StoriesRecently, a simple yet heartwarming birthday celebration took place in the ward of the International Minimally Invasive Oncology Center at Guangdong Pharmaceutical University Guangzhou Fosun Chancheng Hospital (Guangzhou Xinshi Hospital). The medical staff gathered to put a birthday hat on Haila (pseudonym), an oncology patient from Indonesia, presenting her with flowers and candles to celebrate her birthday.
Facing Adversity: Cancer Diagnosis and Seeking Treatment Abroad
A month ago, 68-year-old Haila was diagnosed with lung adenocarcinoma. Determined to receive more comfortable minimally invasive treatment, she traveled to China on a friend's recommendation to seek care at the hospital's International Minimally Invasive Oncology Center for comprehensive minimally invasive therapy.
Upon admission, Haila had significant pleural effusion in her right thoracic cavity, and combined with her larger body frame, mobility was greatly restricted. The medical team promptly performed a thoracentesis to drain the accumulated fluid. Following an in-hospital MDT (multidisciplinary team) consultation, a personalized treatment plan involving angiography, perfusion, and embolization was developed. The procedure was completed smoothly, and Haila's pleural effusion improved significantly.
Crossing Thousands of Miles: A Heartwarming Two-Way Journey Between Patient and Staff
Despite traveling thousands of miles to seek treatment in a foreign country with family by her side, Haila inevitably felt anxious. However, the compassionate attitude of the medical staff at the International Minimally Invasive Oncology Center made her feel as secure as being at home, easing her inner anxiety and unfamiliarity.
Due to the language barrier and unfamiliarity with the local living environment, the center arranged dedicated translators to accompany Haila and her family throughout treatment and care discussions. The nursing staff proactively downloaded translation apps to ensure smooth daily communication. Whenever Haila needed to move around, nurses accompanied her, providing attentive care.
After 20 days of meticulous treatment and nursing care, Haila's condition was brought under control.
Making a Wish Together: Light for the Future, Warmth as at the Beginning
Before discharge, Head Nurse Tan Xiumei of the International Minimally Invasive Oncology Center learned that Haila's birthday was approaching. Together with the department's medical staff, she organized a simple yet heartwarming birthday party, presenting flowers, cake, and blessings. The warm atmosphere filled the entire ward.
Seeing the thoughtfully prepared celebration, Haila was moved beyond words. Head Nurse Tan expressed: "Birthdays represent life and hope. We want our patients to leave with not just memories of treatment, but also spiritual comfort and warm care."
Celebrating patients' birthdays is just one of many compassionate care initiatives at the International Minimally Invasive Oncology Center. Since its establishment, the center has integrated humanistic care and compassionate service throughout the treatment process, creating a warm, safe, and comfortable healthcare environment and building more harmonious patient-provider relationships.