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The 44-year-old, who was diagnosed with T-cell lymphoma in 2024 and has been receiving care from HCA Hospice since May 2026, recently gathered with family members, close friends and former colleagues for a heartfelt farewell gathering at a chalet.
Rather than a solemn occasion, the gathering was a celebration of a life well lived — one filled with music, laughter and enduring friendships.
Rizal’s farewell gathering embraced a disco theme, complete with sparkling décor, glittering bling and shimmering disco balls that reflected his vibrant personality and love for music.
Known for his love of vinyl records, fashion, DJ mixing and exploring the world, Rizal has always been someone who brought people together. As his illness progressed, he wanted one more opportunity to thank those who had journeyed alongside him and to create one last meaningful memory with them.
Dr Chong Poh Heng, HCA Medical Director, and Resident Physician Dr Foon Xiang Lin visited Mr Rizal during his farewell gathering.
Supported by HCA’s multidisciplinary team, the gathering became a space where loved ones from different stages of his life could reconnect, reminisce and simply enjoy each other’s company. Guests shared stories, laughter and meals together, while music — one of Rizal’s greatest passions — filled the atmosphere.
For Rizal, the gathering was never meant to be about saying goodbye. Instead, it was about expressing gratitude.
Over 30 guests attended Rizal’s farewell gathering, which took place on 17 July 2026.
Addressing his guests, he said, “This was never about me. It’s very hard to get support nowadays, and I’m grateful that throughout my life, I’ve had the chance to meet people from all walks of life and different backgrounds.”
“As a way of giving back, this is my way of showing my appreciation because every one of you inspires me to keep trying and to live longer. I push myself because I live by the memories I’ve shared with people. If our paths have crossed, thank you.”
Reflecting on his cancer journey, Rizal shared how it had changed his perspective on life and relationships.
“Some people may fail you, while others stay by your side. When you’re sick, you see who stays and who doesn’t. Cancer isn’t just about being sick — it’s about going through the full circle of life.”
With heartfelt emotion, he thanked those who had stood by him through the difficult days.
“To everyone who made this event happen — new friends, old friends, those who stayed, those who never gave up or kept reaching out to me — thank you for not giving up on me, even when I gave up on myself.”
His words deeply resonated with those present, many of whom had travelled from different parts of Singapore to be there. Throughout the evening, hugs were exchanged, old memories were revisited, and new ones were created.
For the HCA team, supporting patients extends beyond managing symptoms. It is also about helping them fulfil what matters most in the time they have. Whether it is reconnecting with loved ones, achieving a personal milestone or creating meaningful final memories, these moments can bring comfort not only to patients but also to the families and friends who will carry those memories with them.
Rizal’s farewell gathering was a powerful reminder that while life may be finite, the impact we leave on others can endure far beyond our time together.
As the music played on and conversations lingered into the evening, the gathering became exactly what Rizal had hoped for — not a farewell defined by sadness, but a celebration of friendship, gratitude and the countless lives that had touched one another along the way.
The gathering was filled with laughter, heartfelt conversations and joyful reunions as family and friends created new memories together.
It was, above all, a day filled with love, laughter and lasting memories — a reflection of the life Rizal has lived and the legacy of kindness he continues to leave behind.
