From Cancer Survivor to Entrepreneur: Sheree Ang's Inspiring Journey

Sheree Ang, a resilient 45-year-old, is embarking on an exciting journey to motherhood and contemplating the launch of her dream bistro after facing cancer head-on.

Her life took an unexpected turn in July 2024 when she was diagnosed with grade 1 Endometrioid Adenocarcinoma, a form of endometrial cancer. This diagnosis not only raised concerns about her health but also about the financial implications of her treatment.

"The uncertainties were overwhelming, particularly concerning the costs involved in my treatment," Ang recalls. However, the reassurance of a critical illness insurance payout empowered her to leave her job and concentrate fully on her recovery.

Having witnessed the struggles of her maternal relatives against cancer in 2016, Ang understood the gravity of her situation all too well. Despite the sorrow of losing both relatives within a year, her aunt’s bone marrow transplant opened her eyes to the importance of having comprehensive insurance.

Recognizing her need for better coverage, Ang consulted with her trusted financial representative, Pauline Tay from Prudential Financial Advisers Singapore. This relationship proved vital as she signed up for the PRULady policy, which provides tailored support for women facing health challenges.

Facing Challenges and Making Decisions

Ang's health journey took another turn during a routine Pap smear in June 2024, which revealed abnormal results. Although she and her husband were initially unconcerned about starting a family, the gynaecologist’s recommendation of a hysterectomy shifted their perspective dramatically.

In an effort to explore less invasive options, Ang sought a second opinion from a different doctor who proposed a conservative treatment plan involving medication and a Mirena coil, aimed at managing her condition without surgery. This route resonated with Ang, offering hope for the future.

Support Through Difficult Times

In September 2024, Ang began her treatment while coping with side effects that took a toll on her physical and emotional well-being. The stress of her previous job as a senior project manager was increasingly unmanageable, leading her to make the difficult decision to resign and prioritize her health.

"The medication caused me to gain weight rapidly, and I struggled with joint pain," Ang shares. "I felt depressed and unattractive. However, my husband encouraged me to enjoy life and not let cancer dictate our happiness. We both agreed to focus on the positives amid adversity."

Fortunately, Ang’s insurance coverage allowed her to navigate this challenging time without the added stress of medical bills. The lump-sum payout from her critical illness plan covered her treatment costs, easing financial burdens during what Prudential Singapore terms "health gap years." These years can lead to lost income and financial strain when a person is unable to work due to illness.

Statistics reveal that while many anticipate lengthy recoveries from critical illnesses, only a small percentage feel financially prepared for such an event. Ang was fortunate; her critical illness plan not only granted her peace of mind but also covered her surgeries and medical expenses, leaving less room for worrying about finances.

Looking Toward the Future

With her treatment completed and cancer in remission, Ang's focus shifted toward the future. Following her gynaecologist’s advice, she began planning her IVF journey, thanks to the financial relief provided by her insurance policies, which allowed her to save specifically for this undertaking. Ang emphasizes the importance of securing health coverage early, noting that "health issues can arise unexpectedly at any moment. Critical illness plans offer invaluable peace of mind."

Her ambitions extend beyond motherhood. Sheree is also exploring the idea of opening a bistro—a dream she has nurtured since childhood. "I have always been passionate about hosting friends over tea and coffee, and a bistro would fulfill that desire while allowing me to start a new career," she explains.

While her IVF journey currently takes precedence, Ang is eager to bring her dream to life. She reflects, “Having financial stability empowers me to plan for both my family and my business, allowing me to pursue the life I truly want.”