“…In sickness and in health, for as long as we both shall live.”
Most, if not all of us, are no stranger to marriage vows. These are sacred promises that are made between two people who are committed to love one another until the very end. Of course, the bride and groom who make these vows intend and expect to grow old together, as they look forward to their new life chapter in decades and decades to come.
However, not for this couple. Koh Ming Hao, who had recently lost his battle with cancer after fighting for four years! What’s even more heartbreaking is that the man was married his long-time sweetheart, Daphnie Chong in August 2016 and she knew full well that he had terminal cancer.
Koh, 34, passed away on June 8, just 10 months after his wedding.
Koh – who was fondly known by his friends as Ming – was diagnosed with terminal stomach cancer in June 2013 and was only given a year to live. Against all odds however, he was able to live for another three years, as reported by The Star.
Koh and Chong had been dating since they were both 15 and were devastated when news of his cancer emerged.
“I thank heaven he was not taken away a year later, but lived three more years. From that time on, we were determined to live every day to the fullest,” Chong said.
Ever since Koh was diagnosed, he has underwent over 60 chemotherapy sessions and countless operations.
“I couldn’t leave when he was at his lowest… I wanted to be with him every day for the remainder of his days,” Chong said.
Unfortunately, his condition took a turn for the worse last month and just last Friday, Chong took to Facebook to inform everyone that “Ming has ended his journey peacefully at midnight” and she thanked everyone for “all the love and support through his toughest journey”.
“He will always be in my heart. He will always be the best boyfriend and best husband, to me,” she added.
During his battle with cancer, Koh made use of his ‘Watch Ming Beat Cancer’ Facebook page to share his experience as well as help and encourage other patients. The page is no longer available.
Truly, we see that love knows no limits and even though Koh and Chong knew their days together were numbered, it was a risk worth taking.
Our hearts go out to the families of Koh and Chong and everyone else affected.
Also read: Malaysian Couple Tragically Commits Suicide Due to RM100,000 Loan Shark Debt