A Second Sunrise: Remission Triumph Over Blood Cancer

Early Detection Saves Lives

Many still believe that blood cancer is not curable or always fatal. However, that is not true anymore. Early detection, advanced treatments, and supportive care are able to transform outcomes, especially  when patients are guided by a dedicated medical team. Putra Medical Centre offers in-depth insights.

Blood cancer, or hematologic cancer, affects the bone marrow, blood itself, or the lymphatic system.

UNDERSTANDING BLOOD CANCER

Blood cancer, or hematologic cancer, affects the bone marrow, blood itself, or the lymphatic system.  It disrupts how your body produces and regulates blood cells, leading to symptoms such as persistent  fatigue, frequent infections, unexplained weight loss, and easy bruising or bleeding. While some cases have been known to present with a genetic component, blood cancers often appear without a clear cause. Environmental exposures, previous chemotherapy, radiation, and certain infections could increase risk. It is also more common in older adults. However, younger patients like Nora are seeing  rising incidence in Malaysia and Southeast Asia, often due to increased awareness and earlier testing.

Victory: Courage To Combat Cancer

When 42-year-old Nora Ahmad (not her real name) first noticed unexplained bruises and constant  fatigue, she brushed it off as stress from juggling a demanding job and motherhood. However, when  her gums began to bleed and her energy levels severely dropped, she knew something was not right.

“I could not even walk up the stairs without needing to sit down. It was at this point that my family  urged me to go for a proper check-up. Everyone was deeply concerned. I was too,” Nora recalls.

At Putra Medical Centre, a thorough blood test revealed a diagnosis that went on to change her life drastically: Acute Myeloid Leukaemia (AML), a form of blood cancer. The news was devastating. Like many Malaysians, Nora had only heard the term ‘blood cancer’ in hushed tones before then and was unaware  of how complex, aggressive, and deeply personal the disease could be when it afflicts one.

The integrated approach at PMC includes chemotherapy, blood transfusions, and immune support.

Securing Hope Through A Diagnosis

Nora’s diagnosis came without delay, thanks to the comprehensive blood analysis and bone marrow biopsy available via the Haematology and Internal Medicine Department at Putra Medical Centre Alor  Setar. She was then placed under the careful care of highly experienced internal medicine consultants who provided expertise in blood disorders, infectious diseases, and preventive medicine.

“Particularly in Nora’s case, her swift diagnosis made a tremendous difference. We were able to start  chemotherapy right away, and monitor her progress with our in-house lab and radiology supports.  The key is staying proactive and compassionate throughout the journey,” says a medical professional.

The integrated approach of this hospital enabled Nora, a deserving patient, to receive chemotherapy,  blood transfusions, and immune support—all under one roof. In addition, counselling sessions done regularly and key nutritional guidance were also made available as part of her personalised care plan. 

Freeing Healing Beyond The Body

Blood cancer treatments can be intense. Chemotherapy, isolation, hair loss, and infection risks take a  toll not just physically, but also emotionally. For Nora, the strength of her nurses and open-hearted communication from her doctors made all the difference when it came to her journey of healing. Her blood counts stabilised and biopsy came back clear. Six months later, she was officially “in remission.”

A True Message of Second Chances

“I felt seen. I was not just another patient to my medical team at PMC. I was someone they cared for. Every time it felt like I was losing hope, someone at PMC helped me find it again,” she says tearfully.

Today, Nora has returned to work, volunteers at a local cancer support group, and approached each  new day with newfound gratitude. She encourages anyone who feels “off” to listen to their body, ask  questions, and not fear the worst. “If you catch it early, and if you’re in the right hands—like I was at  Putra Medical Centre in Alor Setar—you can survive this cancer battle. In fact, you could even thrive.”

PMC: BLOOD CANCER TREATMENTS

Led by warm, deeply experienced medical professionals who ensure patients receive evidence-based treatment and emotional care, you aren’t alone. If you or a loved one is experiencing unusual fatigue, bruising, or frequent infections, don’t ignore the signs. Blood cancer may be rare. Nonetheless, the condition is not incurable. PMC offers a full suite of services for those with blood disorders or cancer:

–     Internal medicine consultation

–     In-patient and outpatient monitoring

–     Chemotherapy and transfusion facilities

–     Blood testing and bone marrow biopsies

–     Psychological support and lifestyle counselling

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