Kym Le

Nearing the end of my aunt’s radiotherapy treatment, we found these holidays to be a wise time to visit her in Melbourne.

The first time Aunty Hang took off her wig, I was grief-stricken to see her hairless head. In retrospect, I know I have always overlooked the emotional aspect of cancer diagnosis. Thus since seeing my aunt, I have been committed to living a more meaningful life.

My aunt’s husband, Uncle Hau, is very dedicated to gardening (he’s also an alright cook!).

My youngest cousins, Tuan and Nhi, sort of freak me out. They think they’re married.

Cecilia Choir’s camp (which mostly comprised of my extended family) was really enjoyable. Divided into three teams, my favourite activity was the evening performances. Our team’s play was a spinoff of Journey to the West, replete with the opening theme song (promptly downloaded that afternoon). I had to dress up as a spider demoness.

Train travel was free on New Year’s Eve, so the train to Flinders Street was claustrophobically cramped. Of course, Melbourne’s fireworks cannot compare to Sydney’s.

Mum and I stayed for a few extra days because little Tuan was turning four.

And when we returned to Sydney, we were the last ones at the airport.

Regarding my aunt? Throughout my two and a half weeks’ stay, her hair was growing back. She is going to return to part-time work this February.