When Eunice Goh’s beloved father was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in June 2021, her world came crashing down. To the 32-year-old, he had always been her best friend, closest confidante and lifelong mentor.
“Daddy was a very systematic and organised man,” recounted Eunice. “On the day of his diagnosis, he resigned and handed over responsibilities, and compiled important documents for the family. His diagnosis shattered our world, but he remained calm and focused.”
In the following months, Eunice helplessly watched as her biggest cheerleader withered to a shadow of his former self.
“Despite the poor prognosis, Daddy bravely chose to undergo chemotherapy. He endured the pain and suffering quietly, never complaining. Sadly, the cancer continued to spread,” said Eunice.
Unwavering faith
Yet, through it all, her father’s Christian faith held firm.
“He spent much of his time praying, asking us to join him, and reminding us that God is sovereign,” said Eunice. “After stopping chemotherapy, he had one good month where he even went back to work. But as the cancer spread, he began experiencing pain.”
“As his suffering worsened, I wondered if he had changed his mind about God. So I asked, ‘Daddy, are you angry with God for not healing you?’ He simply said, ‘God is sovereign, trust in God.’”
Journey through life’s final chapter
Eventually, Eunice’s father became bedridden.
“There was a point when Daddy started throwing up what looked like coffee grounds —it turned out to be digested blood,” said Eunice.
Her father was rushed to the hospital, and Eunice recalled “it was all a blur”. Upon returning home, the team from MWS Home Care & Home Hospice (HCHH), a service offered by Methodist Welfare Services (MWS), was activated. Eunice and her family received comprehensive support from a multi-disciplinary team of doctors, nurses, social worker and chaplain.
The medical team visited to adjust Mr Goh’s pain medication and taught Eunice and her brother how to care for him at home, including preparing and storing his prescriptions.
“MWS nurse clinician Melissa Fong also prepared me for what to do if Daddy died at home, texting me a detailed breakdown, which I found very reassuring,” said Eunice. “Despite my frequent questions, the nurses never made me feel like a bother. They were kind, encouraging and supportive, helping me stay calm and brave.”
The team also arranged for Mr Goh’s hospice stay as he wished, while Rev Dr Norman Wong, Head Chaplain from MWS, prayed with the family and visited in his final days.
“Eng Kwang himself has a heart of compassion,” shared Rev Norman. “He dedicated his life to ministry, from running a Christian daycare for adults with disabilities to missionary work in an orphanage. He was also a former colleague, serving as the Director of our welfare home for the destitute, MWS Christalite Methodist Home.” For the MWS HCHH team, it felt a little surreal caring for one of the organisation’s own, although Mr Goh had left MWS by then.
“The MWS HCHH team was a godsend,” shared Eunice. “With their support, I had one precious week to care for my father at home—a week where he accepted my care without pushing me away. Without their help, he would have gone to a hospital or a nursing home he might not have liked. I’m incredibly grateful for that.”
Life after death
When her father took his last breath in February 2022, Eunice took her first as a bereaved daughter, learning to navigate life without her “steadfast anchor”.
Reflecting on her father’s life, Eunice feels immense pride and strives to carry on his legacy. “I will work hard, love fiercely, and be compassionate and kind. I will try my best to lead a life that would make Daddy proud,” she said. “I find comfort knowing he is in heaven and hold onto the hope that one day, after running my race, I’ll join him in paradise.”
Watch Eunice’s account of caring for her terminally ill father at home, with the support of MWS Home Care & Home Hospice (HCHH).
MWS HCHH provides holistic care for home-bound patients with chronic or life-limiting illnesses, along with emotional and practical support for their caregivers. Learn more at mws.sg.
By the MWS Communications Team. / Photos courtesy of MWS