What is wealth without health?

Nina Wang, the richest woman in Asia dies at the age of 69. It was reported in the news media that she is a very frugal lady with regards to spending money despite the billions of dollars that she amass and owns throughout her business empire. It was mentioned in the press that weeks before her death, she was still working hard on business investment deal amounting to hundreds of millions of dollars.

Not sure how true it is, it was also reported that she is so thrifty that she takes porridge and beans occasionally. It was only towards the very last few months or perhaps weeks of her life that she sought treatment in the United States, Singapore and other countries for her terminal illness.

I am reminded of another Hong Kong celebrity and famous actress, the late Anita Mui. It was reported that she was involved in many overseas concert preparations despite knowing her illness.

At times it makes me wonder what’s on the mind these rich and famous people when they realize they have contracted terminal illnesses? We could look at it from the positive aspect that despite their terminal illnesses, they have the guts and never say die altitude to press ahead with whatever goals and plans that they have set. On the other hand, it seems to me that their quest and thirst for wealth has clouded their mind so much so that health is secondary and that money related matters takes center stage. It was reported that Anita refuses repeatedly to heed the doctors advice to undergo surgery that would have probably save her life. Instead she put her effort and focus on overseas concert tours.

Furthermore, I was told that 2 out of 3 of the founders for SCM, a local high tech company has died of cancer during their 50’s age.

Nina Wang and Anita Mui are not the only people who work hard throughout their lifetime to be successful, accumulate wealth but sadly never get to enjoy the fruits of their labor to their ripe old age. Wealth without health is useless and meaningless. It is sad to know that many Singaporeans and locals’ thinks alike with regards to wealth over health.
We don’t mind spending big money on entertaining and luxury items such as cars and properties but not on things that could improve our health.

So the next time while you are busy working to earn your living, do give a thought to maintaining your physical health much as you desire to maintain a good financial health.
What is wealth without health? Be proactive to maintain your health, not reactive for we all know that prevention is better than cure right?