Dear friends,
Greetings from Taiwan, my beloved hometown! 🌸 As I embark on this journey back to my roots, I’m embracing not only the warm embraces of family and the nostalgia of familiar streets but also taking a crucial step towards self-care and preventive health. Yes, amidst the hustle and joy of travel, I’m here for a comprehensive health screening—a tradition I’ve come to value deeply, and let me share with you why.
The preparation for this health endeavor began three days ago, with the hospital providing a meticulously organized kit. This wasn’t just any kit; it included detailed instructions and ready-made food pouches for the day before my visit. And guess what? These pouches, designed to ensure a “clean” colonoscopy process, were surprisingly delicious—a rarity for medical prep food!
The actual day of my health screening was an experience I wish everyone could have. Imagine stepping into a facility that feels more like a spa than a hospital, where you’re greeted with a clean locker room, a cozy jogger set, and slippers that whisper comfort to your feet. Checking in at 7:30 am, I embarked on a thorough health journey: a complete physical exam, comprehensive bloodwork, cancer marker screenings, x-rays of the chest and abdomen, ultrasound of the abdominal organs, mammary ultrasound, EKG for the heart, bone density screening, ears / eye / hearing/vision screening, endoscopy and colonoscopy under light anesthesia (with biopsy if needed). —all within a spa-like setting. Within 3 hours, I was done! 👏
The moment I had been dreaming of arrived post-screening 🤤 —a nourishing meal in a serene room, a divine treat after days of bland diets and cleansing. Later, a consultative session with a doctor provided immediate insights, with the promise of a detailed report to follow within a week. This efficiency, paired with the spa-like environment is precisely why I chose to come back for my health screening. I wish it was easier back home in the States, and that this type of preventive care screening is readily available for everyone. This visit wasn’t just a check-up; it was about self-care and making sure I am taking care of my body. 🩵 Luckily there are no major issues, but I do have areas with my eye and liver health that I need to pay more attention to. These early indicators are my guide to staying ahead, ensuring I maintain my health proactively. It’s a powerful reminder that sometimes, our bodies whisper long before they scream, and by listening carefully, we can stay ahead of potential health issues.
I’m a fervent believer in the power of preventive care. It’s the silent guardian that enables us to live our best lives, reminding us that the best cure for disease is preventing the disease in the first place. I advocate for this approach wholeheartedly and encourage everyone to consider how they can incorporate preventive care into their lives.💜
While I recharge and reflect here in Taiwan, I’m comforted knowing that my incredible team is there for you, ensuring that our community continues to thrive in health and happiness. I am grateful for this moment of pause, which allows me to return to you rejuvenated and even more committed to our shared journey towards wellness.
Looking forward to reuniting soon with renewed energy and insights!
Warmly,
Dr. Lily Chen 🌿
Starlight Stories
Hey Unicorns, 🦄
Starlight here, wishing you a bright and cheerful Easter season! 🌸
I’m hopping in with a quick but important message about Easter lilies. These lovely flowers are a no-go for our cat buddies because they’re super toxic to them. Not just Easter lilies, but any kind of lilies. And while dogs are generally not affected, it’s better to play it safe and keep those blooms out of reach.
Let’s make this Easter safe and fun for everyone in the family, including our furry friends. Opt for pet-friendly plants and decorations, and keep those chocolate eggs hidden away from curious noses.
Wishing you a paw-some Easter filled with joy, treats, and snuggles,
Starlight ✨