I grew up in both USA and Taiwan before moving to Singapore. During that time, I turned to running and participating in triathlons to make new friends and cultivate a healthy lifestyle. I have since participated in several regional as well as international marathons.
One of my most memorable marathons was running alongside the famous Maasai runners at the Amazing Maasai Marathon in Laikipia, Kenya, in 2017. What surprised me wasn't just their speed – some completed their runs in about three hours – but how they were running in sandals at high altitude and in the scorching heat! It was truly a humbling experience for me.
Today, I still try to keep fit and healthy in between navigating through my radiology residency and caring for my four-month-old daughter. In addition, I try to spend as much time with my family, whether it's cycling at East Coast Park or taking my eldest daughter to dance class.
Ask any anaesthetist what they're most passionate about outside of work and they'll likely tell you it's travelling – that includes me!
Lately, I make it a point to include long walks and hikes for most of my trips. One of the most memorable trips for me was a multi-day hike in Western Japan. It included stays in several huts and ryokans (traditional Japanese inns). It was during this trip that I felt a very genuine form of Japanese hospitality and I am truly grateful for the kindness I experienced.
I am all for living a good life, which includes food, travel, music, reading and more. However, in truth, it is never easy to balance our clinical work with activities outside. As someone who gets distracted easily, my trips help to keep me grounded, and the time spent away from the operating theatre lets me enjoy good physical as well as spiritual health.
This year during the European summer hiking season, I'll be challenging myself with another walking trail in the French, Italian and Swiss Alps (Tour du Mont Blanc). I am looking forward to the trip and keeping my fingers crossed for favourable hiking conditions. Wish me luck!
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