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For Melissa, running has always been more than a sport. It is a sacred time for self-reflection and finding peace. As an ultra-marathoner, she is used to pushing her limits and testing her endurance, drawing on her strength even in the toughest moments.
But last year, Melissa faced a challenge far beyond any physical endurance test. Her father was diagnosed with end-stage kidney failure and also struggled with dementia, which set her on an emotional marathon unlike any she had run. Despite having run races of 100 kilometres, nothing could have prepared her for the heart-wrenching journey of losing a loved one.
Finding a New Kind of Strength
A former runner himself, Melissa’s father had always been her biggest supporter. He accompanied her on her running adventures and even flew overseas to cheer her on in the Iron Man race in 2009.
When her father entered his final stage of life, Melissa’s resilience was tested in new ways. During those challenging months, she found guidance and comfort through HCA. “The care team addressed all my questions and was very responsive whenever I needed help,” she recalls. “I felt reassured, knowing how to care for my father at home.”
With HCA’s support, Melissa was able to balance her caregiving duties with her passion for running, finding solace in the steady rhythm of her footsteps amid the emotional turmoil.
A Journey of Gratitude and Giving Back
When she heard about HCA’s inaugural charity walkathon last year, she felt a strong urge to participate. Melissa joined the event, not as an ultra-marathoner looking to break records, but as a daughter filled with gratitude. She simply wanted to support the organisation that had been a pillar of strength for her. She rallied 10 friends – none of whom were avid runners – who readily agreed to join her on the walk.
Melissa recalls the event as a pleasant and relaxing experience. Although her father’s dementia made it challenging for her to share the experience with him, she found comfort in walking for his sake and alongside other families on the same journey.
Her father passed on in March this year, and her family continued to receive bereavement support from HCA. Deeply appreciative of HCA’s care and empathy, Melissa is lacing up her shoes once again for this year’s walkathon. Her group of eager friends will once again be joining her in solidarity for the cause.
Join Melissa and Take a Step Towards Compassion
“This walk is not about the personal glory nor money. It is about knowing that I have helped someone,” Melissa shares. “It is just a small gesture for us, but every step we take together will go towards supporting the patients.”
Whether you are a seasoned runner like Melissa or someone who enjoys a leisurely stroll like her friends, your participation matters. Every step, no matter how big or small, fills up the lives of HCA patients and their families in a shared journey of compassion, hope, and support.
Visit https://walkwithme.hca.org.sg/ for more information.
