
Terminally Ill Man Spreads Hope: 'I'm Preparing for My Next Life by Doing Good'
2025-06-07
Author: Daniel
A Life Well-Lived Despite Grim Diagnosis
At first glance, Roger Tan appears to be a vibrant 48-year-old with an impressive physique that belies his terminal diagnosis of liver cancer. In December 2024, doctors delivered the shocking news: he had just one year left to live.
But instead of succumbing to despair, Roger has embraced this time by dedicating himself to helping others. The former risk manager now spends his days volunteering and sharing inspirational messages with inmates he met while serving as a volunteer counselor in prison.
Transforming Adversity into Service
Rather than wallowing in bitterness, Roger channels his energy into writing uplifting daily emails—which he later compiled into the book "Dear Inmates: Daily Emails To Prisoners." This initiative, supported by Ambulance Wish Singapore, aims to provide encouragement and a sense of connection to those behind bars.
"I’m not afraid of dying," he explains with cheerful resolve. "Looking back, I’ve lived a meaningful life. No regrets. Die, die lor!" His expression reflects a unique blend of acceptance and a passion for making a difference.
A Journey Through Struggles and Successes
Roger's beginnings trace back to a kampung in Lim Chu Kang, where he learned the value of hard work from his family. Despite facing challenges fitting in during junior college—surrounded by wealthier peers—he pursued academic excellence, ultimately earning multiple degrees.
His career in risk management at UBS was promising, but a life-altering car accident in 2013 left him with chronic pain and a new perspective on life. Seeking resilience, he delved into mindfulness and self-compassion, ultimately realizing that happiness stems from helping others.
A New Mission After Diagnosis
Following his cancer diagnosis in August 2024, Roger wasted no time in continuing his mission. The routine check-up revealed a tumor that led to a fraught surgery and a devastating prognosis. Yet, he remains undeterred by his health, focusing on his educational aspirations and ongoing volunteer work.
"I’m not convinced I have only a year left," Roger asserts, inspired by stories of others who have defied the odds. Even his cancer has taken a back seat to the fulfillment he finds in helping those in need.
Creating a Lasting Legacy
Roger’s immediate goal is to ensure his work continues beyond his lifetime. He’s mentoring successors for his email project and planning to formalize a charitable organization with the Robin Hood Squad, comprised of former inmates, their families, and volunteers.
With a burgeoning team of about 20, they’ve started care initiatives, provided support for those in need, and pushed for social reintegration for former inmates.
A Belief in Reincarnation
As he contemplates his own mortality, Roger finds solace in his Buddhist beliefs. "I believe in reincarnation. If I do good now, maybe I’ll have more resources to help people in my next life," he says, embodying a spirit of altruism and determination.
Inspiring, brave, and proactive, Roger Tan challenges our notions of life and death—and shows us that even in the darkest times, there is light to be found in kindness.