Brian Jeffrey
Ha Hai Nam, a level 2 specialist at K Hospital in Hanoi, took a moment to examine the medical history of N.T.H, a 76-year-old woman who has been battling colon cancer for the past year. She received a total of 27 radiation sessions, in addition to surgery and chemotherapy.
Upon learning about her condition, she inquired with Nam: “How much longer do I have? Will surgery be beneficial?”.
This patient maintained a positive outlook and had a good grasp of health matters. Nam provided comprehensive information regarding her illness, treatment options, potential risks, and side effects. She decided to check into the hospital right away. After a year of care, her health has improved significantly, and she has now joined cancer support groups, sharing her journey to inspire others in similar situations.
In another remarkable case is N.T.M, an 85-year-old woman from Thai Binh. When doctors at K Hospital explained her diagnosis of colon cancer, they recommended surgery, considering it necessary for her treatment.
Contrarily, her family opposed the surgery, believing her age rendered her incapable of enduring such a procedure. They preferred to take her home to spend her final days surrounded by her family rather than risk her life on the operating table. In their view, traditional medicine would be more appropriate at this stage.
Surprisingly, M declared to the medical team: “I want the surgery”.
On the eve of the operation, the medical team administered three units of blood to M. She took it upon herself to prepare for the procedure by mixing three packets of powder with 3 liters of water to cleanse her intestines. While younger patients grimaced at the taste, she calmly drank the mixture down and braced herself for the upcoming surgery.
Dr. Pham Van Binh, the deputy director at K Hospital, noted that patients in their 70s and 80s often shy away from treatment, thinking it may not be effective. However, he emphasized that advancements in surgical techniques are available that can yield positive results for older patients.
