Caregiver donates $1 mil to support needy patients and cancer research

The National Cancer Centre Singapore (NCCS) received a generous S$1 million gift from local philanthropist Mr Harry Fung which will go towards helping patients who need financial assistance and supporting cancer research to further care and improve health outcomes.

From left to right: Mr. Daniel Teo, Chairman & Managing Director, Hong How Group; Dr. Karmen Wong, Medical Director, Icon Cancer Centre; Ms. Nancy Sim, Ms. Jessica Fung, Mr. Harry Fung; Prof William Hwang, CEO, NCCS,

Dr. Miriam Tao, Senior Consultant, Division of Medical Oncology, NCCS; Ms. Tan Su Shan, Managing Director, Group Head, Institutional Banking, DBS and Prof London Ooi, Senior Consultant, Division of Surgery & Surgical Oncology, SGH & NCCS.

Having observed the holistic care for lymphoma that his late wife received at NCCS, Mr Fung, who was her main caregiver, was inspired to give back to society and make a positive impact to a cause that is close to his heart. The S$1 million gift will be divided equally between the NCCS Cancer Fund to support needy patients and to advance investigator-initiated clinical trials, with the ultimate aim of improving treatment outcomes for patients.

Mr Harry Fung presenting a $1 million cheque to Prof William Hwang, CEO, NCCS, which will go towards supporting needy patients and advancing cancer research at NCCS.

“My late wife battled cancer for almost ten years and it was a physically and emotionally challenging period for us. When accompanying her for treatment at NCCS, I saw how some patients and their families struggled with the financial burden of being ill with cancer. Having been a caregiver myself, I understand how difficult it can be and this is why I want to help needy patients,” said Mr Harry Fung.

“I know there is a rising cancer incidence and I support NCCS’ work in giving care and conducting cancer research to seek improved treatments, which I believe is critical to benefit patients in the future. I hope this gift will inspire others to give back to society in whatever way they can.”

“A cancer patient’s treatment journey can be challenging and daunting with the uncertainty of what the future holds. We are very fortunate to have the support of like-minded individuals who share NCCS’ vision to offer patients hope of a cancer-free tomorrow. Such generous support enables NCCS to better support our patients, continually develop holistic programmes and undertake impactful cancer research to improve patients’ lives,” said Professor William Hwang, Chief Executive Officer, NCCS.

The NCCS Cancer Fund supports financial assistance for patients in need, cancer education, training for medical professionals and cancer research aimed at making treatment breakthroughs. To support the fund, please visit NCCS Giving.