Better Days

By fillers, to perfections...

2010-07-31T13:52:00.000+08:00

In my practice of Cosmetic Medicine, my favourite would have to be facial augmentation by filler/Botox. Some of the fillers that I use in my clinic includes Restylane, Hyacorp, Juvederm, Esthelis...

For augmentation of the soft tissues, e.g, lip plumbing, improvement of the nasal profile, nasolabial fold, Marionette lines, the fillers of choice would be the pre filled 1 ml Restylane, Esthelis, or Juvederm, while, for cheek and chin augmentation, Hyacorp would be my choice as it comes in 10ml, which needs more fillers.
Otherwise, I don't favour any one over the other..

Give the best and the most expensive filler to an amature, you'll only expect mediocre results. While a good cosmetic doctor would be able to perform a beautiful job irrespective of the brand of the filler being used.

After a long practice, I tend mix my own cocktail of filler for a smoother longer lasting,bloodless, and less swelling.
Of all the procedures that I perform, nothing is more satisfying than face augmentation by filler injections as the result is immediate.

A middle age woman came few months ago seeking treatment for Marionette lines. That are line formed as a result of a droop at the area immediately adjacent to the corner of the mouth.
As you can see, the texture of her skin was dull, and seemed to have loss it's elasticity, as evident by the deep nasolabial lines.
After treatment, I've advised her to drink plenty of fluids. She used to only drink a cup of coffee that last her the whole day.
She changed her habit and took my advice. And five days later, when she walked through my door.

...a total different appearance. Her skin is more radiant and glows. Her nasolabial lines seemed less obvious, and of course, her Marionette lines gets corrected.
Again and again, I can't emphasize the importance of proper and adequate hydration. One need not use regimes of facial treatments just for hydration. Simply drink plenty of water.
The photo was taken with the same camera settings and an environment which is constant.

This middle age lady came for treatment of sunken cheeks that gave her a tired look.
Immediately after the treatment.......

The filler revolumized the sunken area, enhanced her cheeks, which I was careful not to overdo it , as you do not want to look too puffed up as if your cheeks are about to blow up like Anita Sarawak's...

That looked like she might have pumped in at least 2ml of fillers per cheek to have such an unnatural puffed up "everyone knows you've had something done" kind of look.

A skillful doctor is able to make face appears natural and untempered, where someone will appreciate your looks without having a clue that you've got it done.

Fillers aren't being used to correct static lines that appears mostly during middle age.
Today, younger patients are coming for procedures to enhance their features.
Recently I had this lady in his late 20s with good bone structure, however had been regularly had fillers injected to enhance her cheeks as she is and without it, she claimed to appear emaciated. Her previous doctor is a plastic surgeon in a reputable private hospital in Klang Valley.She came with uneven tear trough area with dimpling of the right cheeks due to uneven amount of filler injected.

I was initially hesitant to take up her case as I tried to convince her these little peccadilloes if imperfections is what makes a person perfect.

Due to the unequal amount of filler injected, it caused facial asymmetry as shown by the unequal depth of the nasolabial fold.
In addition to procedures to correct, a little touch to enhance her chin to her already prominent features adds on to the fine feature she possesses.

As you can see, her chin was already beautiful to begin with, but a request for an additional enhancement and reshaping wouldn't be too much.

After the procedure, the cheeks look puffed up, she appears more refreshed. Chin reshaped, face bilaterally equal.

I didn't pumped in too much otherwise it would look pretty obvious she had something done. My rule in practicing cosmetic medicine is , moderation and natural.

Tear trough asymmetry,dimpling of the cheeks are both corrected, and chin enhanced.

It a norm by today's standard to get enhancement as early as late 20s.
Similarly, patients coming for Botox aren't limited only lines removal, but for facial slimming, and enhancement of jawline as well.

Pumped up MP5

2010-07-30T14:46:00.000+08:00

Recently , I bought a MP5, not the real thing, but the BB version. It's not a toy either, considering the damage it potentially causes.

I've always have this fascination with military and weaponry. As expected, I spent plenty of time playing with it. Recently, I've upgraded it by installing a Picatinny rail and a laser reflex sights on it. the sights is the real ones used by the military.

It was fun and all, but after a short while, the sights simply wasn't enough as soon as I discovered there is room for more modification.

Recently bought a 9.11 38" AEG Sniper Hand shoulder bag to house the rifle.
It comes with multiple compartments with Velcro seal.

The 4 handy prolonged compartments is designed to house extra magazines, scopes, goggles, laser sights, etc..

The inner padding thick enough to cushion and absorb any shock while carrying the rifle,especially the ones fitted with delicate scopes or laser sights.

38" inch carrying bag was designed for sniper rifle, but it fits when my MP5 is stored with it's stock fully extended.

Recently, I've changed the motor that generates the air pressure that propels the pellets to add extra power into it... by 40% to be exact.

Bigger motor means more energy needed to run it. Hence, I've changed the battery as well, from 6 AA size to a packed 8 into 1 rechargeable power pack.
So, in what way has the performance of the rifle improved?

Prior to modification, from 10 meters away, it penetrates through this 5mm thick Styrofoam board.
But after modification!!!......

.....from 10 meters away... it effortlessly shoots through this...

Styrofoam of about 15mm thick!!
In addition to that, in full auto mode, it shoots around 600rpm compared to 300-350rpm before mod.
Now, that's definitely ain't a toy anymore, isn't it?

One of the best film ever!...

2010-07-29T15:44:00.001+08:00

Horror, comedy, sitcoms,political, suspense, these are some of the genres of mainstream movies today. Undoubtedly, one of the most heart moving,emotional, and engaging movie that I've watched...intently, has to be 7 Pounds.

It was such an intense and emotional movie, that drove me to paint a Madonna Lilly for my dearest wife. I don't know why, but I guess the story was so moving, and emotionally I was all churned up inside out, something tells me to express my love for my wife as often as possible.

There isn't a single paintings that doesn't say something. Each and every one says something..

You may ask me what is it with the movie that moved me so much. For that, the ONLY method of making one comprehend how it made me feel is by watching the movie themselves, THEN would only would anyone understand what it meant, and how quick and thorough it makes them not only appreciates but to express their love for those who shares their life with.

There are so many things in life that is presented to us so wonderfully, yet we take it for granted.

Beautiful artwork is an expression of a mind and emotion. Only one who is equipped with the right set of emotions and mindset would able to pour out the heartiest expression.
And mine was jump started with this movie.
The initial half of the movie makes no sense. My initial impression on the character "Tim Thomas" played by versatile actor Will Smith, was that of a disturbed man with a lost sense of direction in life.

The movie started with the scene where Tim, seemingly distressed made a 911 call to report on a suicide, on himself.
With an artistic choreography, it then jumped into a scene where Tim was swimming in the sea with his voice narrating," God created the world in seven days, I've shattered mine in 7 seconds"....

I watched this film several times, and each time it never fails to bring out the tears in me. Why do they call this movie "Seven Pounds"? That was a key question that i asked myself initially. After spending some time on the net, I found out it's significance. Originated from William Shakespeare's Merchant of Venice, payment of a debt involved giving a pound of the debtor's flesh to the creditor. Harsh. It's that saying we sometimes encounter about someone demanding a pound of flesh in compensation for something.

In the movie, at the very last scene, it revealed that Tim was involved in an accident that claimed 7 lives, that includes his fiancee. In the bid for redemption, Ben sets out to save and permanently change lives of 7 people.

It started with Tim making a call to a blind meat salesman,Ezra, and intended to harass him by verbally being abusive towards him in order to test his patience, which Tim found it worthy of a "gift" that change his life.

Tim stole the identity of his brother, an IRS employee, in order to have access to personal particulars of individuals. The moment Tim hangs up the phone after the conversation with Ezra, with anger and frustrations, he trashed his house while calling out seven names.

It made no sense to me initially, which to my heartiest emotions, sees the rationale and the plot of the movie in the end.

Every minute of the movie was emotionally gripping. Fast forward to the scene where Tim meets his friend, Dan, a lawyer(I think) where the conversation was suspenseful and made you think Dan owed Tim something, a favour perhaps, which Dan wasn't keen on attending to.

A seemingly distressed Dan who appears to avoid Tim while being contacted to perform, or execute a task requested by Tim.

My initial impression on Tim(who stole his brother's identity, Ben, and IRS employee) was that he was out doing his job, and Dan despite being a close friend wasn't spared in being harassed while performing his duty as an IRS officer.
"Ben" continues with his "duty" in the scene with Dan in the motel room. The conversation suggested everything but the true purpose of conversation that took place. I bet those who watched this movie at this point would probably thought Dan owed "something big" to the IRS and yet to deliver what he had promised Ben.

Definitely one of the heights in the movie.Makes you wonder for a while what the heck was going on then.
The suspense goes on with Tim's visit to the Child's welfare department officer, Holly, where he asked for a name who needs help, which he was then referred to a Latino woman who lives with an abusive boyfriend.

Tim decided to give his beach house to the Latino lady with her two children, on one condition that she mustn't under any circumstances, contact him.
Holly, the officer who seemed to be close to Tim questions his actions and rationale for his intentions, to which he simply answers, "I just wanted to help."
While searching for candidates to be recipients of his acts, he got to know Emily, played by the beautiful Rosario Dawson, who suffers from a heart condition and has a rare blood group. Tim spent more time with Emily during which as expected, developed into a relationship.
Another 2 candidate as recipients of Tim's act of redemption are Hockey coach George, and Nicholas, to which he donated his kidney and bone marrow respectively.

Tim found George deserves of his "gift" for his philanthropic work that goes unnoticed.
Slowly as the story continues, the reason for Tim's actions soon revealed.

Soon after the fatal crash, Tim fell into deep depression, which he felt the only right thing to do was to perform acts of selflessness towards 7 people, in redemption for the 7 lives lost.
In the course of the film, Tim developed a relationship with Emily, which in the act of ultimate sacrifice and selflessness, Tim quietly slipped away to commit suicide as by dipping himself in a bathtub filled with ice and allowing himself to be stung by jellyfish.

It was only after this scene that I understood the conversation that took place earlier on between Dan and Tim, that Dan acted as an executor to make sure Tim's will is in order and being carried out. This was a tear jerking moment in the movie. I know why Dan shed tears when questioned on his reliability to carry out his duty that took place in the motel room.

Towards the end of the movie, the scene where Ben revealed Tim's reason for his actions was simply overwhelming.

No matter how manly you may be, it never fails to bring out the tears in you. It softens and warms the coldest of hearts like a melting butter... ok, bad example,but you understand what i meant, right?

Seven changed lives. 123 minutes of pure golden minutes, 1 heart warming, emotion churning movie.

My personal recommendation is to head towards the nearest DVD store to grab this movie. It touches my soul, and reaffirms my belief that with our given temporary existence in this slowly dying, inevitably ceases to function body, we can do so much... even after our passing, we continue to live.

I know it may be a taboo to many traditional Chinese, but there are thousands of lives who depends on organs to continue living.

What else could be more precious than donating what isn't yours in permanence, to give others the second chance of life, and to continue living after our passing?Think about it.

Immediately, I called up Kuala Lumpur general hospital to reconfirm my status as a organ donor.

Now, this is life worth living......

Like father like daughter.

2010-07-28T15:58:00.000+08:00

There is no denying that for everyone parent, one thing they can always be proud at is the fact their children inherited the talent they have.
For instance, I appreciate life and all it's beauty expressed in the form of arts, poetry, song..

I've always carry around a notebook, no, not a notebook computer, but a real notebook that enables be to pen down my thoughts on the spot, while I'm in the zone, while my thoughts are still fresh.
I've written over 30 poems, and yet, I would never call myself a poet, rather, merely being expressive. Hey, we only live once.
Often times, my poem revolves around life and it's ups and downs.

Most of them are my thoughts and ideas in life, my aspirations, my inspiration, my ideals.

Up till today, there are over 30 poems written, while some selected ones are posted in this blog, some are merely too personal to be publicized.
I must admit, as expected for a person who sees life as a playground, and often plays around, I am rather....emotional.

My anger, my curses, all written and expressed eloquently. Some for one's own interpretation, while some being not too subtle.

Often times, words don't justify what my thoughts, hence, paintings.

One of many of my paintings.

Singing, dancing, drawing, & painting, these are the qualities Isabelle inherited from me.

Isabelle's own painting for my wife's birthday.
Simple, yet beautiful at it's own rights.

Isabelle's latest but unfinished work.
She has no idea how proud she makes me feel.

In the event of my demise....

2010-07-26T18:08:00.000+08:00

In the event of my demise,
when my heart can beat no more
I hope I die for a principle
or a belief that I had lived for
I will die before my time
because I feel the shadow's depth
so much I wanted to accomplish
Before I reached my death
I have come to grips with the possibility
and wiped the last teat from my eyes
I loved all who were positive
In the event of my demise.

Yoo Hoo!! MP5 with modifications!

2010-07-24T17:40:00.000+08:00

I was slightly in distressed when my MP5 stopped working several days ago. Despite changing the batteries, it just doesn't shoot. I sent it for repair, and just got it back yesterday. And boy was I excited or what!

As soon as I received the call that my MP5 was ready, immediately I left for Cineleisure with my wife and little Leonidas as soon as we've had out dinner.
Up till today, I am unsure whether or not this MP5 BB SMG (sub machine gun) is legal, hence I shall not divulge the vicinity which I've got the MP5 from.

As I've tested, it's effective range is up to 25 meters before the pellets start to drop from it's course.

Seemed like I've spoilt the fuse by using Energizer batteries. As the gun was still under warranty, luckily I wasn't charged a single cent for the replacement of a fuse and the ENTIRE MOTOR that shoots the pellet.
One thing I've learned about MP5A5 Marui BB SMG is that the mechanism of shooting is the same as a real MP5, and the material used to make this BB gun is the same as the real thing!

Yoohooo!! My baby's back! Isabelle can play with my remote controlled helicopter and Natalie with my R/C car.I can continue target shooting now. So far, I've never tried shooting is outdoor as it might attract too much attention.

This time, I bought some accessories along, attached a Picananny rail on the top of the gun to mount scopes/sights/infrared/heat seeking scope.

Picananny rails are designed to mount such scopes onto rifles. All modular type rifle system come with in built Picananny rails for mounting scopes, flash lights, laser aims, etc..

Like the scope mounted on the rail attached to the rifle on the chamber.

Notice the Picananny rail I've attached. Now my MP5 is modular. I can attach telescopic sights, scopes, reflex aimpoint, laser aims, flash lights,etc...

The scopes,laser sights, infrared are the actual thing that's being used by the military.

I got myself a holographic laser reflex slights with options of 4 types of sights...

Green cross hair with a dot in the centre.

Circular sights....

Or a simple dot...

..or personal favourite, the cross hair...

Well you have the option to chose between green or red.

Adjusting the sights (zeroing in) is tricky as you would need to mount you SMG on a fixed position that doesn't budge or moves.

Then shoot on a target standing approximately 20 meters away, and adjust the cross hair to the site of impact for zeroing.

There are three different intensity of light that forms the cross hair.

And 4 different targeting sights.

Yoo.... The MP5 with the laser reflex sight is simple awesome.

It simply adds to the ummpphhh to the MP5. So, since I can't shoot it in public, I brought it to my clinic, open up the connecting slide door separating my consultation room to the dispensary, I took as shot, and photographed it with flash.

Notice the pellet???? No??

Now you see??

I was considering to modify the SMG by changing some of it's parts to upgrade it to rechargeable batteries and stronger motors to add on more power. It has proven it's degree of damage capable of inflicting.

I used 0.5 centimeter card board as target placed 10 meters away..

I was astonished with what I saw! This is indeed not a toy when a single pellet punches through the 1/2 centimeter cardboard from 10 meters away.. It is capable of inflicting quite some damage on a human skin.

And yet, I was still considering to add on the power of the SMG...

Soul searching.....

2010-07-21T18:20:00.000+08:00

Being in Indian for 5 1/2 years has exposed me to Indian culture of multitude of practices. From the moment I stepped onto Chennai for my connecting flight, I felt the chaotic, yet pleasantly peaceful, from the congested traffic of the streets of Chennai(Tamil Nadu) to the peaceful, soul soothing greenery of Mangalore, ironically life cannot get anymore peaceful than India.
Despite the constant reported violence, I have never seen such serenity and peace. There was no street violence, no gang fights, no petty thefts, to snatch thieves, despite widespread poverty.
Besides a degree and a handful of experiences, I've brought back some Indian culture which will forever be engrained in my life.
Most importantly is the music. I simply love Indian classical music. Some of the grandmasters in Indian classical music, like Pandit Hariprasad Chaurasia with his Bansuri,an Indian flute, Ustad Zakir Hassein with tabla, Ravi Shankar with Sitar, Pandit Vishwa Mohan Bhatt with his self created musical instrument, a modified guitar to be played in a sliding manner, called Mohan Veena.
One thing leads to another, I became almost possessed listening to their harmonious music that seemed to speak to your senses, almost immediately calms you down. Your senses heightens, yet peaceful. Your heart beats faster, yet calmer.
Those 5 1/2 years are the most peaceful, self soul searching, and exciting times of my life. Despite all the exams, I've never felt so free, like a caged bird being freed to explore the surrounding, likewise, it was a time of soul searching, and self realization for me.
Indian classical music was the medium in which my inner consciousness transcends all material worldly desires, and yearned for something more spiritual, something more satisfying.
The highlights of my 5 1/2 years of studying isn't just the graduation, but the rare once in a lifetime to attend a live performance of Grammy Award winner Pandit Vishwa Mohan Bhatt. His musical style touches your senses like a hand pierced through your chest and grab your heart with a grip.

I was just sitting few meters away from the alleviated stage. Every single minute that passed by was dreamy,felt so unreal to be in the presence of a great, Indian icon in classical music. I was the the only foreigner there, and remembered very well I was accompanied with with a very close friend of mine who plays the tabla. Only a classical music lover/player/student appreciates the significance and beauty of such sense heightening, mind freeing, emotionally charged music.
Soon, I've discovered fusion music. Iconic musician including John McLaughlin instantly became one of my favourite, which a combination of a power packed Indian classical iconic musicians, Ustad Zakir Hussein, and Pandit Hariprasad Chaurasia, Shakti was formed. (Shakti in Sanskrit means power)
2 timeless albums that i bought was a 2 CD live album, and Mind Ecology.

The album cover for John McLaughlin and Shakti's Mind Ecology.

cover of a double CD live performance that never fails to heightens the inner senses, separates your inner self from your physique, which never fails to make me feel like I am in a higher plane, another level of consciousness.

Close your eyes while listening to the fantastic sound as it assails to your senses. You could almost feel the violin talking to you.

Mind Ecology is an album where each and every songs need to be listened with your eyes closed, but your mind wide open, and you'll soon find yourself possessed with the sound of the Bansuri, tabla, violin, Veena, and guitar, your finger dances and head bobbling with the tunes of such rich music that seemed to communicate to you like non others.
To Nick, who is a student currently studying in Manipal, and regular visitor of my blog, if you are reading this, please do not miss out on these beautiful things in life. The moment you leave India for good, you'll never able to experience the wonderful life you have in India.
Mind is filled with contemplation, questions that yearns answer on the significance of our presence in this vastness of space,what role do we play in this cosmic drama.
The once in a lifetime opportunity to visit one of the seven wonders of the world is something which seemed too god to be true, yet the memories of it stayed vivid at the back of my mind.

Please don't tell me you can't recognize this building......

Wine,dine, and everything fine... who??

2010-07-21T15:01:00.000+08:00

Due to my severe migraine, i can't consume alcohol, no matter how minute the amount is. I have zit ideas about wine. If someone were to give me a bottle of wine, I wouldn't whether is it a cheap, or expensive, fine or lousy, good or bad in quality.

Someone got us a bottle of wine. Guess what, I can't even tell whether it's red or white wine.
What am i going to do with this since nobody in my home drinks!?

As I had mentioned earlier, I can't appreciate wine. Let alone trying to pronounce it's brand.

So much for knowledge on wine.

What baffled me was on the front it wrote "produit en france". It doesn't take one to know French eloquently to know what it means, right?

I turned to the back, then it says, "Made in Malaysia"
I looked closely and it says it was bottled by this company.
Logically speaking, the wine is made from France, and the bottle from Malaysia.

I've never fancied wine, nor got drunk before in my life. I simply do not understand why some got addicted to it.
Its such a rarity that I drink, so much so that i could tell you when and where I drank them.
First, my marriage, I had to force myself to sip no matter how much i hate the taste.
Second was my cousin's high profile wedding when the waiter poured red wine into my glass.
Trying not to look idiotic, I took a sip... which was a more idiotic act. Within minutes, I felt the throbbing headache thumbing in my brain.
I sincerely wonder what's so nice about alcohol. Some say people drink to feel happy and uninhibited. Which wasn't in my case.
Remember my previous post on cartoons that's been shown on TV while I was a kid? One of them is Thundercats?
Well, guess what....

I bought the DVD for entire season q and season 2.

I remember with each passing week, I've always looked forward for the next episode that lasts 1/2 hours, during which no matter how hard the Earth shakes, no thunderstorms of lightnings would make me budge.

Boy, oh boy! That's Pantro. A nunchak wielding character.

Another weekend post.

2010-07-20T18:20:00.001+08:00

Natalie is turning 2 this Saturday. Time passed by so fast. I could still remember vividly the moment Natalie was born. The feeling both my wife and I felt the moment we heard Natalie's first cry.
2 year had passed and with this little fella, she certainly made our lives livelier, exciting, and happy. The contrasting behaviour between Natalie and Isabelle seemed evidently with her behaviour. While her older sister is more ladylike and girlish, Natalie's "I want to do it myself" attitude make both my wife and i laugh at her at times. She is always up to something, and there are times where I got fooled by her at times. She simply grew up too fast. It felt not too long ago when we took this photo.

Photo taken on her first birthday.
This little precocious girl never fails to make both my wife and I proud with her ever surprising daily actions.
She seemed to be a fast learner. Having the ability to remember words and pictures upon seeing them only once.
Her enthusiasm and lively character never fails to bring out a smile in me, nor she ever fails to run to the door to greet me whenever I come back from work.
This year, we thought of making her birthday a little special.

Knowing her interest in singing, we thought of getting her a toy musical set from Toy 'R' Us. However, as expected her attention got diverted as soon as she saw these soft toys lying on the floor.

And her elder sister did not help to get her on track. As a matter of fact, she joined in the fun!

"Come on,Natalie. Let's get what we're here for!... She looked at both my wife and I, winked several times... and muttered a ,"OK"...

She started playing with all the toys on display. Pressing buttons, spinning, dialing..Such curiosity cannot be dampened, nor should it be.
I just can't help but to snap a pic of her meddling with the toys on display.

"Ting ting!! Twang!!!! Boink!!!!"
Press!! press!!!

Suddenly, she saw her favourite toy character, (which I hate the most) the hideous looking, overgrown, purple dinosaur, Barney!!!!
Her favourite song is "I love you". And she goes around hugging everybody while singing the song to herself.

I remembered telling my wife how "retarded"Barney looks, and yet, for reason I simply cannot fathom, children love him!

They have an array of different versions of Barney. One with the purple heart sings,"I love you" when it's pressed.
His laugh is so goofy! I know it's unfair of me to say this, but the creator of this dinosaur could have done a better job in designing the looks.....FAR BETTER!
Because of you Barney, I have to put up with listening to Barney each time Natalie eats. By today, she's got an album full of Barney DVDs.

Big sister Isabelle was enjoying herself playing with the toys as well.

Why can't any toy cost only RM9.90 like those He Man figurines back in my days as a child. Today, simple toys, that goes boink, ping ping, ting ting, ring ring... and bears the tag Fischer Price cost at least RM50++!!
It;s not that we can't afford it, but it's simply doesn't make sense!
I am not sure whether for those who is around my age, during childhood there was this eye gluing, adrenaline pumping, ever entertaining cartoon called "M.A.S.K"
(Mobile armoured Strike Kommand), where bikes transforms into helicopter, cars into planes, a truck into a command centre, and the idea of such cartoon back in those days were revolutionary.

And what happened to cartoons like The Centurions, Thundercats,The Visionaries,etc..????

What happened to all these superb timeless cartoons?

I guess toys designer today come out with "brain development orientated" toys.(which I personally thinks it dulls the curious minds of children)

While the kiddies were playing with the toys, my dad was spending quality time with Leonidas.

Leonidas seemed easily entertained. He chuckles each time one of us talks to him. He's a real cutie...

While Isabelle and Natalie took their own sweet time to play each and every toy displayed, even cute little babies has got so much patience..

Sigh... why are Che Che and Yee Cheh taking so long!????

Wait a second! What is that! isn't that the character who's face kept on falling apart???

"OOOOOOSSSOOOMMEEEEOOOOO!!!!!

What's the fun of rearranging a potato face?
Walt Disney has many ways of generating huge amount of revenue, right from cartoons to built up a cultural phenomenon, then with their characters being sold(batteries not included) and puppets and figurines, and books in the form of comics, sticker books, colouring books, etc.. On other word, they are VERY good at getting children to have their parents spending!

But daddy's got to spend on himself too! My own toys! Which i must say the older you get, the choice of toys comes with a hefty price tag. I am not going to divulge what my toys are since this particular blog is constantly being scrutinized.
I got myself a bag last weekend. Looks nice, right?

Lift up the cover which is held on to the bag with velcro, you're able to access the zipper.
What could possibly be the content of the bag?

Ta dah!!! It's a camera bag. Instead of a squarish of a rectangular shaped bag which normally carries a DSLR camera, this is rather flat and looks of a multi purpose, modern looking bag.

The zipper handle with the word Sony carved on it is inconspicuously hidden under the outer layer, so no one knows this is a DSLR bag.
Normally DSLR carriers have got the brand printed in bold where everyone who sees it knows it's a camera bag. Perhaps for this, the only giveaway.... if you can find it...

Lookie...lookie.......

would be the small tag that bears the Sony Alpha symbol.

Once an Alphanatic, always an Alphanatic.

This morning!!!

2010-07-17T13:41:00.000+08:00

Ring........Ring.........Ring...........Ring........ my alarm went off for a while 10 minutes before I woke up temporarily, half awake, or rather conscious, switched off the alarm and went back to bed...

This is daddy....

... little Leonidas already awake and kicking!......

Time passed by... while I will still in La La land....

And yes, I was still sleeping when the alarm went off for the second time. I looked at the clock on the wall......

It's nearly 20 past 9am! I am late for work!

One thing I've noticed about myself is I'd fall asleep within 15 minutes after switching off the lights, despite having the television switched on.

I've been trying for about a week now to watch this movie, "The Book Of Eli" but fails as I would be in La La Land within half and hour after watching this movie, not out of boredom, but rather exhaustion.

Whether is it a sign of aging or what? But I would need at least these to jump start my day!

Are you sure you are telling the truth or out to sabotage?(some photos may be graphical. Viewer's discretion is advised)

2010-07-16T17:55:00.000+08:00

It took me 4 days of writing and then erase my write ups as each time I feel there is so much better ways to convey my message?
To begin this long winded post, let's talk about human psychology. (at this point, I sincerely doubt if anyone is reading this post as it's boring to most) a peculiar feature than makes a man, is self interest. What seemed important to them, they would go all out to get it,but it, hunt for it, study for it, etc.... but to what seem trivial not to mention potentially harmful to them, we will go all the way dispel them off, even against Government. Whether the Government is corrupted or not is another issue altogether.
Now, lets get back to the point here. It's been reported that increasing number of adverse effect leaning towards Gardasil is being reported, and that cases due to Cervarix is gaining.
What the the adverse effect?
Guillen Barre Syndrome,seizure, convulsion,anaphylactic shock, paralysis, chronic fatigue, autoimmune diseases, blood clots, urticarial rashes, shock, pancreatitis, transverse myelitis, and many more.
Now this is the point where each time I erase the whole write up and rewrite them all over again..
There are often times when i actually contemplated to video blog rather than to write it due to it's lenght.
Some goes all out to say that the figures in charts and graph are all made up to create a hype in the need to find a solution for such condition such as cervical cancer.
I've checked with Makna that back in 2006, cervical cancer was ranked 3rd among all mortality due to malignancies. Why would Makna(an NGO) want to do anything as such.Cervarix wasn't even out to the market at 2006.
I sincerely think the our western counterparts have exaggerated this a little bit. For any products that is classified as medical product are obligated to list down the possible side effect, no matter how remote it maybe. Whether it's 100% or 0.00001%,the possible side effect must be listed down.
By now, everyone should know the westerns are well known for their views on personal/liberty rights.They are the first to stand in front of a legislative building with sign boards, shouting slogans on human rights , social injustice,racism,etc..
I am not at all surprised when they decided to go all out against state legislature on making cervical cancer vaccination compulsory for school going children as the public perception on cervical cancer is totally different from Asia Pacific region. Cervical cancer being ranked 15th or 16th in UK and US with mortality of less than 1% obviously would not be seen as national threat!
99% of the reported side effects came from the western world. UK and US in particular. Just because the mortality rate is low due to cervical cancer in their country, it NOT necessarily means it;s not important nor it being any less revolutionary.
As a physician coming from Asia Pacific region where Cervical Cancer has plaque women in our countries for years, the discovery of such vaccine is the closest thing short of a miracle.In my humble opinion, it marks as a milestone in the progress in health and science.Progress has been constant and gradual all these years, but it is incidences as such that marks it;s progress by leaps and bounce. This belong to the same group in terms of significance as the discovery for Polio vaccine, the discovery for Malaria drugs, TB vaccination, and in future, the only thing that is in par with such discovery is the cure for AIDS.
Complications, convulsions, development of Guillen Barre Syndrome, urticarial rashes.. these are not discoveries, but its well documented as possible adverse effect in the leaflets within each and EVERY VACCINES, and not only in cervical cancer vaccines only.
Vaccines don't cause a urticarial rash, convulsions, or Guillen Barre Syndrome. They merely triggers off these already present condition. One don't contract epilepsy. Anything under the sun, stress,heat, fear, pain may triggers off a convulsion, but that doesn't make a person epileptic.

The same goes for Guillen Barre Syndrome, a rare autoimmune disease that normally manifest itself in middle age. If it's not being triggered off by the vaccine, it will triggered off by something, somewhere. If it happened spontaneously, who are you to blame? Bloody Helios?
As I had mentioned earlier, all form of medical products whether it's vaccine, contraception, antibiotics, painkillers, etc... carries a leaflet stating all their possible side effects, no matter how remote it may be.
At least its better than some products that doesn't state them, and if anything were to happen, the consumer were to be blamed or a pat on the shoulder saying sorry, it happened to you.
Just like any medical product, Cervarix carries its leaflet stating all effects, both possible and remotely.

I simply couldn't understand why come party says pain at the side of injection is an "adverse effect". I though when you're poke through with any sharp object, that's the reaction, a normal reaction. Not a side effect.

Some party claimed the possibility of contracting cervical cancer is enhanced with the vaccination! Based on what?? Did these independent body of investigators conduct their own studies or do they simply come out with a number as how is it possible when the vaccine is engineered by producing it's vaccine by means of production of it's plasmids(the protein /capsule that does not contains the viral DNA that cause the actual damage to the body. Yup, you got me right. What makes up the vaccine is nothing but an empty capsid for the body immune system to form an immunity against the actual harmful virus. By that, how is it possible that someone came out with the statistic that the percentage of increased possibility of post vaccination cancer is more than 40%.

The listed adverse reactions are listed in the leaflets, ranging from pain at the site of injection, to numbness, headache, nausea, to urticarial rash. These are listed and known possible side effects, not something new yet to be reported.

Other possible side effects is so rarely seen, that it's categorized under "possible side effects".
The possible complication of urticarial rash is clearly stated in the leaflets. Please don't ever complain that it is a side effect!.
As I've mentioned earlier, these effects aren't only seen in Cervical cancer vaccine, but in all other vaccines and medicines as well.

Take for example hepatitis B vaccine.

The leaflet for Engerix B, Hepatits B vaccine which comes along with each units of vaccines.

Observe the listed undesirable effect which is classified under common, uncommon, and remotely common.

Can't see clearly???

What is written right at the middle of the leaflet? Guillen Barre Syndrome!
But how come I don't see any reports by parents from anywhere who rejects this vaccine? Why no voice of opposition despite the similar percentage of side effect?

There, enlarged. Can you see it now? Why with the discrepancy? Why is it that there was absolutely no opposition nor anyone wrote anything against Hepatitis B vaccine but majority of complaints from the western "developed" countries are taken so seriously, that there are dedicated blogs, organizations formed against Cervical cancer vaccination?
Before I come out with my personal conclusion, let me reaffirm the bias the westerners have on this vaccine.

What about vaccine against Pneumococcal infection. If anyone were so sure that i am affiliated directly or indirectly to GSK, there, Prevenar is NOT FROM GSK.

Now, let's look at the leaflet on Prevenar and it's content.

Let's see now.. oh, see! Seizure! Convulsions! Irritability, Urticarial rash!

Oh, my!!Dyspnea, bronchospasm!!
Anaphylactic shock! Isn't that life threatening?! Of course! In such conditions, if no active and immediate intervention,death is imminent.
But, my... why have I not heard any complaints from anyone?? Despite the warning??? Is it because the risk associated with pneumococcal infection and hepatitis b infection vaccines is "more acceptable"? Is death due to hepatitis B /pneumococcal infection is less "severe" than cervical cancer? Come on.. Which moron would ever come out with such idiotic and moronic conclusion? Yet, ask ourselves, how come no opposition for other vaccines but only on cervical cancer vaccine??
Still not convince on the discrepancy?

The box says inactive hepatitis A and rDNA hepatitis B vaccine, which means they are actually injection the ACTUAL VIRUS, but just being attenuated. Compared to VLP (Virus like particle) which is molecularly engineered, wouldn't live attenuated vaccine which still contains the DNA is more dangerous than VLP which have the structure of the virus but devoid of the DNA? But why no complains on Twinrix???

Check out the possible adverse effect! Anaphylactic shock, paraesthesia, syncopal attacks. Goodness! Doesn't it's risk is in par with cervical cancer vaccine??

YIKES!!! URTICARIA!!!!

Look!Convulsion! Syncopal attacks!

Ooh.. Now that's an eye catcher. Guillen-Barre syndrome! But more! Encephalopathy! That's inflammation of the brain! Isn't that how Bruce Lee died??
My,oh,my. Look at these adverse effects? How?
If everyone were to form opinion based upon individual ideas and experiences, there would be multiple organizations who are against ANY VACCINES! No BCG, No MMR,No Polio, No Hep A & B, No nothing!! The whole TB, measles, mumps, rubella, hepatitis a and B are nothing but man-made diseases simply for :-
a. Population control - which moron came out with idea as such?
b. Monetary gains through sales of vaccines!!! Yeah! That's the most popular rationale.

All these diseases must be part of some worldwide conspiracy. Ideally no doctors exist, and everyone lives till 500 years old!
But wait, not only are these vaccines part of some widespread conspiracy, but antibiotics too!

Ideally there shouldn't be microorganisms like pneumococcal, staphylococcus, streptococcus..

All these are man made, simply created by mankind to cheat mankind!(do you see how dumb that sounds?) Why?..Once you get the infection, there's always the possibility of dying without treatment, and of course all possibilities of dying due to "adverse effect" of these antibiotics too!!

SIDE EFFECTS!!!!???

Anaphylaxis!!!??? Or die from the disease??? Let me think...???

Steven Johnson Syndrome!!!!?????
Now that's life threatening!
If you are wondering how Steven Johnson syndrome looks like and what is it,...
Well, basically it's a exaggerated and life threatening form of skin allergy towards any medication of unknown reason.

(Picture taken from Wikipedia)

ANY MEDICATION MAY LEAD TO STEVEN JOHNSON'S SYNDROME! ANY!!
So, as you are reading this post, how old are you today, and how many times have you visited the doctors, how many times were you prescribed antibiotics? How many times did you ended up being like what these poor individuals had?

Hmm.. What about Augmentin? A high end antibiotic that belonged to Penicillin group of antibiotic.. Since nearly 80% of antibiotic are Penicillin based or structurally similar to penicillin, how safe is it??

Oh,no!!! risk of anaphylaxis, again???

Oh!!! Goodness! Even Augmentin may put you at risk of developing Steven Johnson's Syndrome!!!????!!!
Which one may die in hours or days...... or...

...or die in minute from convulsion!

The point that I am trying to highlight is that any medicine... ANY medicine may have side effects, depending upon individuals.
If the benefits of a medicine far outweighs the "possible" side effects, then reason for consumption is validated. However, if the region where you're living in isn't plagued with disease such as Cervical cancer in Asia Pacific, I sincerely hope your opposition towards this "unnecessary vaccine" or the ingenious theory that cervical cancer is a hoax is expressed with discretion. Just because NHI of UK and FDA of US had devised a more aggressive and comprehensive method in detecting early stages of precancerous lesions, hence intervened early to prevent death, it isn't so in our region.
Have some respect for your fellow man who discovered the pathology and vaccine of this deadly disease.
Publishing books and blogs to discredit such revolutionary vaccines/medicines NEVER HELPS! Unless you've got the disease, I doubt those who are against this vaccine will ever come close to comprehend the significance of such vaccine.

MY painting has arrived!!!

2010-07-16T11:24:00.000+08:00

I was a little excited after work.The moment I walked out from the clinic, before returning home, I went straight to the frame shop to check whether my paintings are done.
When I passed the coupons over to them for collection, my heart was pounding with excitement, hoping it will turn out nice.

I don't mean to brag, but it's been a while since I've painted. I think I'll start painting again to "get away from worldly problems".
There are often times I simply wish to be someone else.
Often times whenever I am seeing a patient, I felt I was the one receiving the healing.
I feel tired of coming back to a not so homely environment house.
The reaction which I was hoping for was at least a smile with a tinge of compliment. But, no. The first thing i was told,"What a waste of money."

Waking in the door these days, was like entering a dark zone. No one asked how was my day, nobody showed any concerned about what happened that particular day that happened?
Instead of being greeted with "hi! How was your day? or wow, that is beautiful," I was instead to that i was again putting money to the waste and that there is no space left in the house..
What the heck. If there ain't nothing good to say, better don't ay anything.

Some songs are everlasting....

2010-07-12T17:00:00.001+08:00

The first time I've heard of any of Beatles's song was back in 1994 while studying in Taylor's College. I can't help but to overheard my housemate, who is a Beatlemaniac kept on playing Beatles over and over again. Initially, I didn't occur to me how great the Beatles was until I started listen intently to their lyrics.
I changed the way I listen to songs since. I don't just hear the music, I listened and feel the tune and the message it conveys. The tune is tantalizing to the heart, and emotionally churning, as I listen to their music, my heart slows down, my fingers danced. I closed my eyes, and listened to Paul McCartney or John Lennon serenades. The is something different about the music from the Beatles, especially the ones written in the 50s and 60s. But when the psychedelic age arose in the 70s, their music which blends classical Indian instruments simply spoiled it.
For those who had listen to songs like "Till there was you",I would be 110% sure you'll agree with me if I were to say that their music transcends the test of time. Old timers, who fell in love listening to this song would still dance when Sir Paul McCartney sings it today.

And just look at some of the middle aged couples react when Paul sings the song today.
Click here to be directed to the video as I am not able to embed the code.
Please allow me to share some of the good things (which it is to me, at least) some of the "good" songs from Beatles.

I sincerely hoped you've had enjoyed all these songs. Good things are meant to be shared, so here I am. To those who found themselves to have closed their eyes while listening to the tune as it assails to your senses, you know you are listening to good music...

My boring weekend post...

2010-07-12T16:09:00.000+08:00

Contrary to the title of the topic, I had a wonderful weekend. It was Saturday night when we decided to loiter around the latest Tesco in Kepong area.

To be frank, we were more impressed with the shops that surrounds the proper Tesco, than Tesco itself. Nothing different. Slightly larger, more impressive exhibition of LCD and LED screen TV which I am helping my parents to survey as they are planning to purchase one. My saliva was dripping on the floor when I saw the first 3D LED slim screen 50inch wide screen Samsung TV.
The only thing I can say about the quality of the picture is nothing less than what we characterized a well valued diamond, clarity, crisp, cut, colour..and course no carat.
It's so clear, that I neglected Natalie's repeated pleas to continue moving!!!

What did I purchase that night? I stopped by a music store and bought myself a guitar tuner. I self taught myself classical nylon stringed guitar and the range of musical pieces that i play is only limited to Eric Clapton's masterpiece,"Tears in Heaven" written in memory of his 4 year old son who fell down from a Manhattan building. The lyrics was beautiful and personal. I came to know that Eric Clapton stopped playing the song since 2004, as he claimed he had moved on.
The new Tesco is overcrowded, too overcrowded for anyone to enjoy despite the clean, children friendly, fresh looking premises. The smell of fresh cement still emanates which you'll immediately smell the moment you step out from your vehicle.
That night I slept with one eye open, overexcited with tomorrow's program. We'll be meeting Uncle Tony and Uncle David tomorrow in KLCC before leave home back to UK. Uncle David was in the Reserve British Army and a member of Royal British Army. He owns a gun range in UK, and he make his own rounds. (by that i means bullet) in all caliber. (all these while I came to know that only sniper make their own rounds), which uncle David have got hundreds of not thousands of books on guns, snipers, warfare, weaponry, engineering, bullets,etc..
I was looking forward to this weekend as we're planning to sit down, and discuss about these over coffee/tea.

What did I ordered? I Venti size Iced lemon tea, Venti size chocolate chips and cream and..... a triple shot espresso.
The lady manning the counter machine looked a little shocked, and reconfirmed my order," Triple espresso??" Yes!
I wonder why is there such a surprise look on their faces. Europeans drinks espresso nearly on a regular basis to kickstart their day. It does for me, the bitter, the better!
We sat at Starbucks and talked for hours on guns, ammunition, weaponry, the kinetics of trajectories, etc..

As we got so engrossed with our discussion, we didn't realized how fast time had passed. It has been 4 1/2 hours since we started our discussion, and after 2 cups of triple espresso, 2 Venti size Ice lemon tea, 1 Venti size chocolate chips with creams, and 1 venti size chai latte.
it's only after 2 phone calls from my mother in law telling us we're heading for dinner that stopped our otherwise non ending discussion.
And since we're in KLCC, we thought of taking these visitors from UK for some local delicacy.
What else is represents local food better than "Mamak food?"

My cousin decided to bring us to a relatively well known(relative as I've never heard of this place) mamak place, called "Pelita Nasi Kandar".
The first thing that caught my attention was the patrons who eats here drives luxurious cars. Benz, BMWs, Hondas..
The premises is strictly for customer parking only, otherwise, RM10 per entry!

My first impression on the place wasn't that great, besides the not so fantastic service provided, with the waiters wearing "Songkok" made in colours found on our national flag, walking from person to person asking,"Apa ni???" with his pen towards a curry fish head!...
" Kari kepala ikan,lah!!" "Ini teh ais,kah?" pointing with a puzzled looking face.Hello, how long have you been working here!???

I know, Leonidas... I know... Even you're annoyed!
I am happy little Leo didn't screamed despite the noisy and heat of the stall!!
I know Leo, these waiters are "zimbly!...." asking questions despite knowing the drink we drank. Who can't tell the difference between the colour of "Teh ais"and "kopi ais"???

Here is my overpriced Teh ais? Over priced? Absolutely, but by how much? I dare not find out!
As a matter of fact, I just simply had to take the photo of this "Teh Ais",anticipating it the most expensive one I've ever drank.

One by one, the dishes were served. The rice were served individually. Wasn't much / or rather adequate by any standard I must add..

There were about 12 of us. That Englishman is uncle David, a walking talking encyclopedia when comes to weaponry, ballistics, bullets, armory, and engineering.

The very hungry Natalie waiting for someone to feed her!
I was right about the amount.. the bill came out to a freaking RM500++
!!!!
My cousin, though being wealthy, refused to pay until he is shown the amount listed one by one!
The disgruntled waiter brought the bill and we calculated ourselves, which amounted to over RM300++. Still overpriced (obscenely overpriced I might add) but it's a far cry from RM500++.. Just because we arrived in a Mercedes E55 AMG doesn't mean you charge with exuberant, obscenely, jaw dropping price for a meal that easily had cost less than RM100!
And the waiter had the audacity to show us the bill is a disgruntled face!
Am I right,Leo??

Art... my life........

2010-07-09T18:47:00.000+08:00

I've always love arts. Be it photography, paintings,poetry, music, movie(yes, it's not a mere entertainment) My camera by now is like an extension of my body. I can go out without my handphone, but not without my camera.
I love poetry, ironically thanks to the late Tupac Shakur. Yes, you heard me right. The rapper who was shot dead on Sunset Boulevard, Las Vegas where the circumstances of his death is shrouded with questions and mysteries.

I can safely assume that for those who doesn't know who Tupac is, he wasn't just a "rapper".I think he is the most gifted rapper of all time. Which rapper writes and performs for the sake of racism, social injustice, artistic purposes, instead of purely for fame and money?
In this book that reproduce his write ups and poems, it revealed another side of this outwardly hardcore hard hitting foul mouth "African American".
I was moved and got so engrossed with his poetry than i actually interpreted what he wrote with my own point of view of what he tries to convey.

This book started off with the first page with it's title," The Rose that grew from the Concrete."
What does it mean????
Good that you ask. This piece of masterpiece if filled with writings expressing his feelings towards childhood, growing up in the "Projects/Bronx", how he dealt with a mother who held an authoritarian position in the Black Panther movement, his passion for art, music, his zest for life.. It's amazing how much you'll know a person simply by reading their compositions and their writings.

Take for example the first and most prolific poem of his, "The Rose That Grew from the Concrete."

"Did u hear about the rose that grew from a crack in the concrete?
Proving nature's laws wrong it learned 2 walk without having feet
Funny it seems but by keeping its dreams
It learned 2 breathe fresh air,
Long live the rose that grew from concrete when no one else cared!"

Imagine writing this piece at the age of 18. One needs to go through life of hardship and struggle in order to come one with something as genuine as this.

It gets better from there. I could almost feel what Tupac felt when he wrote this...
Sometimes I cry
Sometimes when I'm alone
I cry because I'm on my own,
The tears I cry R bitter and warm,
They flow with life but take no form
I cry because my heart is torn
and I find it difficult 2 carry on
If i had an ear 2 confide in
I would cry among my treasured friends,
But who do U know that stops that long to help another carry on?
The world moves fast and it would rather pass u by
than 2 stop and c what makes u cry
It's painful and sad and sometimes I cry
and no one cares about why.....

There is this beautiful composition of Tupac's that happens to be my personal favourite. It's called Thug's Mansion. Listen carefully to the lyrics.

Do you merely call that a rap song??? Much more! In a single composition, he expressed his life, his hopes and aspirations, his struggles, etc.

Under the Skies Above- after the miscarriage
My child is out there somewhere
under the skies above,
waiting anxiously 4 you and me
2 bless it with our love
A part of me a part of u
and a part of this love we share
Will protect my unborn child
who lives dormant out there somewhere
Sometimes in my dreams
I imagine what it would be like
How could I properly guide him
when even I don't know what's right
Whether he is born in wealth or poverty
there will be no deficiency in love
I welcome this gift of life
given from GOD under the skies above.

His poetry aren't simply expression of art, but his life. Often times his poems reflects upon the happenings during his growing years, his encounter with social and racial injustice, how politicians do nothing to alleviate the social ills,etc..
We only live once. Whether or not you believe in reincarnation is irrelevant. I've seen enough death in my career to know we ought to do everything we can, call up the people we love and tell them we care and willing to share with them.
At this point of life being a doctor, though in a way a scientist, I've got the opportunity to see the philosophy of life along with science.
I've learned to be more passionate about life. I've learned to write to my parents despite all those previous fights. 3 years ago, I suddenly developed a life threatening convulsion during Chinese New Year. Right after that, I wrote a poem which i've never read to them.

"Among the three of us
I was the one that breaks your heart
so frequently, whether consciously or subconsciously
As i sat back and reminisce the angst I've put you through

I've seen death, and i seen the dying
but nothing breaks my heart when i saw you crying
ma, you mean everything to me
I'll make you proud one day, you'll see

Pa, you have been the source of inspiration when I needed it
though we haven't spoke much over the years, but there is much spoken in the silence between us
I have imagined life without both of you, i'll cry till tears of blood streams down my cheeks
I have everything today because of what you're sacrificed in your days
I am honoured to carry on the name of family
I am honoured to carry the burdens of the family

I remember when i was young i use to kiss dad and mum goodnight
but as i grew up, for no reason, i grew apart from you dad
Though i still love you from the bottom of my heart
Do you remember you called me up all the way to India when i went astrayed
I lost my way due to unbearable pain someone has caused
but your gentle word which i miss all these years were magical to my ears
through thousand of miles you convey your love and hope to me,
giving me strength to live life standing on my own two feet again
And during Chinese New Year I was admitted to the Emergency ward
I caught a glimpse of my mum covering her face with tears streaming between her digits
I vowed never ever to cause such worries to mother again.

I love you dad and ma
You meant the world to me
everyone morning seeing your laughter meant a word to me
I guess I need to appreciate life more than to continuing to err for a living."

I've done a lot of things in life, often beyond rationale and comprehension from my parents and wife. Life a tattoo that I've yearned for over 14 years...

A tattoo that I wore for spiritual reasons and never once have i shown this to the public.
If it's spiritual, why not just keep it inside? Why should I get myself inked for this?
If such question pops in your head, you probably belong to one of those who don't try to understand my undying desire for this tattoo for the past 14 years. I've held back over the years for fear of parent's reaction. But again, I told myself, this isn't a sign of gangsterism, nor for artistic purposes. I was a vegetarian for 8 years, and I remember the reason for being one. It;s valid, sincere, and genuine, hence I did not develop any self conflicting meat eating desire during those period. Cold turkey, once omnivorous bordering carnivorous, simply turned pure vegetarian.
I am fortunate enough to be blessed with a wife who understands my needs and sees beyond my shortcomings. A rose for life for her.

A real rose doesn't last. But a thought, the effort, and drawing of one does.So I painted her a rose for life for this year's birthday gift.

Since we're come to the topic of painting, I've decided to paint something and place it in my clinic.

Now that I've completed the painting, I am considering whether is it wise to hang it up in the clinic.. Might give the wrong impression though...

I am not contented with my work...

2010-07-08T19:03:00.000+08:00

Each time whenever I tell someone I' m a cosmetic physician, they will almost always respond," ohh.. you must be happy and loaded, and seeing beautiful women everyday!!!"
I would often smirk and sigh..The truth is, I am not happy at all with my work. Call me a lousy businessman, or a lousy cosmetic doctor if you wish to. But I often turn patient away, convincing them that they need not such expensive jabs just to get ride of 1-2 fine lines that does not reduce her overall appearance. It's against my conscience to perform procedures which I sincerely do not see any fault is it. Some individuals are so self conscious, that it simply doesn't make sense paying hundreds if not thousands for a few simple jabs, to my opinion simply to satisfy their insatiable psychological insecurities rather than the actual anatomical deficit. All of us grow old. Unless if you have actually found the found the fountain of youth, otherwise, growing old and haggard is the inevitable.
I simple can't stand when some women come from great distances simple to treat their pigmentation which is hardly noticeable.
It is those little peccadilloes of imperfections that makes a person perfect. I felt unfortunate for them actually. If that's not enough, I sometimes wonder whether do I give them the impression that I am a person whom you can bargain with after a procedure's being done. I am unhappy most of the time these woman walk out from my clinic. Why am I doing this to myself???
I reflect upon life, and the patients that I attend to on a weekly basis in Tzu Chi clinic in Jalan Pudu are the actual people who does the healing for me..
Last week, I saw this patient with filiriasis.

This.... is reality, my friends!!!

Is that Chicken egg? or...???

2010-07-08T18:46:00.000+08:00

My parents came back from Tanjung Sepat today and showed me something eerily interesting...
Eggs that are laid by specially bred chicken using a cocktail of "God know what's in it"
The moment I saw the size of the egg, I was like, "God******!!!!
It this chicken egg??? Sure it's chicken from earth? Looked a little smaller than an ostrich's egg. To illustrate the size, I place a 20cent coin next to it...Still don't get the picture???

There! Now I've placed a normal size egg next to it. Can you see the difference now??
My parents claimed each of these have got at least 2 egg yolks in it! Yikes! Ain't no way I', going to eat it!
It looked so unearthly!!!

Damnn!!! It's huge! Imagine the size of the chicken that laid these eggs.

"Hey, buddy! Did you get those eggs from the over sized nest???"
I'll freak out when any of these 6 footer chickenshit appears!!!

to Mr/Mrs/Ms De

2010-07-06T23:25:00.001+08:00

I posted your comments which I felt it's a debate for public and for your good self to witness. Unfortunately, somehow, you're the second person who's comment failed to appear on the blog when I press "post".
I respect your point of view, and I will not even try to attempt to convince your belief on what these "cervical cancer vaccine does" and on your statement about the vaccine kills more than the disease itself.
However, I am unsure on the source which you're derived from that draw such conclusion, but from personal experience, it's been in our statistics for years before the launch of the vaccine that shows that cervical cancer is ranked second among cancers that inflicts women in Asia Pacific. I sincerely
respect your opinion about such vaccine which you think does more harm than good, since in the western countries such as US and UK, where the public screening program is so good and well funded, and the level of health conscious among women is in your country is nothing less than exemplary for women in our region to follow.
It's due to the thorough health conscious individuals in developing countries such as yours would be the main reason for the low mortality rate in due to cervical cancer. (US mortality rate is only 4% compared to Malaysia which is 60%)and perhaps cervical cancer being relatively non life threatening in your country, hence ranked 15th among all cancers. That would be one of the reason why most public outcry and voices against national vaccination program has is "more" from your country.
But the scenario is totally different in Asia Pacific. Hence strong opposition from you against my blog in advocating cervical cancer vaccination is not perceived negatively, but instead I felt the sincere need to explain to you the rationale for me to be such an advocate for cervical cancer vaccination.
I hope you would understand my rationale for being so vocal in creating awareness concerning cervical cancer among the public, not limited only to Malaysians but to countries within our region.
I sincerely hope this post is not perceived as a personal attack but rather, a dialogue.

Some interesting bloggers....

2010-07-05T17:21:00.000+08:00

I've been wondering what is the essence that makes a person a celebrity blogger? I wonder did they start with an unlimited size in their bank account, or were they being sponsored? Some bloggers simply have the umpphhh in their post, an unseen factor that result in regular revisits from readers.
Some who goes to extents to develop an "unusual" behaviour just to stand out from the crowd.
Some may pretend to be "Divas" with "laser mouth" that shoots downs comments directed towards them, some "camwhores", you know those who are narcissist, who shamelessly snaps multiple pictures of themselves in different poses, one with with eye shut, one with pouting lips, one with finger in the nose..opss.. I mean in the mouth, some with "cute cute" frown on their faces, while some with actually think themselves are models!!!
Whatever it is, they make the blogsphere interesting. They are the reason for us to switch on our computer and key in their URL to check out what they've been doing. Basically their post makes interesting reads during breakfast.
While some of us who blogs purely as a way to express ourselves, there are some who blogs with finesse, with so much arts and philosophy within their content. Their write up are indeed mind churning, thought provoking, and simply intellectually stimulating. Eg. The Gentle Snail or Kok Blok. They seemed to have the gift of self expression, gifted orators, or writers. Their command in language and level of awareness surrounding them goes to show their very unique way of viewing life.
I would like to view them as modern day sophist.
Half of the blogs I read are owned by, to my opinion, professional photographers. I never joke around whenever I tell them their talent in photography is in par with those of National Geographic Magazine. Bloggers like AhMike, Kiumo,Gabriel Lai, and of course an all rounder, medical director of a leading multinational company, and a professional photographer, Dr Adelina.
Most bloggers are self categorized into their very own genres. We have photographers, vehicle extraordinaire,JLean, and of course my very vocal, and politically conscious, analytically gifted writer friend whom I've had the pleasure of growing up with through primary and secondary school, Chee Yong.
What about me?

What genre would I categorize myself in? Well, probably the "Rojak" category, since it has personal, medical, photographer, philosophy, music, art, and to certain extent, a very sensitive religious issues.(which a "friend" whom I've got to know since 12 year old decided to severe all ties or stay communicated simply because I have a different view on a few religious issue. Sometimes I feel people simply don't tolerate difference in opinion when comes to religious issues, not only wouldn't they don't accept that other religions exist, but goes to condemn others. I feel really sorry for these people.
While www.hippocrates1976.com is a blog for me to express my thoughts, I dedicated another blog to create awareness in Cervical Cancer at www.cervarix.blogspot.com.

I most people in our country do not see the degree of the problem, nor aware how dangerous this deadly disease it, I've decided to let the public to have access to facts concerning cervical cancer, and it's preventive measure.
It's most disheartening when we have doctors who not only aren't well versed with this disease, but recommends the vaccine to their patients based upon the wrong facts.
Mind you, I do not get any remunerations of payment from GSK( the manufacturer of this particular medical product), but the discovery of a vaccine that prevents the number 2 killer in our region among women marks a fast forward, progress by leaps and bounds in the gradual and slow process in scientific breakthroughs. I don't know about the other doctors, but I personally felt the only medical advance that perhaps would be in par with the discovery of cervical vaccine would be the cure for AIDS. 500,000 new cases of cervical cancer is discovered annually, and 270,000 death per year due to this, which means there are 4 deaths due to cervical cancer with each passing minute.
I am not an intellectual, nor a great doctor, but I am passionate about this. All the contents and post in the blog were written out of my own initiatives, without any influence from GSK directly or indirectly.
Unfortunately, there are those who shoots my effort down, claimed that I am doing advertising for GSK for the sake of monetary gains.

Click here for his blog. Not only did he broke the copyright law by taking photos from my blog discredit me without my permission, he goes all the way to name my name in his blog!
Well, Mr. Bob Fiddaman, please get your facts write before making yourself looking like a fool for the whole world to witness. Opss, i think you have done that already.

He knew very well i had broken the copyright laws, but I guess this guy is pushing his luck. Hah, not only have I not reached the status of being a popular blogger in the local blogsphere, but I've been accused of "astroturfing", or whatever that means.
Just because you have some grudges against GSK's product, you NEED NOT write about me.

Something for me to drool upon!

2010-07-03T15:34:00.001+08:00

Music,fast cars, video games, hi-fi systems.These are some of the worldly pleasures that I dream of all the time. While driving Isabelle to Pizza Hut,Taman Tun, I saw this beauty! Black, sexy, curvy beauty that makes most of us drool.

A Bentley! In Malaysia! Wow! That's like sporting an Enzo Ferrari!

Now, this puppy stands out among the rest. It stood within the class of its own. Drool!!

You know what I am about say, right?

2010-07-03T14:00:00.000+08:00

IDIOT!

Life Lost...

2010-07-03T12:50:00.001+08:00

For those who has been reading my blog should know by now that one of my greatest love is music, and I had written several articles about it, on how I evolved from hearing to the tune to studying the lyrics, and feeling the music right to its very core.
Without doubt, U2 has been the most philosophical musical group of our time. Formed since 1976, (the year I was born) in Dublin, Ireland, won over 22 Grammy Awards to date, their music transcends all racial, religion, and national boundaries. Being a philanthropist,and it's thorough understanding of the Holy Bible, to which you'll see plenty of verses from the Holy Bible in their lyrics, is something that I listen to, with my eyes closed, contemplating on it's lyrics, the thumbing of Larry Mullen Jr.'s percussion pounding into my ears in synchrony with the beating of my heart, without realizing it, my head bobbles, my fingers dances with the tunes, with every message Bono conveys assails right into the my conscience.
I was contemplating hard whether or not to post this particular write up, as it's rather personal.

This book is akin to the Holy bible. Unless if you've read this book, you will never understand the philosophy involved in the writings of each songs of U2's.
Several weeks ago, I received this SMS...

Noah is HIV positive with CD4 counts that borderlines from being AIDS. After talking to him, you'll be surprised with his intellect, his degree of general knowledge is totally unparalleled. He's a Chinese guy who had spent 15 years abroad in Europe, married to a Swiss who is now a monk under the New Kadampa sect. I got to know him from a Christian group who takes care of heroin addicts.

My heart skipped a beat when I received this message. I knew he has been facing difficulties looking for a job considering his background. But receiving this text, I simply didn't know how to react. This was about 2-3 weeks ago. I have no way of contacting him today.
As I listened to U2's Bad, it reminded me of him.

Tears flow down my cheeks as Bono deliver his message through this lyrics.
If you twist and turn away
If you tear yourself in two again
If I could, yes I would
If I could, I would
Let it go
Surrender
Dislocate
If I could throw this
Lifeless lifeline to the wind
Leave this heart of clay
See you break, break away
Into the night
Through the rain
Into the half-light
Through the flame

If I could through myself
Set your spirit free
I'd lead your heart away
See you break, break away
Into the light
And to the day

Oooh oooh, oooh oooh, oooh oooh oooh...

To let it go! And so fade away
To let it go!
And so fade away
I'm wide awake
I'm wide awake
Wide awake
I'm not sleeping, oh no, no, no

If you should ask then maybe they'd
Tell you what I would say
True colors fly in blue and black
Blue silken sky and burning flag
Colors crash, collide in blood shot eyes

Oooh oooh, oooh oooh, oooh oooh oooh...

If I could, you know I would
If I could, I would
Let it go

This desparation
Dislocation
Separation
Condemnation
Revelation
In temptation
Isolation
Desolation
Isolation

Let it go
And so fade away
To let it go, oh yeah
And so fade away
To let it go, oh No
And so fade away
I'm wide awake
I'm wide awake
Wide awake
I'm not sleeping oh no no

Anyone who listens to this song carefully might able to interpret what Bono tries to convey.

Its about the self destructive nature of heroin addicts, while the rich and upper class just looks at them and does nothing to help. My sincere prayers to you wherever you are,Noah. I sincerely feel rather helpless since he is HIV positive, and not being accepted by his own parents.

NIce Car!

2010-07-02T23:24:00.001+08:00

One thing that I admire about Malaysian youth today is their uncanny ability to own a "Supercar" even though financially incapable to get themselves a proper sports car. Yes, they do it through engine modification by installing imported Turbo engine sports car into their original factory manufactured road model.
I know the depth of one's knowledge on engines in order to achieve a well balanced super powered engine. No, it doesn't simply go to a workshop or rather a "chopshop", switch with exhaust system, change the power plugs, or simply install a speedometer. It involves a thorough know how of the mechanics of an turbocharger, it's much needed intercooler considering our weather which simply don't suite a proper self modified turbocharged car. What you often see are modified cars parked by the roadside in a middle of a jam to prevent overheating due to overheating as a result of underpowered intercooler.
Nowadays, kids are intelligent. They study the science of car modifications, engine specifications,etc... like this MYVI parked outside the local minimarket at my living area.

Not only was the car turbocharged, but the rims changed, the artwork of the car turned this timid factory manufactured MYVI into beast with beauty....but,

unfortunately the owner of this beauty has got no common sense. Just look at the way he parked his car.
I concur with the saying, "Common sense isn't very common"...

Guess what is it?

2010-07-02T13:02:00.000+08:00

Product from Germany since the 1960s. Used by most Special Forces around the world.

OI!!Why is the public so drawn to my clinic's toilet???

2010-07-02T10:28:00.000+08:00

It happened for the 5th time yesterday. I can't see for sure the approximate age the guy is, but normally the entrance of into my clinic has a magnetic security lock. So, there was this man who spoke to my staff nurse for a while, thinking that he might be a patient and all that. But what I saw on the CCTV screen made me think, what the heck is this guy doing? He came in, I didn't have the time photograph him. But this guy spent an entire 15 minutes in the toilet laying eggs!

I only managed to photographed him while walking out!

What gave this guy the impression this is a loo?

Does the blue sign board says "Toilet"???

There is no sign stated on the glass panel stating."welcome to pee"!!!...