Finding Strength in Support

by KEVIN YIEW
Photos by GOH WEN SHUEAN

In a world where health challenges arise unexpectedly, Mr Koh’s tale stands as a powerful reminder of human resilience. It is an expression of the critical role that community support plays in healing.

Following his diagnosis of diabetes and serious cardiac problems, Mr Koh had to navigate a challenging journey that included hospitalisations, lifestyle adjustments, and the emotional burden of taking care of his family. He found much-needed relief from the Singapore Heart Foundation’s Heart Support Fund, which provided him with a CabCharge card to help cover the costs of his medical-related travel.

Mr Koh’s problems started unexpectedly. An athletic man who loved mountain biking, he suddenly became breathless one night, and his life took a sharp turn. A slew of medical emergencies followed, including pacemaker implantation and bypass surgery. Since his symptoms were mild at first, the diagnoses of diabetes and clogged arteries came as a severe shock. His declining health significantly affected his ability to enjoy the activities he loved. He frequently felt out of breath and lightheaded, making it impossible for him to stay active. “I never thought it was the sugar, not the cholesterol, that was responsible for my arterial blockage,” Mr Koh admitted, emphasising the need to change his lifestyle, which he had previously disregarded.

Emotional tension also exacerbated the physical toll. Mr Koh was concerned about not being able to provide for his family while grappling with his health. He felt that he was no longer a provider, but a burden, especially with the mounting costs of his medical care. “I couldn’t rely on my wife alone if something happened to me. We have two children who are still at school,” he lamented, emphasising the emotional and financial burden he bore. Frequent trips to the hospital led to a growing worry of financial strain. “I would have felt completely lost without the assistance of the medical social worker,” he said.

It was during one of these overwhelming moments that Mr Koh discovered the Heart Support Fund, a programme intended to provide financial support to heart patients in need. Through a referral from his medical social worker, he learnt that the fund could help cover some of the costs of his frequent visits to the hospital. He clarified, “The cab fare to the hospital was a huge expense. The CabCharge card made it easier for me to get the care I needed without constantly worrying about the bills. It helps to cover those costs.”

Mr Koh’s story continues to serve as a motivational example of the value of community awareness and support. “A lot of individuals are unaware of the Heart Support Fund,” he said, advising that it be marketed more broadly. “Please don’t hesitate to ask for assistance if you or someone you know is going through similar difficulties. Your life could really be changed by it.”

By sharing his own experience, Mr Koh not only draws attention to the Heart Support Fund but also to the value of being proactive about one’s health. “If I could go back in time, I would prioritise my wellbeing and stop smoking,” he said, hoping to encourage others to adopt a healthy lifestyle.

Mr Koh’s story exemplifies how hope, fortitude, and community support could transform lives. For many, the Singapore Heart Foundation’s Heart Support Fund is a ray of hope; it is a constant reminder of the value of compassion and helping those in need.

“The cab fare to the hospital was a huge expense. The CabCharge card made it easier for me to get the care I needed without constantly worrying about the bills. It helps to cover those costs.”

Extend your compassion by supporting the Singapore Heart Foundation and helping beneficiaries like Mr Koh. With your generous donation, you can provide crucial financial assistance to underprivileged heart patients, fund lifesaving surgeries, and support highly subsidised cardiac rehabilitation programmes.