Limelight

While most of us at the age of 18 would still be at a lost loss for a career choice, it wasn’t the case for Madam Chew Pheck Geok. She had set her sights to on a career in radiotherapy and today more than 20 years later she still talks about the subject with as much passion as a newcomer.

Pheck Geok’s fate in radiotherapy was sealed interest in radiotherapy was piqued when her elder sister was diagnosed with lymphoma and radiotherapy was the treatment option given. Although, her sister lost the battle against the disease and passed away at a the young age of 30, Pheck Geok took her advice and pursued a career in this field by applying for a sponsorship from the Ministry of Health to study radiation therapy.

She never stopped there and went on to pursue a Bachelor's and a Master's degree in a similar discipline from the University of Sydney by attending evening classes after a hectic day at work.

Pheck Geok, who first worked with the Singapore General Hospital, decided to move on to join the National Cancer Centre Singapore (NCCS) in 1999 when it opened its doors. And, she has served loyally ever since. Today, she is the Manager in-charge of Radiation Oncology at NCCS.

All jobs have its their challenges. For Pheck Geok in her position today, the biggest challenge comes from having to optimize optimise resources to provide the best care for patients yet while keeping the staff’s interest at heart.

Day after day, she has contributed the better part of her life in is dedicated to helping patients recover from their illness, as well as in to nurturing some of the younger therapists to build up a strong team. For her devotion to her work she was awarded the Commendation Medal in this year’s National Day honours list.

Asked about the award, she said: “I’m happy as it goes to show that my contributions have been acknowledged.” Her philosophy is: “Treat others the way you like to be treated.”