'Top Chef' alum Shirley Chung shaves off her head in heartbreaking video amid tongue cancer treatment

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Shirley Chung, a familiar face from 'Top Chef', has revealed a challenging new chapter in her life.

The 47-year-old chef took to Instagram on July 26 to disclose her recent diagnosis of stage 4 tongue cancer. The revelation follows a series of dental complications that initially masked the severity of her condition.

Shirley Chung opens up about stage 4 tongue cancer diagnosis and treatment journey

In her heartfelt post, Chung explained that her cancer was discovered after a series of dental issues, including severe tongue biting and a fractured tooth. “The end of May, ulcers erupted in my mouth and my oral surgeon discovered a hidden tumor under my tongue,” she shared.

“A few days later, I was diagnosed with stage 4 tongue cancer, which had also spread to my lymph nodes.”

Despite the grim diagnosis, Chung maintained a calm demeanor, saying, "I was very calm when doctors delivered the news. As a chef, I’ve always thrived under pressure. I was extremely focused on getting all the tests and scans as fast as possible, so I can start on the treatment plans.”

Chung’s treatment began with consultations with leading oncologist Dr Allen Ho at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center. She faced a difficult choice between a radical surgery involving the removal of her tongue or a more conservative approach combining radiation and chemotherapy.

Currently undergoing extensive chemotherapy, Chung has shared updates about her progress, including shrinking tumors and improved speech. She also addressed her journey of learning to lean on others and embracing vulnerability. 

“I broke down, crying, trying to put thoughts together and ask questions but physically couldn’t, all I heard was ‘option 1, surgery, 100% removal of your tongue,’” she recalled. “[Husband] Jimmy was holding it together for both of us, asking if we have any option that I can keep my tongue and the survival rates.” 

Doctors informed Chung about a "unicorn case" at the University of Chicago where they successfully "cured" a patient using radiation and chemotherapy.

Opting for the latter, Chung expressed hope and determination, saying, “Higher survival rate, or keep my tongue? I chose to keep my tongue, I am a fighter, I am a chef, I can be that unicorn too,” she said.

“I just finished 6 weeks of Chemo (and have many more to go), going to the hospital 4 times a week for injections, it’s like a full time job. My tumor is shrinking, my speech is much better and I can eat most normal food now.” 

“I am learning to lean on others, to let go, to be more vulnerable ….. it took me 2 weeks of contemplating to decide to tell my parents about my cancer, only my close circle of friends and my sister have known until now,” she continued.

“I am learning, I can be strong 98% of the time, it’s ok to be not ok. I have a tough long road to recovery in front of me. Your love and support will carry me through. Cheer me on, Shirley Chung 2.0 will be reborn in 2025!”

Chung's post featured a video and photos of her shaving her head while surrounded by loved ones. She explained that losing her hair during cancer treatments was emotionally difficult, and she found it mentally easier to shave it off herself rather than "pulling it off in the morning."

She quipped, "It's kinda sexy."

Chung’s post has been met with an outpouring of support from fans and fellow chefs. Kardea Brown, host of 'Delicious Miss Brown', praised Chung’s resilience, while Richard Blais and Gregory Gourdet, fellow 'Top Chef' personalities, also offered words of encouragement.

In her response to the support, Chung expressed appreciation for the kind messages and reassured her followers, “I will be the unicorn. I am reading each and every one of your comments, taking everything in. Thank you for sharing your stories with me; we will take on the fight together.”

Tongue cancer is a form of head and neck cancer where abnormal cells begin to grow uncontrollably on the tongue. Symptoms may include persistent spots or lumps on the tongue that don't resolve. Key risk factors include smoking, heavy alcohol consumption, and infection with the human papillomavirus (HPV), according to Cancer Reasearch.

Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC) is the most common type of tongue cancer. It originates in squamous cells, which are flat, skin-like cells lining various parts of the mouth, nose, larynx, and throat.

Shirley Chung’s stage 4 tongue cancer battle draws support from fans

Shirley Chung’s recent announcement of her stage 4 tongue cancer diagnosis has resonated deeply with fans, who are rallying around the 'Top Chef' alum with an outpouring of support and encouragement. 

One supporter wrote, "Sending you so much love and strength. You will kick cancer’s ass like the badass you are!!!"

Another fan wrote, "You are a strong chef. We are all with you."

Many praised Chung’s strength and resilience, with one user commenting, "You are so strong and gorgeous. You have the spirit of a fighter. See you when you kick this thing’s ass! Love you!!"

Another message of support read, "On my, chef! Sending you so much love, positivity, and strength. You are going to kick this cancer’s ass!"

 "Sending you so much love and prayers. You are so strong and will win this battle!" one user expressed.

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