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The flight from Cebu to Singapore takes just three hours and four minutes, covering a distance of about 1,511 miles. For most travelers, it is a short journey, but for the Yuvallos family, those miles represented their search for answers and the confidence to navigate one of the most difficult chapters of their lives.
The Yuvallos’ journey did not begin at the airport, but much earlier, with an unexpected discovery that would test their family’s strength over their daughter Janna’s illness. Janna felt no pain and there were no warning signs.
A routine CT scan for an unrelated issue revealed a small lump on her thyroid. Seeking clarity, the family moved from an initial ultrasound to a biopsy. For a second opinion, they turned to Janna’s godmother – a trusted pathologist – and another biopsy, waiting anxiously as a second specialist reviewed the results.
The diagnosis remained the same – stage 1 papillary thyroid carcinoma.
It was dreadfully heartbreaking,” recalled Gerald, the father. “It happened during the pandemic and hearing that our daughter had cancer was something we never imagined.”
Processing the diagnosis and the realities of the COVID-19 pandemic made the difficult situation even more challenging. Travel restrictions made every decision complicated, including who would accompany Janna for her treatments.
The couple had always drawn strength from one another, but pandemic-related travel restrictions forced them to make difficult decisions about how best to support their daughter. Determined not to add to her parents’ worries, Janna tried to remain strong throughout the ordeal. Unable to travel with her, her parents had to rely on her boyfriend to accompany her to the local surgery.
As the family continued exploring their options for Janna’s care, they turned to Singapore’s Parkway Cancer Centre (PCC), encouraged by the positive experiences shared by friends and relatives who had received treatment there.
The Value of Peace of Mind
For the Yuvallos, the value of seeking treatment abroad extended beyond medical expertise. Despite the significant financial investment, they felt the peace of mind and confidence they gained made the experience worthwhile.
From their first consultation, the family appreciated the efficiency and coordination of care, the clear explanations of test results, and the attention given to each procedure. The streamlined billing process also helped ease some of the practical concerns associated with seeking treatment abroad.
“Everything is so convenient and efficient,” the family shared. “The test interpretations are more detailed, and every procedure is carried out with great care. “
What most people see is the cost,” said Gerald. “While it is more expensive, the positive effects very well outweigh the cost. The experience is stress-free, our confidence in the tests is very high, and it has been life-altering. We have less stress, greater confidence, and a more positive outlook.”
The family also appreciated the attention given to their needs as caregivers. Throughout Janna’s treatment, PCC’s doctors, nurses and other healthcare professionals took time to answer their questions and provide educational materials to help them better understand her care and recovery.
“We learned that treatment should be holistic,” Gerald reflected. “We used to think only the patient needed attention and everyone else simply had to cope. With proper education, the burden on caregivers can be greatly reduced, allowing everyone’s well-being to be properly addressed.”
The impact of their journey went beyond recovery. Janna regained not only her health, but also the confidence to share her fears and experiences after once keeping them to herself to protect her parents.
“We have seen her confidence grow,” Janice (the mother) shared. “Her outlook on life has become more positive day by day. Since we went to Parkway Cancer Centre, she has become more vibrant.”
For the family, seeing this change was another reminder that care is not only about addressing a medical condition. It is also about helping patients and their loved ones feel informed, supported, and better equipped to face what lies ahead.
Understanding thyroid health
According to Dr. Khoo Kei Siong, Senior Consultant and Medical Oncologist who helped guide Janna’s care, the Yuvallos’ story is a familiar one.
“Many patients from the Philippines and the region come to Singapore because they seek greater clarity on their condition like the accuracy of their diagnosis, the treatment plan, the specific medications or treatments recommended, and a better understanding of the long-term outcome of their disease,” he said.
When patients cannot get these clear answers at home, they often seek a second opinion to make sure they are receiving the right care.
Dr. Khoo also emphasized the importance of preparation. PCC coordinates with patients before they travel, including identifying the medical records and biopsy specimens they need to bring. Once they arrive in Singapore, the team can provide the next steps or course of action within 38 to 42 hours of their first meeting.
In Janna’s case, the team considered whether her treatment had been completed and whether the cancer could be genetically linked. Her experience also illustrates why it is important to understand the circumstances in which thyroid cancer may be detected.
Although Janna’s cancer was discovered by chance, routine screening is not recommended for otherwise healthy individuals without symptoms, as thyroid cancer is relatively uncommon.
Dr. Khoo explained that screening or genetic testing may be considered in specific situations, such as when a patient has a strong family history of a genetic syndrome associated with thyroid cancer. Screening may also be considered for those who received radiation to the neck at a young age, as this can increase their risk of developing the disease.
A persistent neck lump, hoarseness, or trouble breathing are among the signs that a doctor should check. While these symptoms are not always cancer, it is important to see a medical expert to ensure an accurate diagnosis.
Looking back, the Yuvallos remain grateful that Janna’s condition was discovered at an early stage, giving them the opportunity to seek timely care and gain greater clarity as they moved forward.
“Cancer isn’t as scary as it used to be if it is addressed properly and on time,” Gerald said. “Accept it, talk about it, and seek medical help as soon as possible. Pray as much as you can, but more importantly, consult a medical professional. We are made to be resilient. Once you take that first step, the rest will fall into place.”
For the Yuvallos, the journey from Cebu to Singapore will always mean more than the miles they travelled. They will remember it for the trust they have in their medical team, the genuine compassion experienced during Janna’s treatment, and the hope and confidence that brought them closer together.
