He believes that persistently applying 2T can push back cancer. In Vietnamese, 2T means ‘thuoc’ (medication) and ‘tap luyen’ (exercise).

Phuc, 65, from Nam Dinh, a security guard at the On-Demand Examination Department at the K Tan Trieu Hospital in Hanoi, felt prolonged fatigue and persistent coughing in May 2017. He visited K Hospital for a check-up and was diagnosed with stage 3 lung cancer. Hearing the word "cancer," Phuc was shocked but trusted in scientific treatment to preserve his life.

In July of that year, he underwent surgery to remove part of a lung at the Thoracic Surgery Department. Following that, he went through chemotherapy and immunotherapy to prevent recurrence.

During his treatment days at the hospital, Phuc witnessed the dedication and effort of doctors, nurses, and medical staff. This inspired him to develop a deep appreciation and a desire to work there.

"I often visited the Pediatric Department to sing or join charity activities with the children. Talking with kids battling cancer, I forgot I was a patient. At that time, I expressed my wish to do some work at the hospital, and a doctor referred me to a security company. I was hired as a security guard at the On-Demand Examination Department," Phuc said.

For eight years, he has remained committed to his job, working tirelessly regardless of early mornings, weekends, or regular days. His daily tasks include welcoming and guiding patients, maintaining security and order in the medical area, cleaning, caring for greenery and small landscapes, fixing furniture, and preserving the department’s facilities.

His current residence is within the hospital grounds, arranged by the department, making it convenient for rest and timely support for various tasks.

Thriving with 2T 

After finishing chemotherapy and stabilizing his condition, Phuc began studying more about cancer. For lung cancer patients, breathing exercises and physical activity are among the most effective treatments. He started planning his workouts: waking up at 4am to jog three laps around the hospital.

In 2024, during a follow-up visit, doctors discovered a metastatic spot in his remaining lung and prescribed chemotherapy. During this period, Phuc still managed to run and walk 10km daily. The dark spot in his lung gradually faded.

After over five years of training, he realized that the 2T approach (medication and exercise) keeps him healthy. With medication, he strictly follows the doctor’s treatment, avoiding unverified drugs. With exercise, Phuc believes that increasing oxygen intake ‘scares’ cancer cells, serving as an effective, cost-free medicine.

His current job gives him a sense of purpose - contributing to society and supporting others, especially cancer patients who are still fighting the disease.

“Every working day, I get to meet and talk with patients at the department. I always encourage cancer patients to make time for exercise, stay physically active, and keep welcoming positivity into their lives. That’s how they improve their health and enhance treatment effects,” he said.

Thanks to his dedication to exercise, Phuc won the award for “oldest outstanding athlete” at the “Together We Run 2024” race for cancer patients, earning the respect of many younger participants.

This year, Phuc continues to participate in the “Together We Run 2025” campaign, calling on the community to help raise funds for underprivileged cancer patients receiving treatment at hospitals, centers, and oncology departments across the country. He believes his journey of training, living with illness, and his unwavering dedication will inspire many others.

Phuong Thuy