At the end of 2025, Loe (a pseudonym), a 51-year-old businessman from Indonesia, never expected that a dull pain in his upper right abdomen would lead him far beyond his home country—on a cross-border journey in search of answers, and ultimately, healing.
01 An Unanswered Question, A Decision to Look Abroad
In Jakarta, medical reports pointed to a pancreatic mass, yet the underlying cause remained unclear. As the pain gradually worsened and uncertainty grew, Loe found himself facing difficult choices. It was then that a friend suggested seeking care in China, at Foshan Fosun Chancheng Hospital in Foshan.
"They are known for their expertise," the friend told him. "They might be able to give you clearer answers."
Carrying a file of medical records—and a quiet hope—Loe boarded a flight to China.
02 Multidisciplinary Expertise, Brings Clarity
Upon arriving in Foshan, the professional and attentive reception from the International Medical Services team immediately put Loe at ease. After admission, the hospital quickly initiated a multidisciplinary diagnostic approach. With detailed imaging studies and pathological assessments, the clinical picture became clear: a pancreatic malignancy (mucinous adenocarcinoma), complicated by acute cholangitis, obstructive jaundice.
Given the complexity of the case, the hospital brought together a multidisciplinary team that included both in-house specialists and leading pancreatic surgeons from across China. The consultations were jointly conducted by Professor Tan Zhijian and Professor Huang Youxing, with overall treatment planning led by Professor Qu Xiaowei, President of the Surgical Hospital and Director of the General Surgery Division, together with Zhang Haixiong, Deputy Director of Hepatobiliary Surgery. Together, they developed a personalized surgical and comprehensive treatment plan tailored specifically to Loe's condition.
03 Expertise with Compassion, A Home Away from Home
"We recommend proceeding with surgery as soon as possible," the medical team advised.
Through clear explanations and continuous interpretation support from the International Medical Services team, Loe was able to fully understand both his diagnosis and the proposed treatment. This transparent communication helped ease his anxiety and build confidence in the plan ahead.
Although he felt nervous before surgery, the calm professionalism and attentive care of the medical staff reassured him. The procedure—a laparoscopic pancreaticoduodenectomy—was performed successfully by the hepatopancreatobiliary surgery team. Postoperative pathology confirmed that the tumor had been completely removed, with no evidence of lymph node metastasis.
What made the journey truly unforgettable, however, was the warmth beyond medical expertise. At Christmas, the staff quietly prepared a small celebration for him. Even more touching, they remembered his wife’s birthday and surprised her with a cake and heartfelt wishes.
04 The Echo of Trust, A Story That Continues
"If you are facing a complex medical problem," he says, "China is worth considering—and Foshan Fosun Chancheng Hospital is a place you can trust."
This journey—spanning more than 4,000 kilometers—began with a recommendation and was made possible by a team defined by both clinical expertise and genuine compassion. It is not only a story of successful treatment for a complex condition, but also a testament to trust, courage, and the power of care that transcends borders and cultures.
