Overcoming Health Crisis: A Woman’s Journey to Save Family Business

Tay Mui Lan, a third-generation owner of Soon Soon Huat Curry Puff, faced a life-altering challenge when she was diagnosed with a brain tumour. This health crisis not only threatened her wellbeing but also posed a significant risk to her family’s business, which she had taken over to preserve her grandmother’s legacy.

From a young age, Tay aspired to be a fashion designer. However, financial realities forced her into part-time jobs, including waitressing, to support her family. Her father worked multiple jobs to provide for Tay and her four siblings, while her mother contributed through small jobs like babysitting. Growing up in a household where money was always a concern, Tay learned the importance of financial security.

In 2007, during a family dinner, the topic of her grandmother’s business, Soon Soon Huat Curry Puff, came up. Founded in 1992, the shop was at risk of closing due to manpower shortages. Without hesitation, Tay volunteered to take over, motivated by her desire to honor her family’s legacy. She resigned from her stable desk job and embraced the challenges of running the business.

As Tay dedicated herself to the shop, she found fulfillment in her work. Yet, her newfound purpose was abruptly interrupted in 2020 when she experienced persistent dizziness and headaches. A visit to the doctor revealed a 4 cm brain tumour, necessitating emergency surgery. The diagnosis brought fear and uncertainty, especially regarding her two daughters, aged 18 and 5 at the time.

Tay’s past experiences with healthcare costs heightened her anxiety. In 2015, her late grandmother’s hospitalization had led to nearly $500,000 in medical expenses, which the family had to cover without insurance. The financial strain left a lasting impression on Tay, making her acutely aware of the vulnerabilities that come with serious illness.

In 2017, Tay faced another crisis when she discovered her health insurance had lapsed following her divorce. As a single mother, she knew she had to take charge of her financial future. With the guidance of her sister, a financial adviser, she began reassessing her insurance coverage. This process became crucial as she prepared for the unexpected challenges ahead.

When Tay received her tumour diagnosis, the financial safety net she had established proved invaluable. Although the tumour was benign, it required treatment that impacted her daily life. With insurance coverage in place, Tay could focus on recovery without the added burden of financial strain. Having that support allowed her to keep the business operational and manage essential expenses during her treatment.

Family support played a critical role in her recovery. Tay’s uncles and sisters stepped in to help at the shop, ensuring that the business continued to thrive. Their assistance alleviated some pressure, allowing her to concentrate on healing.

Five years later, Tay is still undergoing treatment for a facial nerve disorder that affects her speech and hearing. Returning to the shop after her recovery was challenging, as she had to adapt to new limitations. Initially, simple tasks like taking customer orders became difficult, but her family’s encouragement helped her navigate this transition.

Tay reflects on her journey and the lessons learned during her health crisis. The experience has prompted her to rethink how she discusses financial matters with her daughters. She aims to equip them with a better understanding of financial security and the importance of facing uncertainties.

“I won’t be able to protect them from every hardship,” Tay says, “but I can show them that they need not carry the same fears I had.”

As she continues her work at Soon Soon Huat Curry Puff on East Coast Road, Tay remains committed to preserving her grandmother’s legacy while also ensuring a brighter future for her children. Her story serves as a testament to resilience in the face of unexpected challenges, highlighting the importance of family, financial planning, and the pursuit of one’s passion.