Michelle Chong & Her Dad Take on Diabetes, Heart Disease—and They’re Doing It With Style
Meet Michelle Chong, the beloved Singapore comedian who’s more than just a laugh‑maker. She’s here to fight an invisible enemy: diabetes. And she’s got a sidekick – her father, Steven “Papa Chong”, who’s been battling the same beast for decades.
Backstory: 30 Years of Diabetes Trips
- Mr Chong, 71, first tasted the sting of Type 2 diabetes 30 years ago.
- He also had to go under the knife for a triple bypass – a heart‑surgery mega‑operation that tackles three blocked arteries.
- And the younger generation? Michelle’s been at his side through every hospital chair, every IV line.
Why This Matters
According to the World Heart Federation, folks with diabetes are two‑to‑four times more likely to end up with heart disease. That’s a real kicker: half of all heart‑attack victims in Singapore have diabetes.
Pitching a Campaign
Both mother and son are brand ambassadors for “For Your Sweetheart.” The project is a national shout‑out that wants everyone to see the link between sweet (diabetes) and hard (heart disease). It’s a joint effort between Diabetes Singapore, Singapore Heart Foundation, and Boehringer Ingelheim.
From the Frontlines: World Diabetes Day 2024
Michelle and Papa Chong were spotted at the Suntec Singapore Convention & Exhibition Centre on Sunday, Nov 4. They were the stars of a Diabetes Singapore event that celebrated World Diabetes Day (Wednesday, Nov 14).
Michelle’s Takeaway
“I was doing my A‑levels when my dad’s heart kicked up the ante and he needed a triple bypass. Seeing him on all those tubes, looking fragile and vulnerable… it was a real jolter.”
Simply put: that moment sealed the bond between the two. “It made us tighter, and we’re both now on a mission to keep our hearts and families healthy,” Michelle says with a smile.
Father’s Field Guide to Diabetes Survival
For those of you wondering how Papa Chong keeps his sugar levels in check, here’s the scoop:
- Past habits: “Back in my working days I’d gobble up four roti pratas in one go.”
- New rules: His family is now in the mix, watching him avoid sugary and oily foods.
- Teamwork: They hit the gym together — brisk walks and table‑tennis matches keep him active and happy.
He’s also been a poster child for family support. “Don’t be afraid to lean on your loved ones. They’re the best backup crew you can have.”
Clinical Twist: Dr. Mohd Azhar Ahmad Speaks Up
Dr Azhar, 46, head of the medical department at Boehringer Ingelheim for Malaysia and Singapore, puts the science into plain language:
“High blood sugar can chew up your blood vessels and nerves over time, which means your heart gets a spare dose of stress. Add in higher blood pressure and cholesterol, and you’ve got a recipe for heart disease.”
In short, dieters should keep an eye on their sugar, but also on the health of their heart and cholesterol.
In Closing
Michelle and Papa Chong prove that a family united can tackle something as tough as diabetes and heart disease. Their story reminds us: stay vigilant, eat smart, move often, and bring your family into the mix. After all, the best medicine? Love and support.
