RAISING more than RM1mil for children living with cancer, Lim Shyang Guey believes it is the best way to honour his late wife, Goh Joo Lee.
The 67-year-old cancer awareness advocate and endurance runner may have completed his Run for Gold journey – an 86-day, 2,200km run across Peninsular Malaysia – in June, but he has continued raising funds and awareness for the cause.
“My wife died of gallbladder cancer, which is hard to detect.
“When I thought of other causes, I came across children with cancer and their needs.
“While treatment at government hospitals is free, parents need to consider the cost of living, accommodation and other expenses.
“Many of these families come from the B40 community and live in rural areas.
“I was touched by what the National Cancer Society Malaysia (NCSM) was doing to aid these families, and decided to raise funds for them,” Lim said when met at the Home of Hope for the hall naming ceremony dedicated to the memory of his wife.
The home in Lebuhraya Rose, owned by Penang Island City Council (MBPP) and leased to NCSM, is a holistic care centre for those battling cancer.
The hall serves as a space for educational workshops, awareness talks and support initiatives catering to cancer patients, survivors, caregivers and the wider Penang community.
Lim, who has been appointed as an adviser for NCSM (Penang), said he did not take the role lightly and would look for ways to make a difference.
The father-of-two set out on the fundraising mission earlier this year in memory of Goh, his wife of 37 years.
The couple had planned to spend their retirement exploring Malaysia together on foot but Goh passed away from gallbladder cancer in August 2024.
The retired civil engineer ended his cross-country run with over RM775,000 raised, but he continued to push ahead with the target of reaching RM1mil.
NCSM president Datuk Dr S. Saunthari said Lim had dedicated his whole journey and movement to supporting NCSM and children fighting cancer.
“That journey was not just about running, as it was personal and one born from love, loss and the desire to ensure that other families facing cancer would not have to face their journey alone.
“His commitment to supporting children with cancer did not end with the completion of his run, as he continues to actively raise funds for the battle against childhood cancer.
“The naming of this hall is about keeping Goh’s memory alive through the lives of the children and families who will find comfort here.
“Every family and child who finds hope here will carry forward Goh’s legacy,” Dr S. Saunthari said.
Penang NCSM patron and guest-of-honour Tan Lean Kee said Lim had tirelessly continued to raise funds for the cause and inspired many to do the same.
“His determination has encouraged many others to come forward and give back to society, particularly towards supporting cancer patients and their families,” she said.
Tan said Home of Hope was a special part of NCSM’s work, explaining that when someone was diagnosed with cancer, their journey would involve not only doctors, hospitals and treatment.
“It involves the practical challenges that come with receiving care, particularly for patients who have to travel away from home.
“For some families, finding a place to stay can become an additional burden.
“The home provides a safe place to rest, a place where caregivers can stay close to their loved ones, and peace of mind so that patients can focus on their treatment and recovery,” she said.
