support

Madam Low remains steadfast and optimistic, understanding that progress may be slow: "What matters is that Yanna is alive." With two brothers by her side, the family continues to support her as she achieves her milestones, one day at a time, inspiring everyone with her courage.