At age 71, Toh’s dedication and resilience during five years of medical school have left an indelible mark on those who have shared his path.
Classmate Dr Ere Clarang, Jr, who was close to Toh, fondly recalled several unforgettable moments in which his dedication and perseverance shone.
“Toh would study twice as hard through a retention study method. It was inspiring to see his commitment, especially during our clerkship.
“During one particularly tough rotation, we had to present cases before resident doctors, who fired rapid questions at us. Toh struggled to answer and apologised. We saw his vulnerability and gave him a big group hug,” Clarang told FMT.
He also recounted the demanding conditions they faced together, particularly when working together in a busy hospital in Bohol, the Philippines.
“Toh was in my sub-group, and it was there that I noticed edema on his legs from standing for too long during our 5am-5pm shifts. We would cover for him so he could rest, but he would still return at 5am the next day,” said Clarang.
Despite these challenges, Toh’s abilities and kindness stood out.
“He was skilled in arterial blood gas and intravenous insertions, and he was always thoughtful, often bringing food to share.
“His enthusiasm when handling newborns and his commitment during endorsements showed he has all the qualities needed to be a great doctor,” said Clarang.
Endorsements refer to the formal handovers of patient care between healthcare professionals during shift changes.
Dr Rica Nasilin, another classmate, shared similar sentiments.
“Toh didn’t make us feel slow; he was more energetic than we were. I told him he could go for an internship, but he said he wants to go on a cruise along the Nile. It seems he’s in vacation mode.”
Nasilin vividly remembers an incident in the hospital’s emergency room, where they were in isolation with a patient who was put on a ventilator.
“Toh noticed the patient had stopped breathing and immediately started performing CPR. He continued for at least 10 cycles until help arrived. It was an incredible feat for someone his age, as it takes a lot of physical strength,” she said.
Nasilin also recalled the time Toh attended to the delivery of a baby girl.
“He proved he could handle the demands of an internship. As he often said: it’s never too late to push for your dreams,” she said.
Toh’s classmates are now urging him to take the next steps by completing his internship and sitting for board examinations. These exams, consisting of multiple-choice questions based on past medical cases, are the final hurdles to becoming a licensed doctor in the Philippines.
When contacted, Toh said he has received much encouragement to continue and become a full-fledged doctor.
“I’m very touched by the support I have received from my peers in college and the doctors,” he said.
Last month, Toh made history by graduating from Southwestern University Phinma in the Philippines.