Our friend Tony is a singer-songwriter in Malaysia. Tony lives the expression “Maximize Life” everyday through his music.
Before the "1st Congress for People Living with CML" officially ended on April 24th, Tony brought his guitar for a sing-along. Everyone came forward and joined in the sing-along. Tony presented the song that he wrote for Max & Pat, "You".
He said, "Let’s make this life a blessing to others."
Our friend Tony is a singer-songwriter in Malaysia. He is also a cancer survivor. Tony lives the expression “Maximize Life” every day through his music. “You” is a song he wrote for Max. What follows is an interview between our MaxStation Malaysia, Mei Ching and Tony Leo Selvaraj.
When were you diagnosed with cancer?
Tony: It was on a Friday, 15th of June 2007 to be exact! I still remember as clear as day.
What was the first thought that came to your mind when the doctor told you about it?
I remember telling myself that "Wow! I'm halfway up the mountain now. This will be a different ball game but with God's help, I know I can climb this mountain."
How did you come up with the idea/thought to write the song, “YOU”?
Tony: I wouldn’t really call it an idea or a thought but I would say it was an immediate reaction after knowing about what The Max Foundation could do for me and getting to know the history of Max and his mom, Pat Garcia-Gonzalez. The only way I could ever say thanks is by writing a song about them and that's how the whole process started.
Is there anything you want to say about meeting Max Family, our Malaysian patient group?
Tony: I was delighted to know that I am not alone in fighting this, that there is a "family" that supports each other and that immediately removed that notion that you are alone in this. I think knowing that you are not alone in this situation, removes the possibility to be in that place where one thinks no one understands and that is also part of the healing process. I am glad I met this wonderful bunch of positive, loving, caring and understanding family.
Since your diagnosis, did you stop doing anything you wished to do (for example, singing or playing music) and how do you inspire yourself to keep doing what you love?
Tony: Ever since my diagnosis, nothing I wished to do was stopped. In fact, I wanted to do more than what I have done in my life because your perception of life changes after that. It's as if you have been given a second chance to enjoy life, this time you want to do deeper, more meaningful deeds!
Do you wish to share any special messages for the important people in your life?
Tony: I want to thank my family especially my mom who has been going through this journey with me. She would come and accompany me at the hospital even when I thought she wouldn’t come! Dr. Haris, who broke the news to me and now we have broken the rules and become really good friends! My friends who came with me to the hospital for check-ups. Mei Ching [MaxStation Malaysia] for being her sweet self and now, Wei Meng [MaxStation Malaysia], who now is Mei Ching’s side kick. Pat Garcia-Gonzalez, who has been the inspiration for my song, you are my living hero! A special thanks to Novartis for being a blessing in our lives, WOW!! And last but not least, God for being the primary mover in my life; You are my song in the night, my joy in the morning!
Do you have any special message for our readers?
Tony: If there's one thing that helps you turn back and look at your life and realize what is important and what is not, it is a blessing, not a curse. To those who are in the same journey as I am, keep your chin up and smile at life. You'll be surprised how life will smile back at you. For those who are friends to survivors, your presence and understanding is like honey to our soul, keep it flowing.
Any final mentions you wish to share?
I just want to say that it is me who is blessed to come to know everyone in The Max Family and how much I appreciate each and everyone of them. Let’s make this life a blessing to others!