Terminally ill man torn over accepting public flat after 14-year wait

A 56-year-old single man with stage-four cancer, who has waited 14 years for public housing, is struggling with whether to accept a second allocation offer or decline it to preserve money for his family, triggering intense debate online.

After waiting 14 years on the public rental housing list, he was first offered an 88-square-foot unit in Tin Yan Estate Yan Sui House.

Viewing YouTube walkthroughs, he found the tiny flat unsuitable—especially the extremely small toilet—for his 200+ pound build, joking he might not even fit comfortably.

During a recent follow-up consultation, he asked his doctor about his prognosis and received the sobering estimate that, in the worst case, he has only 4–5 years left.

This news placed him at a major life crossroads ahead of a second allocation opportunity.

He explained that accepting the flat would require spending significant money on basic renovations, appliances, and fittings. If his health deteriorates, it could mean family members frequently travelling to care for him.

On the other hand, declining the offer would allow him to keep that money for family use—whether for enjoyment now or as inheritance—while he continues living with relatives near a hospital, which is convenient for regular medical check-ups.

The post quickly divided netizens into two camps. Those in favor of accepting urged him to embrace the chance, adopt a positive mindset, and live fully in whatever time remains.

They suggested simple, low-cost modifications would suffice, providing him with personal space, independence, and the ability to ease the daily burden on his family.

Opponents took a more pragmatic view. They argued that since he already has family support and a convenient location for treatment, there is little practical benefit in moving.

With limited time left, they said spending tens of thousands—or even over HK$100,000—on renovations and appliances would be wasteful.

Instead, he should prioritize enjoying life with loved ones, leave the money to family, and let the flat go to someone with greater long-term need.