Hong Kong actor Will Or has revealed that he’s battling stage four lung adenocarcinoma.
The 33-year-old broke the news on Instagram on July 30, sharing that his symptoms began in late May with a lingering cough that didn’t improve even after two rounds of antibiotics.
Concerned, he consulted a respiratory specialist and underwent a CT scan, which revealed an abnormality.
“I was referred to another specialist. When the doctor saw my report, his expression changed, so I joked, ‘The doctor looks so grim. Is it cancer?’
“I thought it would be tuberculosis, but after several days of further testing at the hospital, I was diagnosed with stage four lung adenocarcinoma,” he said.
Or admitted that the diagnosis dealt a heavy blow, and he felt as if he were “walking into emptiness” upon hearing the news.
“I just wanted to sleep and escape. I wanted a break, but I love my work too much. Even when it’s exhausting, I enjoy giving my all,” he said.
Following his discharge, Or went home to shower before heading straight to rehearsals.
Despite his resolve to keep working, the Drifting (2021) star ultimately decided to take a temporary break after consulting his doctor.
“I hope I can still perform. That tiny hope, that tiny desire, those little thoughts and the little bits of support from everyone around me are what I’m holding onto,” he said.
Opening up about the emotional impact of the diagnosis, Or shared that he turned to Google in search of guidance on how to cope.
He then recalled a moment that helped shift his perspective – when his father, in tears, hugged him and said he wished he could take his place.
“At that moment, I felt lucky to have such a loving father. I was even more relieved that it wasn’t him or someone I love who got sick. That’s when I began to accept my diagnosis.”
Or went on to reassure his fans, urging them not to worry or tell him to “stay strong”.
“Living in this crazy world is already hard enough. A smile, a nod or even a strong emoji is enough... That’s all I need to know you’re with me,” he said.
He concluded with a message of hope, writing: “I’ll be OK. Life goes on. I love you all and know I’m cherished by all of you.”
