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At the end of life, we find that love and kindness endure – in the hands that comfort, the voices that soothe, and the hearts that choose to give. This is the story of Janet, a devoted HCA Hospice volunteer.
Janet’s journey with HCA began during one of the most difficult moments of her life. Her mother was gravely ill, and the family had turned to HCA for support. Within hours of their referral, a team of doctors, nurses, and medical social workers arrived at their home, surrounding her mother with warmth and care.
Her mother passed on peacefully, and the compassion Janet witnessed and felt in those final days stayed with her. Over time, it became a calling for her to give back, and she now volunteers regularly at HCA’s Kang Le Day Hospice. At the centre, she contributes more than just her time. She has become a friend to the patients, bringing laughter and companionship. Whether leading a singalong or sharing a quiet conversation, she believes that joy is always worth giving, especially at the end of life.
Janet (standing) bringing festive cheer to the patients at HCA’s Kang Le Day Hospice during Christmas last year
Janet’s care extends these light-hearted moments too. As a Vigil Angel, she journeys alongside patients in their final hours, holding their hands in their last breaths, offering comfort when words are no longer needed. To Janet, love is not measured in grand gestures but in the quiet, unwavering presence and the dignity of human connection that she offers. Even in silence, her care speaks volumes.
Janet’s journey was recently featured in Before You Go 余生正好, a Channel U documentary that spotlights the incredible people behind palliative care who bring comfort, dignity and joy to patients.
The episode follows her as she tenderly supports two families, alongside fellow Vigil Angel, Esther – her mentor in her early days of volunteering and now a pillar of strength in moments of grief. It highlights how the compassion of a Vigil Angel works hand in hand with the medical expertise of nurses like Yen Ein, creating a network of care that embraces both patients and their families in their most vulnerable moments.
Catch the episode below and witness how a Vigil Angel journeys with the imminently dying through their last hours. Together with volunteers like Janet, HCA can continue #CreatingGoodDays for those we care for.
Before You Go: https://www.mewatch.sg/watch/Before-You-Go-E2-520294
