On the morning of 22 September 2026, the famous artist Su Boonliang posted about the day he underwent triple coronary artery bypass surgery a year ago, updating fans on his current health which has fully returned, and sharing good news about his upcoming return to the concert stage as well as other projects.
“22 September 2026, an important day. This year, I woke up at five a.m. at my home in Mae Rim, recalling the morning of 22 September last year when I had an appointment at five a.m. at the hospital. The nurse advised me to shower and wash my hair thoroughly. I still remember her words that after this, I probably wouldn't be able to shower for many days.
I was then wheeled into surgery for a triple coronary artery bypass. If I was lucky to survive, I wouldn't shower again for many days.
(Meaning, if unlucky, I might have to 'shower' sooner—as in a funeral bath. We have to consider the worst-case scenario and prepare mentally.)
Actually, death from surgery is rare nowadays given the skill and technology, but what I feared more than death was surviving in a fragile, incomplete state. At that time, I could only entrust my life to those I trusted and wait for it to pass, then recover anew.
Today marks one year since the surgery. To those who wished me well, I report that my coronary arteries are fine with no issues. My health has returned to normal, though I bear scars on my arms and legs where veins were harvested, and of course, a large scar down the middle of my chest where ribs were cut to create new arteries for my heart. Overall, I am back to being myself—breathing easily and able to exercise.
(The cane I carry is only to steady myself when venturing far from home or on slippery surfaces, not because of weakness.)
The doctor told me about a patient who had successful bypass surgery but died tragically after slipping and hitting his head at home because he wasn’t careful. So I need to be cautious as well.
Regarding my diaphragm, which was previously elevated pressing on my lungs and should have settled within six months, mine has taken longer. As I said, I’m not keen on hearing wishes for a speedy recovery—look at me now, slower than most.
The doctor recommended exercise, swimming, and frequent singing. Though singing tires me more than usual, it helps push the diaphragm back into place. Now, I can speak normally without getting easily tired and have begun singing again (including songs by P'Pom Asanee that require full lung power).
I have hope to stand on stage and perform with the band Clieng once more, aiming for 5 December this year. We plan to hold a sitting concert titled 'Sit and Tell' at M Sphere in downtown Bangkok (I haven’t been there myself yet).
The venue can likely seat around five to six hundred people per show. If we plan something bigger, it will be next year.
I still want to travel and invite others to explore beautiful parts of Thailand. I’m planning the 'Teaw Lamai' trip from 23–25 October, following King Taksin's trail to Chanthaburi. I also want to go to Nakhon Phanom along the Mekong River and organize the 'Dream Scent Trip' to taste coffee on Doi Chang.
I want to teach children to speak fluently and sing joyfully (on 14–15 October in Hat Yai). I still enjoy being a lively speaker, inviting adults to create content (planning to teach in Trang or wherever there is interest around 17 October).
Of course, I want to write books. I’m determined to finish the novel 'Cocoa Cottage' that I’ve been working on, then return to short stories. I also plan to compile various manuscripts I’ve kept into a proper collection (I have at least three or four good ones, maybe five or six total) since I’ve been writing almost daily for years.
This is the life update I can share at the end of this year.
Next year, I expect to launch a book club exclusively for readers to gather, discuss, and exchange ideas.
I’m grateful for the encouragement that allows me to keep moving forward, receiving monthly elderly allowance from the government, enjoying reduced fares on the BTS Skytrain, and free entry to parks and museums.
These benefits motivate me to choose healthy foods and exercise regularly to live a valuable later life, contributing as much as my strength allows. From this major surgery, I’ve realized how fortunate I am to have abundant love surrounding and supporting me.”
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