#18: The Gift of a New Chapter: Janice Koh’s Wisdom from Cancer

In this personal and inspiring episode, I sit down with Janice Koh, a renowned Singaporean actress, to explore her courageous journey through tongue cancer. At the beginning of 2022, Janice's life was upended by a persistent ulcer that was diagnosed as cancer. Facing multiple surgeries and losing a significant part of her tongue, Janice had to redefine her identity and cope with the loss of her voice—an actor's most cherished tool. Janice candidly shares her emotional turmoil and the resilience required to navigate such life-altering changes. She reflects on finding strength in vulnerability, discovering new sources of joy, and living mindfully in the face of uncertainty. Janice delves into finding inner peace amidst chaos and the significance of suffering in personal growth. She shares her reflections on the preciousness of time, the gift of presence, and the journey of letting go of old identities to embrace new possibilities. Join me as Janice takes us on a journey of rebirth and renewal, offering a testament to the power of the human spirit. Her story is a reminder that even in our darkest moments, there is always hope and the potential for a new beginning. Whether you are facing your own struggles or seeking inspiration, Janice's journey will leave you moved, uplifted, and deeply inspired by the lessons she has learned and the wisdom she imparts. ———— 00:00 Introduction 00:26 Get To Know Janice Koh 02:00 Receiving a Cancer Diagnosis 07:34 Discovering Inner Strength 09:30 Understanding Her Diagnosis 13:08 The Habits That Grounded Her 16:03 How Cancer Transformed Janice’s Life 18:45 Redefining Herself as an Actress 26:57 The Power of Asking for Help 29:27 Experiencing a Rebirth 31:01 Her Relationship with Her Children 33:10 Advice to Her Younger Self 34:38 Balancing Faith and Doubt 35:53 Redefining Success 37:48 Embracing the Present Moment 39:05 Welcoming a New Chapter 41:09 Closing Reflections Follow Rachel here: https://www.instagram.com/ms_rach/ Follow Janice here: https://www.instagram.com/janiceymkoh