Rebuilding Strength, One Step at a Time

What began as a family holiday at Jeju Island turned into a critical turning point for Mdm Low Chu Siew. After a spicy dinner, she felt a discomfort which seemed like indigestion. By midnight, the unease escalated into chest pain and profuse sweating. Her daughter, Ms Agnes Tay, recognised the signs—having witnessed similar symptoms in her own father—and acted quickly. She called for an ambulance, and within minutes, Mdm Low was on her way to the hospital, where doctors confirmed a cardiac event. She underwent a stent procedure shortly after.

Back in Singapore, a neighbour recommended the Singapore Heart Foundation’s Heart Wellness Centre (HWC). It was exactly what they were looking for—a place that offered structured, medically supervised exercise tailored for heart patients. Though Mdm Low could only attend the session once a week due to limited capacity, the impact of those sessions was immediate and tangible.

The programme, led by trained staff and physiotherapists with expertise in cardiac rehabilitation, provided more than just exercise. It offered peace of mind. Ms Tay noted the difference in her mother’s confidence and mobility. Crossing the street—once upon a time a challenge—was no longer a concern.

At 80 years old, Mdm Low continues to attend weekly sessions. Her progress has been steady and encouraging. Her leg strength has improved, and she now keeps pace with, and in some cases surpasses, much younger participants.

For the family, HWC has become more than a rehilitation centre. It’s an anchor. The sessions are subsidised by the Singapore Heart Foundation, with the support of donors, and costs just $5 each—a level of affordability that makes sustained rehabilitation possible for more families. The programme hasn’t just helped Mdm Low recover physically. It has improved her quality of life.

This is the kind of support network that makes the difference—not just in the aftermath of a heart event, but in helping patients live better, live longer.

To learn more about the Heart Wellness Programme, visit https://www.myheart.org.sg/heart-wellness-programme/.