The first question Dr. Koh asks of us when entering this Bible Study is “Do you want to grow in the knowledge and grace of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ?” If your answer is yes then I think this is the study for you. I am not an authority on the study of the Bible but having read through this outline, I believe you will be on the path. 1 Corinthians is a Christ-centered, life-changing, Bible study guide and daily devotional guide for readers from all walks of life. Dr. Koh emphasizes that all Scripture is given by the inspiration of God, and all are given for us to learn and grow. The study is well written, broken down into units for each participant to review and learn from the word of God. I received this novel from StoryOrigin. This review is my honest opinion, Pamela Anne Reinert, Goodreads, 5 out of 5
A Great Read
A very inspiring book on the teaching of Apostle Paul. A clear explanation of each chapter for a good Bible study. Apostle Paul did not mince words but was very direct in his words. His great love for God is shown in these teachings. There are inspiring prayers too in each chapter. I found this book very informative and better understand these teachings. I am on the ARC team. I leave an honest review. I also recommend this book to other readers, Sharmani Jeyaram, Amazon, 5 out of 5 stars
Foreword
Archbishop Ng Moon Hing, Anglican Archbishop of Southeast Asia
Many people, including Christians, are looking for a perfect church. Someone once said this aptly: ‘If you find a perfect church, please do not join it; because once you join it, it will become imperfect.’ Christians today are always very critical of their church and leadership. They seem to think that the grass is greener next door. They are unconsciously hoping for a ‘Garden of Eden’ within their church. Unfortunately, some Christians resolve to leave their church, which is imperfect, and journey to the next church, which they think is better.
From Malaysia to other continents covering a period of almost fifty years, Koh shared his interesting and colorful memoir with us. I am drawn to stories that show how God guides someone through life’s unpredictable struggles and challenges. The narration in this book is easy to read, J R Wu-Wong, Amazon, Bookbub, Goodreads, 5 stars
I am truly fond of the genre of World Literature, memoirs, and biographies. There is so much we can learn. Dr. Koh’s ability to recount his adventures from childhood to the current day is incredible. The book introduced me to visions of cultural life in countries I have not had the opportunity to explore. One scene surprised me of a woman doing her laundry in a river and being swallowed by a crocodile! All along the way, miracles, triumphs, and tragedy coupled with his belief in God; guided him through the best and worst times. The photos were enjoyable and enhanced the book. I could write pages about all the intricate insights and adventures in this engaging memoir….yet, that would rob you of gaining your own inspiration by reading this enlightening book. Bravo!, Elizabeth O Caroll, Amazon and Good Reads, 5 stars
Memoirs of a Doctor is an inspirational and heart-warming book about faithfulness to God. A book that reminds us to stay strong when the days are hard. Dr. Koh reveals moments of his life in a motivational, educational and engaging way. A book that you will keep in the back of your mind. Great and easy read, Valentina, Goodreads, 5 stars
An endearing read about a young boy who grew up poor in a village in Malaysia. Dr. Andrew C S Koh shares with the reader his truthful and insightful journey into the life of a doctor. He writes in an easy, engaging, interesting manner that will keep the reader engaged. Dr. Koh shares stories about his childhood, education, a career in different towns. He shares his marriage, family, loss of friends, an encounter with paralysis, Pamela Anne Reinert, Amazon, 5 stars
A beautiful life story of Dr.Andrew and his childhood memories. He had many hardships but he overcame all these troubles to become a cardiac doctor. His belief in Christ and his inspiration to testify is very heartwarming. An Inspiring book, Sharmani Jeyaram, Goodreads, 5 stars
Dr. Koh provided glimpses of his life in a short, loveable, and easy-to-read book. I enjoyed his reminiscing about the kind of life he lived in the cities and villages in Malaysia before the arrival of social media. His varied experiences as a government, private, and military physician were a novelty to read as well, Bob, Amazon, 4 stars
I loved reading this book as it took me back to the stories that my grandmother told me of the days when she was growing up. It is hard for some who have grown up with our modern-day computers and gadgets to think of a day when things were slower, harder, and communication even slower. Dr. Koh’s story is a great reminder of where we have come from and to not forget our origins, Rowan Creech, Goodreads., 4 stars
A concise memoir of the doctor’s path from freethinker to Christianity, as well as his feeling of God’s hand of provenance at key junctions in his life! Jan Paessler Amazon, 4 stars
Memoirs of a Doctor is the story of my life. This story began from my birthday on 11th January 1952 until my retirement day on 11th Jan 2020. The purpose of my memoir is to document my life story as a legacy for my family, relatives, and friends. The story traces back to the tough beginnings of the 1950s when life and society were very backward, when industrialization, computerization, social media, and automation were unheard of. Life was slow and leisurely, letters were sent and read through the postal service, and communication was slow, and perhaps inefficient by today’s standard. This book is divided into 8 chapters, each chapter describing a particular stage of my life, with photos relevant to each chapter and a poem before each chapter. The story unfolds with each chapter and culminates with the testimony of my retirement in 2020. There are certainly many valuable life lessons to be learned from a story covering a span of so many years. If any reader is inspired to trust in God, excel in life, and persevere in the face of adversity, this book would have achieved its purpose.
Testimonies:
Bishop Ng Moon Hing, Anglican Bishop of West Malaysia
Indeed, a truthful and insightful journey of life a doctor, Dr. Andrew C S Koh. This is an easy and interesting book and when someone picks up to read, he will not put it down until the last page. A true, interesting, and colorful life story of an ordinary person who becomes a cardiologist with the help and guidance of the one and true God, Jesus Christ. This book indicates to us that though we may not believe or know God, He is always there planning and guiding our lives. The author wishes to share with his readers that when one does know this God, Jesus Christ, He will even more ready to prepare and usher him towards the direction where he can find security, meaning, blessings, and joy. The panoramic view of a village boy to a city doctor, interspersed with beautiful poems, has shown how an honest, innocent young person faced and swam in the ocean of many sophisticated and challenging turbulence. His faith in Jesus Christ has become an oasis for him in the world of struggles, unending expectations, and stressful pressures. A book I find great relief and comfort for the soul.
Dr. Robert, USA:
Dr. Koh provided glimpses of his life through the years in a short, loveable, and easy-to-read book. I enjoyed his reminiscing about the kind of life he used to live in the cities and villages in Malaysia before the arrival of social media. His varied experiences as a government, private, and military physician were a novelty to read as well. I would have wanted him to elaborate more on some of the key events in his life, so perhaps there’s room for a sequel or version 2.0?
Dr Wong Che Hoa, Malaysia:
A well-written Memoir by Dr. Andrew C S Koh, a personal friend for the past 30 years. It provides inspiration to all young aspirants who want to emulate Dr. Andrew‘s footsteps to success both professionally and spiritually. Congratulations on the well-written and meticulous recapture of your life history in words. May God bless you abundantly.
Dr. Kevin, Malaysia:
Such a sweet and colorful life you lead through with God being with you with or without your knowledge as He scripts your life. May God lead us through the current Covid storm. Amen and praise to Him!
Rev. Ng Wah Lok:
Pastor of Full Gospel Tabernacle, Sri Damansara, Malaysia
Principal of Tung Ling Seminary (1999-2019)
I found reading this book very inspiring as Dr. Andrew Koh shares stories about his childhood, education, a career in different towns, marriage and family, loss of friends, close encounter with paralysis, travels, and most of all his love for the Bible. The memoirs include some of his personal poems with the latest one about the Covid 19. Underlining the memoir is his faithfulness to God’s Word, and living a productive and impactful life. At the end of the reading, you will find that God has been his faithful guide and shield all through his life.
Dato KRA Naidu, Malaysia:
Memoirs of a Doctor is an excellent autobiography by Dr. Andrew C S Koh, my ex-student in MES Tanjong Malim way back in 1969. This book took me onto an extraordinary roller coaster ride through the time tunnel of history from 1952 to 2020 from Tanjong Malim across continents. It was undoubtedly an extraordinary journey of faith. It would be amazing if one has a chance to go back in time to live life differently, to change the course of history, and to rectify certain events. Going back in time is an enriching experience and at times painful. A memorable, well-written, enjoyable, and lovely memoir to touch lives, Congratulations.
Carol, Malaysia:
Dr. Koh has portrayed an excellent abstract of his life story defining significant times such as childhood and adolescence, and the times he was touched by the grace of God. It is an interesting book, full of the spices of life, touching, sad, and sweet reminiscences of his past that will stir the heart of any reader. It is extremely well-written with a few sweet little poems here and there. Passionate touches of God in his life give one great inspiration and encouragement to strive on.
Daniel Wong, Malaysia:
My sheep hears my voice and follow me. In a nutshell, Dr. Koh bears testimony to what the Word of God is saying to him even to this very day. There is no shadow of a doubt that he has heard the voice of the Lord Jesus our chief shepherd. Shalom. I am truly encouraged by the memoirs of Dr. Andrew Koh. Praise and glory to the Lamb of God. Amen.
Pastor Joshua Tan, Malaysia:
A very inspiring and encouraging masterpiece presented enthusiastically and passionately. Clearly, the hand of God is with Dr. Andrew C S Koh and transforming him from a nobody into a giant for the Kingdom of God. Go forth, the best is yet to come. May you continue to be a blessing to many via your writings and other endeavors.
Steven Heoe, Auckland, New Zealand:
Dr. Andrew C S Koh’s memoir is a beautiful narration of his life story and journey of faith. It is written in simple English and the book is easy to read. You will be encouraged and inspired, as I was, by his stories and his life as a Christian.
From Malaysia to other continents covering a period of almost fifty years, Koh shared his interesting and colorful memoir with us. I am drawn to stories that show how God guides someone through life’s unpredictable struggles and challenges. The narration in this book is easy to read, J R Wu-Wong, Amazon, Bookbub, Goodreads, 5 stars
I am truly fond of the genre of World Literature, memoirs, and biographies. There is so much we can learn. Dr. Koh’s ability to recount his adventures from childhood to the current day is incredible. The book introduced me to visions of cultural life in countries I have not had the opportunity to explore. One scene surprised me of a woman doing her laundry in a river and being swallowed by a crocodile! All along the way, miracles, triumphs, and tragedy coupled with his belief in God; guided him through the best and worst times. The photos were enjoyable and enhanced the book. I could write pages about all the intricate insights and adventures in this engaging memoir….yet, that would rob you of gaining your own inspiration by reading this enlightening book. Bravo!, Elizabeth O Caroll, Amazon and Good Reads, 5 stars
Memoirs of a Doctor is an inspirational and heart-warming book about faithfulness to God. A book that reminds us to stay strong when the days are hard. Dr. Koh reveals moments of his life in a motivational, educational and engaging way. A book that you will keep in the back of your mind. Great and easy read, Valentina, Goodreads, 5 stars
An endearing read about a young boy who grew up poor in a village in Malaysia. Dr. Andrew C S Koh shares with the reader his truthful and insightful journey into the life of a doctor. He writes in an easy, engaging, interesting manner that will keep the reader engaged. Dr. Koh shares stories about his childhood, education, a career in different towns. He shares his marriage, family, loss of friends, an encounter with paralysis, Pamela Anne Reinert, Amazon, 5 stars
A beautiful life story of Dr.Andrew and his childhood memories. He had many hardships but he overcame all these troubles to become a cardiac doctor. His belief in Christ and his inspiration to testify is very heartwarming. An Inspiring book, Sharmani Jeyaram, Goodreads, 5 stars
Dr. Koh provided glimpses of his life in a short, loveable, and easy-to-read book. I enjoyed his reminiscing about the kind of life he lived in the cities and villages in Malaysia before the arrival of social media. His varied experiences as a government, private, and military physician were a novelty to read as well, Bob, Amazon, 4 stars
I loved reading this book as it took me back to the stories that my grandmother told me of the days when she was growing up. It is hard for some who have grown up with our modern-day computers and gadgets to think of a day when things were slower, harder, and communication even slower. Dr. Koh’s story is a great reminder of where we have come from and to not forget our origins, Rowan Creech, Goodreads., 4 stars
A concise memoir of the doctor’s path from freethinker to Christianity, as well as his feeling of God’s hand of provenance at key junctions in his life!Jan Paessler Amazon, 4 stars
From Malaysia to other continents covering a period of almost fifty years, Koh shared his interesting and colorful memoir with us. I am drawn to stories that show how God guides someone through life’s unpredictable struggles and challenges. The narration in this book is easy to read, J R Wu-Wong, Amazon, Bookbub, Goodreads, 5 stars
I am truly fond of the genre of World Literature, memoirs, and biographies. There is so much we can learn. Dr. Koh’s ability to recount his adventures from childhood to the current day is incredible. The book introduced me to visions of cultural life in countries I have not had the opportunity to explore. One scene that surprised me is that of a woman doing her laundry in a river and being swallowed by a crocodile! All along the way, miracles, triumphs, and tragedy coupled with his belief in God; guided him through the best and worst times. The photos were enjoyable and enhanced the book. I could write pages about all the intricate insights and adventures in this engaging memoir….yet, that would rob you of gaining your own inspiration by reading this enlightening book. Bravo!, Elizabeth O Caroll, Amazon and Good Reads, 5 stars
Memoirs of a Doctor is an inspirational and heart-warming book about faithfulness to God. A book that reminds us to stay strong when the days are hard. Dr. Koh reveals moments of his life in a motivational, educational and engaging way. A book that you will keep in the back of your mind. Great and easy read, Valentina, Goodreads, 5 stars
An endearing read about a young boy who grew up poor in a village in Malaysia. Dr. Andrew C S Koh shares with the reader his truthful and insightful journey into the life of a doctor. He writes in an easy, engaging, and interesting manner that will keep the reader engaged. Dr. Koh shares stories about his childhood, education, a career in different towns. He shares his marriage, family, loss of friends, an encounter with paralysis, Pamela Anne Reinert, Amazon, 5 stars
A beautiful life story of Dr.Andrew and his childhood memories. He had many hardships but he overcame all these troubles to become a cardiac doctor. His belief in Christ and his inspiration to testify is very heartwarming. An Inspiring book, Sharmani Jeyaram, Goodreads, 5 stars
Dr. Koh provided glimpses of his life in a short, loveable, and easy-to-read book. I enjoyed his reminiscing about the kind of life he lived in the cities and villages in Malaysia before the arrival of social media. His varied experiences as a government, private, and military physician were a novelty to read as well, Bob, Amazon, 4 stars
I loved reading this book as it took me back to the stories that my grandmother told me of the days when she was growing up. It is hard for some who have grown up with our modern-day computers and gadgets to think of a day when things were slower, harder, and communication even slower. Dr. Koh’s story is a great reminder of where we have come from and to not forget our origins, Rowan Creech, Goodreads., 4 stars
A concise memoir of the doctor’s path from freethinker to Christianity, as well as his feeling of God’s hand of provenance at key junctions in his life! Jan Paessler Amazon, 4 stars
A great book to study the scriptures in the Bible and gain a better understanding of these lessons. It is a great daily devotional and study for all ages. Each lesson has a beautiful prayer. I am on the ARC team and I leave an honest review. I recommend this book to other readers, J Sharmani, Goodreads, and Bookbub, 5 out of 5 stars.
Foreword
Archbishop Ng Moon Hing, Anglican Archbishop of Southeast Asia These few Epistles of Apostle Paul addressed the main issues of the churches of his time which is wrong teachings, unholy living, and suffering. He was very systematic and thorough in his teaching and witness. As much as he was firm on having correct theology and truth, he was also very conscious and persistent on the proper conduct and holy living of Christ’s followers, the disciples of Christ. He believed that theology that does not lead to holy living and Christ-liked conduct is useless and worthless. On one hand, he praised the belief of the Thessalonians Christians, especially in their ‘work of faith, labour of love, and patience of hope’ in the Lord Jesus Christ, he was also, at the same time, commending them of their imitation of the Lord Jesus Christ and became a model for all believers in Macedonia and Achaia. The author of this book has also emphasized that holy living and proper theology must always go hand in hand. The missing of any one part of the equation will only lead to an imbalanced life which will not please and not bring glory to God Almighty. This book speaks of the plan of God at the end times where God’s children will be taken up to meet Christ in the air before Christ’s second return. In answering the concerns of the Thessalonians Christians, Apostle Paul is also telling us today that God has already considered and included all our pains, shortcomings, sufferings, disappointments, mistakes, failures, and rebellions into His master plan so that He can and has started a good work at His Will of a better future for us.
From Malaysia to other continents covering a period of almost fifty years, Koh shared his interesting and colorful memoir with us. I am drawn to stories that show how God guides someone through life’s unpredictable struggles and challenges. The narration in this book is easy to read, J R Wu-Wong, Amazon, Bookbub, Goodreads, 5 stars
I am truly fond of the genre of World Literature, memoirs, and biographies. There is so much we can learn. Dr. Koh’s ability to recount his adventures from childhood to the current day is incredible. The book introduced me to visions of cultural life in countries I have not had the opportunity to explore. One scene surprised me of a woman doing her laundry in a river and being swallowed by a crocodile! All along the way, miracles, triumphs, and tragedy coupled with his belief in God; guided him through the best and worst times. The photos were enjoyable and enhanced the book. I could write pages about all the intricate insights and adventures in this engaging memoir….yet, that would rob you of gaining your own inspiration by reading this enlightening book. Bravo!, Elizabeth O Caroll, Amazon and Good Reads, 5 stars
Memoirs of a Doctor is an inspirational and heart-warming book about faithfulness to God. A book that reminds us to stay strong when the days are hard. Dr. Koh reveals moments of his life in a motivational, educational and engaging way. A book that you will keep in the back of your mind. Great and easy read, Valentina, Goodreads, 5 stars
An endearing read about a young boy who grew up poor in a village in Malaysia. Dr. Andrew C S Koh shares with the reader his truthful and insightful journey into the life of a doctor. He writes in an easy, engaging, interesting manner that will keep the reader engaged. Dr. Koh shares stories about his childhood, education, a career in different towns. He shares his marriage, family, loss of friends, an encounter with paralysis, Pamela Anne Reinert, Amazon, 5 stars
A beautiful life story of Dr.Andrew and his childhood memories. He had many hardships but he overcame all these troubles to become a cardiac doctor. His belief in Christ and his inspiration to testify is very heartwarming. An Inspiring book, Sharmani Jeyaram, Goodreads, 5 stars
Dr. Koh provided glimpses of his life in a short, loveable, and easy-to-read book. I enjoyed his reminiscing about the kind of life he lived in the cities and villages in Malaysia before the arrival of social media. His varied experiences as a government, private, and military physician were a novelty to read as well, Bob, Amazon, 4 stars
I loved reading this book as it took me back to the stories that my grandmother told me of the days when she was growing up. It is hard for some who have grown up with our modern-day computers and gadgets to think of a day when things were slower, harder, and communication even slower. Dr. Koh’s story is a great reminder of where we have come from and to not forget our origins, Rowan Creech, Goodreads., 4 stars
A concise memoir of the doctor’s path from freethinker to Christianity, as well as his feeling of God’s hand of provenance at key junctions in his life!, Jan Paessler Amazon, 4 stars
From Malaysia to other continents covering a period of almost fifty years, Koh shared his interesting and colorful memoir with us. I am drawn to stories that show how God guides someone through life’s unpredictable struggles and challenges. The narration in this book is easy to read, J R Wu-Wong, Amazon, Bookbub, Goodreads, 5 stars
I am truly fond of the genre of World Literature, memoirs, and biographies. There is so much we can learn. Dr. Koh’s ability to recount his adventures from childhood to the current day is incredible. The book introduced me to visions of cultural life in countries I have not had the opportunity to explore. One scene that surprised me is that of a woman doing her laundry in a river and being swallowed by a crocodile! All along the way, miracles, triumphs, and tragedy coupled with his belief in God; guided him through the best and worst times. The photos were enjoyable and enhanced the book. I could write pages about all the intricate insights and adventures in this engaging memoir….yet, that would rob you of gaining your own inspiration by reading this enlightening book. Bravo!, Elizabeth O Caroll, Amazon and Good Reads, 5 stars
Memoirs of a Doctor is an inspirational and heart-warming book about faithfulness to God. A book that reminds us to stay strong when the days are hard. Dr. Koh reveals moments of his life in a motivational, educational and engaging way. A book that you will keep in the back of your mind. Great and easy read, Valentina, Goodreads, 5 stars
An endearing read about a young boy who grew up poor in a village in Malaysia. Dr. Andrew C S Koh shares with the reader his truthful and insightful journey into the life of a doctor. He writes in an easy, engaging, and interesting manner that will keep the reader engaged. Dr. Koh shares stories about his childhood, education, a career in different towns. He shares his marriage, family, loss of friends, an encounter with paralysis, Pamela Anne Reinert, Amazon, 5 stars
A beautiful life story of Dr.Andrew and his childhood memories. He had many hardships but he overcame all these troubles to become a cardiac doctor. His belief in Christ and his inspiration to testify is very heartwarming. An Inspiring book, Sharmani Jeyaram, Goodreads, 5 stars
Dr. Koh provided glimpses of his life in a short, loveable, and easy-to-read book. I enjoyed his reminiscing about the kind of life he lived in the cities and villages in Malaysia before the arrival of social media. His varied experiences as a government, private, and military physician were a novelty to read as well, Bob, Amazon, 4 stars
I loved reading this book as it took me back to the stories that my grandmother told me of the days when she was growing up. It is hard for some who have grown up with our modern-day computers and gadgets to think of a day when things were slower, harder, and communication even slower. Dr. Koh’s story is a great reminder of where we have come from and to not forget our origins, Rowan Creech, Goodreads., 4 stars
A concise memoir of the doctor’s path from freethinker to Christianity, as well as his feeling of God’s hand of provenance at key junctions in his life!Jan Paessler Amazon, 4 stars
From Malaysia to other continents covering a period of almost fifty years, Koh shared his interesting and colorful memoir with us. I am drawn to stories that show how God guides someone through life’s unpredictable struggles and challenges. The narration in this book is easy to read, J R Wu-Wong, Amazon, Bookbub, Goodreads, 5 stars
I am truly fond of the genre of World Literature, memoirs, and biographies. There is so much we can learn. Dr. Koh’s ability to recount his adventures from childhood to the current day is incredible. The book introduced me to visions of cultural life in countries I have not had the opportunity to explore. One scene that surprised me is that of a woman doing her laundry in a river and being swallowed by a crocodile! All along the way, miracles, triumphs, and tragedy coupled with his belief in God; guided him through the best and worst times. The photos were enjoyable and enhanced the book. I could write pages about all the intricate insights and adventures in this engaging memoir….yet, that would rob you of gaining your own inspiration by reading this enlightening book. Bravo!, Elizabeth O Caroll, Amazon and Good Reads, 5 stars
Memoirs of a Doctor is an inspirational and heart-warming book about faithfulness to God. A book that reminds us to stay strong when the days are hard. Dr. Koh reveals moments of his life in a motivational, educational and engaging way. A book that you will keep in the back of your mind. Great and easy read, Valentina, Goodreads, 5 stars
An endearing read about a young boy who grew up poor in a village in Malaysia. Dr. Andrew C S Koh shares with the reader his truthful and insightful journey into the life of a doctor. He writes in an easy, engaging, and interesting manner that will keep the reader engaged. Dr. Koh shares stories about his childhood, education, a career in different towns. He shares his marriage, family, loss of friends, an encounter with paralysis, Pamela Anne Reinert, Amazon, 5 stars
A beautiful life story of Dr.Andrew and his childhood memories. He had many hardships but he overcame all these troubles to become a cardiac doctor. His belief in Christ and his inspiration to testify is very heartwarming. An Inspiring book, Sharmani Jeyaram, Goodreads, 5 stars
Dr. Koh provided glimpses of his life in a short, loveable, and easy-to-read book. I enjoyed his reminiscing about the kind of life he lived in the cities and villages in Malaysia before the arrival of social media. His varied experiences as a government, private, and military physician were a novelty to read as well, Bob, Amazon, 4 stars
I loved reading this book as it took me back to the stories that my grandmother told me of the days when she was growing up. It is hard for some who have grown up with our modern-day computers and gadgets to think of a day when things were slower, harder, and communication even slower. Dr. Koh’s story is a great reminder of where we have come from and to not forget our origins, Rowan Creech, Goodreads., 4 stars
A concise memoir of the doctor’s path from freethinker to Christianity, as well as his feeling of God’s hand of provenance at key junctions in his life!Jan Paessler Amazon, 4 stars
On 26th December 2019, I attended a post-Christmas, pre-New Year celebration dinner with my cardiologist colleagues in a hotel in Ipoh.
After dinner, when I was leaving the restaurant, I tripped and fell. I cannot quite remember how I fell. I must have momentarily lost consciousness, and when I came to myself, I saw my friends looking at me and calling out to me.
I could see and hear them, but I had a strange feeling. I could not feel my body from below the neck, and this was frightening! It was as though my head was cut off from the rest of my body. I could not move my hands and feet. I had no sensation whatsoever below my neck. It dawned on me then that I was a tetraplegic – the fall must have resulted in neck injury and spinal shock.
My colleagues called for an ambulance and transferred me to KPJ Ipoh Specialist Hospital. The paramedics were very careful not to move my neck and protected it with a cervical collar. I was immediately taken for an emergency MRI brain and neck scan and subsequently admitted to the ICU.
The MRI scan showed no head trauma, but there was a prolapsed intervertebral at the C3/C4 level causing a 90% compression of the spinal cord, confirming the diagnosis of a prolapsed intervertebral disc with cervical myelopathy at the C3/C4 level. By then, it was already past midnight.
The Spinal Surgery
The next morning, I was taken for a CT scan of the neck to delineate the prolapse intervertebral disc in more detail. By then, the spinal shock had resolved but I was still tetraplegic. The spinal surgeon who attended to me advised urgent spinal cord decompression surgery to remove the prolapsed intervertebral disc and to decompress the spinal cord.
He explained that this was a delicate and precise operation, and indicated that there was a risk of permanent spastic tetraplegia in the event of complications arising during the operation. At 8pm on 27th December 2019, I was wheeled into the operating theatre for my scheduled operation. I heard the anesthetists in attendance saying that they were giving me pure oxygen, and will be putting me to sleep.
Rehabilitation and Recuperation
The next thing that I remember was the doctors calling my name, asking me to wake up, saying that the operation was over. When I opened my eyes, I saw the doctors, nurses, paramedics, and the clock in the operation theatre – indicating that it was 11pm.
I was wheeled back to the ICU. After eight days in the hospital, I was well enough to be discharged on a wheel chair. After six more weeks of outpatient physiotherapy and rehabilitation, I finally recovered and was discharged from physiotherapy.
At that time, the Covid-19 pandemic kicked in, and the whole country was under lockdown. It took me another two months more before I became fully ambulant. It is now 12 months after my operation, and I am fully ambulant.
Thanks from a grateful heart
I truly want to thank God for saving my life. He rescued me from spinal shock and spastic tetraplegia. God also saw me through the successful spinal surgery and post-operation rehabilitation. My gratitude to all my cardiologist colleagues for calling the ambulance and protecting my neck during the ambulance transfer.
I also want to thank my wife, my sons, my daughters-in-law, my sister, my nephew, my relatives, my in-laws, my friends, my colleagues, my pastors, my church members, my school classmates, and my university classmates for their support. And I am very grateful for all those who prayed for me, cared for me, visited me, cooked for me, bought food for me, supported me, encouraged me, and reassured me.
And finally, I want to thank the spinal surgeon, neurosurgeon, neurologist, anesthetists, radiologists, staff nurses, nursing aides, paramedical staffs, radiographers, physiotherapists, KPJ ISH hospital directors, and all the other hospital staff, who attended to me during my hospitalization.
Nothing short of a miracle
According to one of my cardiologist friends who was with me during the dinner, and who was an eye witness to the accident, I fell with my head facing downwards hitting the floor, and I seemed lifeless for about 2 to 3 minutes. He said that at that moment, he thought I had died and was very worried for me. Fortunately, I revived spontaneously.
According to my eldest son, who is an anesthetist in New Zealand, injuries such as this almost always result in permanent tetraplegia. He is convinced that my complete recovery in such a short time is indeed a miracle.
Living in the goodness of God
So many people prayed for me, through WhatsApp messenger and in person. My wife and sister were very supportive throughout my hospital stay and post-operation. My in-laws were also very supportive throughout my ordeal. They drove me to various places outside Ipoh during the Chinese New Year of 2020 for food and recreation, just to cheer me up.
I thank God for preserving my life so that I can continue to serve Him. God is good! His love, compassion, mercy, and grace were lavished on me. God’s eyes were on me throughout my ordeal – I experienced such amazing grace. Once I could not walk but now can walk! I hope this testimony will be an encouragement for you as it has been and continues to be for me.
Retired and refired
On 11th January 2020, I celebrated my 68th birthday. It also marked the day I hung up my stethoscope for good and promoted it into a museum piece, after 48 years of practicing medicine. I resigned from my position in Perak Community Specialist Hospital and KPJ Ipoh Specialist Hospital and officially retired from medical practice for good.
After retirement, I began serving the Lord in St. Andrews Presbyterian Church Pengkalan, Ipoh, as a lay preacher, bible teacher, worship leader, and bass guitarist. I also became an author and self-published several books. Retirement gave me the time that I needed to do the things I previously could not do.
Over the past 12 months, I have authored 8 books including Expository Commentaries on the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke and John, Acts of the Apostles and Romans, Expository Preaching, Daily Devotions from the Gospel of Mark, and Memoirs of a Doctor.
I wish to praise My God for His abundant blessings that He has bestowed upon me and my family.
