What can a motorcycle journey through the Himalayas teach us about facing uncertainty?
Ride Beyond Borders follows Jason and Gene as they take on unfamiliar roads and open up conversations about prostate, kidney and liver cancers. Across a planned six-episode series, the adventure brings together life on the road and perspectives from cancer specialists. In addition, it explores what it means to prepare, find support and face what comes next.
In Episode 1, the journey begins in Leh, Ladakh. Before tackling the mountain roads, the pair get familiar with their bikes and adjust to life at around 3,500 metres above sea level.
Their first conversation starts with a difficult question: what happens when someone hears that they have cancer?
When The News Is Difficult To Take In
Joining them remotely is Associate Professor Kenneth Chen, a senior consultant and uro-oncologist from Singapore General Hospital’s Department of Urology.
He describes how patients may respond with a blank expression, even as the weight of the news begins to settle. Furthermore, he explains that helping someone process that moment is just as important as treating the condition.
For Assoc Prof Chen, this means being clear about the diagnosis, allowing time for the news to sink in, and looking for reasons for hope that reflect the individual’s situation. He also tries to ensure that a family member or friend is present, so the patient has emotional support from the outset.
You Do Not Need The Perfect Words
For loved ones, knowing what to say can feel like a challenge of its own. Should you offer reassurance, ask questions or encourage the person to talk?
Assoc Prof Chen offers a gentler starting point: simply be there.
“But the presence and a hand to hold is important,” he says. “And sharing their emotions silently is just as powerful.”
His message makes room for fear, sadness and uncertainty. It does so without expecting someone to immediately find the words or feel positive.
As Jason and Gene reflect on the conversation, they return to the value of credible information and people they can trust when facing unfamiliar territory.
Watch the first episode of Ride Beyond Borders below for their arrival in Leh, their first outing on the bikes, and the full conversation with Assoc Prof Kenneth Chen.
