In a heartening journey punctuated by determination and resilience, Chef Shirley Chung, famed for her stint on ‘Top Chef,’ has shared an encouraging update on her battle with tongue cancer.
Shirley Chung, known for her culinary talent and charisma on the television show ‘Top Chef,’ recently shared a major personal victory. Having been diagnosed with tongue cancer in July, Chung underwent intense treatment, including a 10-week course of radiation and chemotherapy at the University of Chicago. This week, she celebrated a significant milestone by ringing the ‘victory bell,’ a tradition for patients who have completed their cancer treatment.
The journey wasn’t without its ordeals. Chung spoke candidly about an unexpected emergency surgery she had to undergo for her G-tube, which is essential for delivering medicine and nutrients directly to her stomach. ‘As I thought the toughest part of cancer has passed … I experienced the hardest/worst days of my life during recovery,’ Chung shared on Instagram. She described the painful aftermath of her treatments, including severe blisters, peeling, and bleeding in her mouth and throat. Yet, amidst these challenges, Chung’s spirit remained unbroken.
In the summer, when Shirley first revealed her diagnosis to her followers, she shared poignant moments of shaving her head surrounded by loved ones, while her chemotherapy was successfully shrinking her tumor. Despite the heavy toll of the disease and its treatment, her speech began to improve and she regained some of her taste sensations, including a partial return of sweetness and savory flavors.
Tongue cancer is relatively rare, accounting for about one percent of new cancer cases. It is notoriously hard to catch early because its symptoms often mimic minor dental issues. Chung’s own diagnosis followed months of persistent dental problems and was only confirmed after ulcers and a tumor were discovered beneath her tongue. Initially, the prognosis included the daunting possibility of removing her tongue entirely, but after learning about a ‘unicorn case’ at the University of Chicago, Chung opted for chemotherapy and radiation instead.
Her decision reflected her resolve to keep her culinary dreams alive. Despite the grueling treatments, she chose a path that allowed her to maintain her tongue. This path echoed the inspiring story of another chef, Grant Achatz, who similarly overcame a grave prognosis of tongue cancer without resorting to drastic surgery.
The symptoms and progression of tongue cancer vary, but the primary methods of treatment generally include surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy. Cancers caught in early stages have a more optimistic outcome, often treated by excising the tumor and surrounding tissues. More advanced cases might require radiation or chemotherapy, and very rarely, removal of the entire tongue, which significantly affects speech and eating capabilities. However, with advances in treatment, many patients, like Chung, can manage a difficult recovery with support and modern medical interventions.
As Chung now prepares for a final check-up in January, her journey serves as a testament to her resilience and fighting spirit. With her treatments behind her, she looks forward to reclaiming her life and career in full force, eager to embrace what she calls ‘Shirley Chung 2.0.’
Shirley Chung’s experience with tongue cancer highlights not only her personal resilience but also raises awareness for a rare but serious illness. Her optimism and determination are inspiring, reminding us of the strength found in perseverance and the support from loved ones and medical professionals.
