Yuan-Ning and Jean moved to San Diego last June and shortly thereafter, Yuan-Ning was diagnosed with late-state lymphoma. In December, his prognosis looked promising after completing several rounds of chemotherapy, which had eliminated all the enlarged lymph nodes and greatly reduced the size and activity of his large abdominal mass. In January, he received several radiation treatments that ultimately reduced the activity of the large mass to zero. He was on track for a complete response to his cancer treatment. 

Unfortunately, the disease and chemotherapy left Yuan-Ning’s lungs and body weak, and his immune system was severely compromised. Over the past several months, he has admitted to the hospital numerous times for various infections. His will to live was tremendous though and each time he recovered enough to return home in good spirits to recuperate. 

About two weeks ago a small mass was discovered in his brain, which was diagnosed as lymphoma that had progressed after the original treatment. His prognosis was a few months to a year with further treatment.  

This past week was Yuan-Ning’s best since his initial diagnosis last summer. He was eating well and exercising regularly throughout the week. He even put on a little muscle that he was particularly proud of. Despite the prognosis for his brain cancer, he still had a very strong will to live and was looking forward to making the most of his time. The week before he passed away, he spent a lot of time with Steve and Jimmy’s families and his sister-in-law, Linda Chen. Christine’s family put together a surprise photo album that made him so happy and the whole family had a great facetime session with him. He was almost like his old self again. He was laughing, joking and took great joy in having conversations with everyone. 

With each day better than the one before, it came as another complete shock when Yuan-Ning had to be rushed to the ER Sunday morning due to low blood pressure and low blood oxygen levels. He was diagnosed with sepsis and pneumonia. Yuan-Ning’s weakened body couldn’t handle the illness and he worsened to the point where he was on maximal life support and still failing. The medical staff were able to keep Yuan-Ning alive long enough for his entire family to be present at his bedside. Yuan-Ning passed away on Monday, March 24, 2014. He will be deeply missed by all.