Janice Koh’s Courageous Fight Against Tongue Cancer
In an intimate Instagram post, 48‑year‑old actress and former Nominated Member of Parliament, Janice Koh, revealed the roller‑coaster journey she’s been on battling tongue cancer.
The Unlikely Beginning
- Late July: a small ulcer popped up.
- Despite her busy schedule—acting gigs, travel, and life—it was quickly ignored.
- Turns out it was malignant, and in no time it put her life on pause.
Surgeries, Chemo‑Radiation, and a Determined Mind
Koh underwent two major operations followed by chemo‑radiation to eradicate visible tumors and slash the risk of recurrence. She said, “As a performer, discovering this tumor felt like a career‑threating plot twist—my voice and my work were at stake. But the first thing I thought was: I’ve got to beat this, survive, and be there for my kids and family in the long haul.”
Family and Support
She’s married to Mr. Lionel Yeo, the former chief executive at Singapore Sports Hub, and they share two sons. “I told my doctors to do whatever it takes. I’m grateful they caught it early enough to treat it effectively,” she wrote.
Thanks to a trusted medical team and her family and close friends, Janice is already feeling hopeful.
Next Steps: Rest, Recovery, and Re‑Learning
With treatments concluding, the focus is on:
Rest, recovery, and getting back on my feet.
She noted, “Speech and eating have taken a hit, but I have faith that therapy and time will bring improvement.”
The Last Treatment Day
In a touching photo, Janice said goodbye to her radiation shell—a mould used for targeting—signalling the end of an intense chapter.
Why Janice Koh Is a Star, Both on Stage and Off
With over 50 theatre productions worldwide and television roles in Fighting Spiders and The Pupil, not to mention her part in the Hollywood hit Crazy Rich Asians, Janice has always dazzled audiences. Her stint as an NMP from 2012‑2014 is a testament to her dedication to societal service.
She’s a shining example—spitting out courage, blending humour, and reminding us that the human spirit can outshine even the toughest of disease. Keep watching; she’s on the comeback trail, ready to conquer both the stage and every obstacle life throws her way.
