SINGAPORE- Adrian Toh, a former leading steward with Singapore Airlines (SQ), died on October 23, 2026, at the age of 44 after battling Stage 4 lung cancer for three years. He had worked for the airline for 13 years before resigning in June 2023.
Toh was diagnosed shortly after leaving the airline to pursue a career in real estate. His death prompted tributes from family members, former colleagues and friends in Singapore (SIN), Kuala Lumpur and the Fashion For Cancer community.
Adrian Toh Faced Three Relapses During His Cancer Battle
Toh received his Stage 4 lung cancer diagnosis in June 2023, shortly after leaving Singapore Airlines. At the time, he was preparing to work as a self-employed property agent after spending more than a decade in the aviation industry.
In a September 2023 Facebook post, Toh explained that he had kept a low profile on social media for approximately two and a half months following his diagnosis. He also highlighted that he was a non-smoker who maintained what he described as a healthy lifestyle.
Toh underwent major surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy during his treatment. Although he initially reported promising results after completing chemotherapy, his cancer returned multiple times over the following years.
In an Instagram update on June 26, 2026, Toh revealed that he had experienced three relapses during his three-year battle with the disease. His treatment involved significant medical procedures and repeated courses of therapy.
His experience also highlighted how the illness affected his everyday life. By August 2026, he had reported that the cancer had spread to his brain and spine, affecting his mobility and leaving him reliant on a wheelchair.
Former Singapore Airlines Steward Continued His Fitness Journey
Despite his diagnosis and demanding treatment, Toh continued to focus on fitness and maintaining an active lifestyle whenever his health allowed.
In an interview with AsiaOne in June 2026, he recalled that February 2025 had been his peak fitness level. His continued commitment to exercise reflected his determination to pursue his interests while managing the disease.
Toh also spoke openly about his cancer experience through social media and interviews. By sharing updates about his diagnosis, treatment, and setbacks, he helped bring attention to his personal experience of living with advanced cancer.
His approach centred on continuing to live meaningfully rather than allowing his diagnosis to define his identity. He also expressed his appreciation for the family members and friends who supported him throughout treatment.
Adrian Toh Participated in Fashion For Cancer Charity Show
Beyond his fitness journey, Toh was involved in Fashion For Cancer, a charity runway initiative founded by senior model Ong Bee Yan.
The show provides cancer survivors with a platform to share their experiences and demonstrate their resilience. It also raises funds to support cancer-related causes, giving participants an opportunity to encourage others facing similar challenges.
Toh considered his involvement in the initiative one of his proudest projects of 2026. Despite undergoing major surgery and experiencing mobility challenges, he participated in the Fashion For Cancer show on August 29, 2026, appearing on the runway in a wheelchair.
His participation demonstrated his continued commitment to the cause even as he faced another difficult stage of his illness. The event allowed him to remain involved in an initiative that celebrated the strength and determination of people living with cancer.
Family, Friends and Former Colleagues Pay Tribute
Following news of Toh’s death, friends and social media users shared messages of condolence on his social media accounts. Many paid tribute to his determination, positive outlook and willingness to share his experience with others.
According to Stomp, approximately 40 to 50 family members and friends attended his cremation at Mandai Crematorium. Those present included former Singapore Airlines colleagues, friends from Kuala Lumpur and members of the Fashion For Cancer community.
Toh’s three-year battle with Stage 4 lung cancer brought repeated medical challenges, but he continued to pursue fitness and participate in cancer-awareness activities when his condition permitted.
His involvement in Fashion For Cancer and his openness about his diagnosis formed an important part of his final years, leaving friends and supporters with memories of his resilience and commitment to helping others.
Stay tuned with us. Further, follow us on social media for the latest updates.
Join us on Telegram Group for the Latest Aviation Updates. Subsequently, follow us on Google News
