Shirley Chung, a former contestant on “Top Chef,” shared with her Instagram followers that she has been diagnosed with stage 4 tongue cancer. The diagnosis came after she experienced dental issues such as biting her tongue severely and fracturing a tooth. Despite the initial misdiagnosis due to teeth grinding, Chung eventually discovered a hidden tumor under her tongue, leading to the diagnosis of stage 4 tongue cancer.
Upon receiving the news, Chung remained calm and focused on getting tests and scans done quickly in order to start treatment plans. However, when discussing treatment options with her doctor, she broke down emotionally upon hearing that one option involved the complete removal of her tongue. Chung and her partner, Jimmy, were relieved to learn about another option involving radiation and chemotherapy with higher survival rates but required going to the University of Chicago.
Chung chose to pursue the less invasive treatment option in order to keep her tongue, citing her determination to fight the cancer like a unicorn case that had been successfully treated with radiation and chemotherapy at the University of Chicago. She began a grueling treatment regimen of chemotherapy and injections but remained optimistic about her progress. In a positive update, Chung shared that her tumor had started shrinking, her speech had improved, and she was able to eat more normally again.
Despite initially keeping her diagnosis limited to close friends and family, Chung eventually decided to share her journey with a larger audience. She expressed the importance of leaning on others, being vulnerable, and acknowledging that it’s okay to not be okay at times. Chung credited the support of her loved ones in helping her through the challenges of her cancer treatment and recovery. She expressed gratitude for the encouragement she had received and looked forward to returning stronger in the future.
As Chung continues her treatment and recovery process, she remains determined to emerge from this experience as Shirley Chung 2.0, promising her followers that she will be reborn in 2025. She acknowledged the tough road ahead but expressed confidence in her ability to overcome the obstacles that lie before her. Chung’s message resonated with many as she shared her journey with honesty and vulnerability, inspiring others to find strength in their own struggles and rely on the support of those around them.
