In the labyrinth of medical uncertainty, Jane finds herself at a crossroads as her mother, Mrs. Tan, battles a mysterious illness that defies diagnosis and resolution. Over the span of two months, Mrs. Tan has undergone an array of tests, consulted with specialists, and endured hospital stays, yet the root cause of her breathing issues remains elusive.

Desperation looms as Jane recounts the exhaustive efforts made to seek answers. A trail of medical consultations—from geriatrician to cardiologist and gastroenterologist—has left them with no solution. Even hospitalization, both in private and public settings, has failed to alleviate Mrs. Tan’s persistent breathing problems.

With a heavy heart, Jane reaches out for assistance, questioning the efficacy of our healthcare and medical channels. Tests, including CT scans and radiology, have shown no abnormalities. Cardiologists have been unable to provide a solution, and Mrs. Tan’s pain persists, leading Jane feeling helpless of how she can help her mom relieve of her pain.

The frustration peaks as Mrs. Tan encounters the unknown, grappling not only with breathing difficulty but also chest and gastric pain. Seeking solace in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), they face a new set of challenges, including diarrhoea and fever. Private hospital visits yield no conclusive results, intensifying Mrs. Tan’s depression.

Navigating the healthcare system becomes a disheartening be endeavour. Jane, armed with little more than unanswered questions, reflects on the fragmented nature of medical care. Specialists focus on their areas of expertise, leaving the Tan family to navigate the gaps on their own.

Amidst the struggle, Jane faces the harsh reality that the healthcare system’s inefficiencies compound their distress. Waiting times for general practitioners are lengthy, and the prospect of government hospital appointments stretches into the distant future.

As uncertainty shrouds Mrs. Tan’s prognosis, the family grapples with the negative forecast given by a medium. In the absence of clear direction, they embark on a journey marked by uncertainty, seeking help wherever they can. Jane’s plea for assistance echoes the frustration of many who find themselves lost in the complexities of a healthcare system that falls short of providing timely and comprehensive solutions.