Celebrity chef Shirley Chung, known for her appearances on "Top Chef," has revealed her battle with stage 4 tongue cancer. In an emotional Instagram post, she shared her health journey, including her decision to keep her tongue despite the higher survival rate offered by surgery. Chung has since completed six weeks of chemotherapy and is seeing improvements in her condition.
Los Angeles, CA - July 31, 2023 - Beloved celebrity chef Shirley Chung, known for her appearance on the popular cooking show "Top Chef," has revealed her battle with stage 4 tongue cancer. In an emotional Instagram post, Chung shared her health journey, providing an update on her condition and the difficult decisions she has faced along the way.
Top Chef" Alum Shirley Chung Battles Stage 4 Tongue Cancer
Chung, 47, first experienced a series of dental issues last December, including a severe tongue bite, a fractured tooth, and an implant. It was not until May that ulcers erupted in her mouth and her oral surgeon discovered a hidden tumor under her tongue. A few days later, she received the devastating diagnosis of stage 4 tongue cancer, with cancer cells spreading to her lymph nodes.
Despite the challenging news, Chung remained calm and focused on getting all the necessary tests and scans to start treatment plans. Her skills as a chef helped her "thrive under pressure" during this difficult time. However, she was also honest about the downfalls, admitting that she broke down in tears when she received a call from her lead oncologist discussing treatment options.
Top Chef" Alum Shirley Chung Battles Stage 4 Tongue Cancer
Chung faced a difficult choice between undergoing surgery to remove her tongue entirely or pursuing an experimental treatment that offered a higher survival rate but involved keeping her tongue. After careful consideration, she chose to keep her tongue, determined to fight against the odds. She praised her husband, Jimmy, for his unconditional support as they weighed out her options.
Since her diagnosis, Chung has undergone six weeks of chemotherapy and is seeing improvements in her condition. Her tumor is shrinking, her speech is improving, and she is able to eat most normal foods again. She is learning to embrace her emotions and accept that it is okay to not be okay, even though she maintains a strong and positive attitude 98% of the time.
Top Chef" Alum Shirley Chung Battles Stage 4 Tongue Cancer
Despite her ongoing treatment, Chung made the difficult decision to close the doors of her Los Angeles-based restaurant, Ms Chi, which she owned with her husband. This decision was made to allow her to focus on her recovery.
Chung expressed her gratitude to her loved ones and fans for their support. She continues to provide updates on her progress through her social media accounts, where she has received an outpouring of love and encouragement.
Top Chef" Alum Shirley Chung Battles Stage 4 Tongue Cancer
Shirley Chung's cancer journey is a testament to her strength, resilience, and fighting spirit. Her story is an inspiration to others facing similar challenges, demonstrating that even in the face of adversity, hope can prevail.
