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The end-of-life journey encompasses a complex tapestry of emotions that words often fail to fully convey. When language falls short, emojis offer a universal way of expressing the sentiments that can be challenging to articulate. In this first part, our staff, volunteer and patient share their stories through the simple yet powerful language of emojis. From comforting moments of care to touching connections, here’s a glimpse into the warmth and fulfilment that HCA adds to the end-of-life journey.
“I want to give patients love, and I also feel the love from them.”
Priya Revi, Day Hospice Assistant, Oasis@Outram
Priya has cared for many patients but she remembers each of their unique preferences by heart. “Coffee, less sweet, and no beansprouts,” she recalls the exact likes of a patient with whom she shares a deep bond. “She even blows me kisses before going home!” she beams as she recounts their tender farewells.
Beyond personalised care, Priya enriches the centre’s diverse offerings with a vibrant array of cultural activities. From laughing yoga to creating traditional rangoli during Deepavali, she finds joy in seeing patients embrace new experiences.
Priya’s caring nature extends to culinary delights as well. Each month, she treats patients to specially-cooked Indian fare, and often shares her cooking in celebration of her wedding anniversary and family members’ birthdays.
Even after two years at HCA, Priya remains impressed by the centre’s five-star ambiance. Yet, it is her unwavering compassion and personal touch that truly makes the place outstanding to the patients.
Dressed in traditional garb, Priya adds festive joy at the centre with activities like rangoli art
“Because it represents the Life, Hope and Warmth that HCA offers”
Herman Teo Feng Yuan, Volunteer
Herman approaches volunteering with a heartfelt wish – that patients will see him as their last friend in their final journey.
Since he began volunteering in 2021, Herman has forged deep connections with many patients, bringing warmth and companionship to their often daunting end-of-life journey. His kind-hearted and affable nature transforms each visit into a cherished experience for patients, who eagerly anticipate catching up with him. The sparkle in their eyes upon seeing Herman reveals how profoundly he has touched their lives.
Besides giving his time, Herman also rallied his friends to make a generous donation which enables patients and their families to create memories beyond the confines of their homes or our day hospices. Thanks to this collective effort, a late patient was able to share precious moments with his daughter at Bird Paradise and Gardens by the Bay before his passing.
Herman (left) with a patient and caregiver at Bird Paradise, one of the outings that he sponsored alongside friends
“At HCA, I got to try new things and discover my new interest in art.”
Mr U, Oasis@Outram patient
Mr U joined Oasis@Outram five months ago, and his experience has been nothing short of uplifting. The day hospice enriches his weekdays with a vibrant array of activities such as art, baking, and games, with nagomi art as his favourite. It offers a canvas for his creativity to flourish, a contrast to the days when he worked as a repairman and had little room for personal expression.
Reflecting on his time at Oasis@Outram, Mr U shared, “If I didn’t have the chance to try new things here, I would just be using my phone at home.” His home is now adorned with his art pieces, each a colourful reminder of his newfound joy and pride.
The centre’s extended operating hours of 7 am to 7 pm has not only allowed Mr U more time to engage in the various activities, but greater convenience and flexibility for his loved ones when ferrying him to and fro the centre.
Mr U on a journey of creativity and joy through nagomi art
