Stories

A tribute to Walnut Warrior Support Group by Mark Lin

Mark Lin/LinkedIn

Nov 11, 2024, 03:34

A tribute to Walnut Warrior Support Group by Mark Lin

Mark Lin, HOD at the Singapore Cancer Society, shared a post on LinkedIn:

“The past weekend has been heartbreaking; two active members of our Walnut Warrior support group (for prostate cancer) passed away, just one day apart.

For a moment, I felt a deep sense of loss for our entire support group community.

Both were incredibly active and generous, giving their time and resources to support other cancer patients. They contributed greatly to our mission, willingly participating in initiatives to raise cancer awareness and offering valuable insights to improve cancer care.

I recalled a story one of my staff shared, a humorous moment involving one of them. He had been enthusiastically talking to a customer about SCS upon learning that the customer was also a cancer survivor.

‘Are you a pastor or something?’ the customer asked. Surprised, our late member quickly clarified that he wasn’t affiliated with any religious organisation.

The customer explained that his passionate ‘pitch’ about the support group sounded so sincere, it felt almost like proselytising—though in a good way.

This story serves as a poignant reminder of the countless small efforts made by everyday people. They often work quietly, without recognition or fanfare, as ardent supporters of our mission, driven by a genuine desire to create a better tomorrow for those living with cancer today.

Stories like these humanise cancer patients. They remind us that beyond their illness, they have universal desires—to connect, to help, and to be part of something meaningful.

Rest in peace, my friends.”