How Stage 4 lung cancer changed this former nightlife boss: From 5 litres of beer a night to Everest Base Camp
Michael Chuah, a former nightlife business owner, shares his journey of personal transformation following a Stage 4 lung cancer diagnosis. He has shifted his focus from a high-stress, alcohol-heavy lifestyle to one centered on health, nature, and supporting other patients.
Why it matters
The story serves as a human-interest piece on how life-altering health crises can lead to radical shifts in personal values and lifestyle priorities.
After spending decades running pubs and F&B businesses, Michael Chuah’s lung cancer diagnosis made him rethink his priorities. Now he finds meaning in hugging trees, travelling, hiking and supporting other cancer patients.
Michael Chuah's lung cancer diagnosis made him rethink his priorities after spending decades running pubs and F&B businesses. (Photo: Eveline Gan)
“Go on, try hugging it,” Michael Chuah said, gesturing to a tree at Singapore Botanical Gardens where the interview took place.
Sensing this writer’s hesitation, the 67-year-old demonstrated, gently wrapping his arms around the trunk, eyes closed and forehead rested against the rough bark.
Five years ago, this would not have been the Michael his family and social circle knew. This was the man who once ran Singapore’s liveliest pubs including the former JJ Mahoney.
Back then, days revolved around the nightlife business. Nights were spent weaving through crowds, socialising and clinking beer glasses under bar lights.
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