Shirley Chung is in a battle for her life.
Earlier this week, the Prime Chef alum took to Instagram with a view to break the terrible information that she was identified with stage 4 tongue most cancers in Could.
Based mostly on her detailed rationalization of how the analysis got here out, it was utterly surprising on the time.
“The end of May, ulcers erupted in my mouth and my oral surgeon discovered a hidden tumor under my tongue,” Chung advised followers.
“Just a few days later, I used to be identified, stage 4 tongue most cancers, as most cancers cells additionally unfold into my lymph nodes. I used to be very calm when medical doctors delivered the information.
“As a chef, I’ve always thrived under pressure. I was extremely focused on getting all the tests and scans as fast as possible, so I can start on the treatment plans.”
Nonetheless, Chung — who superior to the Prime Chef finals on Season 14 — was shortly confronted with a virtually inconceivable troublesome resolution when it got here to her medical journey.
She may endure surgical procedure to have her tongue eliminated … or undergo a extra experimental remedy in Chicago that had would concentrate on radiation and chemo to take away the most cancers, which she mentioned had beforehand labored in “a unicorn case.”
“I broke down, crying, trying to put thoughts together and ask questions but physically couldn’t, all I heard was ‘option 1, surgery, 100% removal of your tongue,’” Chung recalled through her emotional publish.
“[Husband] Jimmy was holding it together for both of us, asking if we have any option that I can keep my tongue and the survival rates.”
Chung additionally appeared on Season 11 of Prime Chef. She continued as follows:
“Increased survival price, or preserve my tongue? I selected to maintain my tongue, I’m a fighter, I’m a chef, I might be that unicorn too.
“I just finished 6 weeks of Chemo (and have many more to go), going to the hospital 4 times a week for injections, it’s like a full time job. My tumor is shrinking, my speech is much better and I can eat most normal food now.”
We’re so very, very glad to listen to that.
Chung’s Instagram publish included footage and pictures of her shaving off her hair whereas surrounded by her family members.
Previous to thanking supporters for his or her nicely needs, Chung concluded:
“I’m studying to lean on others, to let go, to be extra weak ….. it took me 2 weeks of considering to determine to inform my dad and mom about my most cancers, solely my shut circle of buddies and my sister have identified till now.
“I’m studying, I might be robust 98% of the time, it’s alright to be not okay. I’ve a tricky lengthy highway to restoration in entrance of me.
“Your love and support will carry me through. Cheer me on, Shirley Chung 2.0 will be reborn in 2025!”
