A Resilient Heart for a Stronger Future

Mr Mokhtar’s cardiovascular journey began nearly five years ago during a routine check-up at the National Heart Centre Singapore. Doctors detected an abnormality in his cardiogram, which led to further tests and the diagnosis of a mitral valve leak. The condition was closely monitored, but over time it deteriorated. Surgery became necessary.

After undergoing the valve repair, Mr Mokhtar completed two months of post-operative physiotherapy at the hospital. He was then referred to the Singapore Heart Foundation’s Heart Wellness Centre (HWC) for long-term rehabilitation.

At HWC, Mr Mokhtar began weekly one-hour sessions. The programme was structured and deliberate. Using a logbook, he tracked his blood pressure, heart rate and intensive workout. Physiotherapists adjusted the pace of his exercises gradually. Each session started with warm-ups and progressively included upper and lower limb strengthening routines.

Before his rehabilitation, Mr Mokhtar’s physical activity was limited to walking around in his neighbourhood two to three times a week. With guided exercises at HWC and under professional supervision, his mobility and strength improved. He credits the physiotherapists for their attentive approach. “They’re well-trained. They identify mistakes immediately and correct them. I can ask them anything, and they explain things clearly,” he said.

His motivation to continue is grounded in prevention. “I want to avoid another surgery. This programme helps me improve steadily, and being monitored gives me peace of mind.” But it’s not just about physical recovery — the environment at HWC offers social support too. Weekly sessions have become an opportunity to build friendships and mutual encouragement. “We see one another weekly and encourage each other. That helps more than people realise.”

Participation in HWC is voluntary, but Mr Mokhtar believes it should be standard practice. He has observed other clients dropping out and he sees that as a missed opportunity. “It’s just once a week for an hour, and it’s fully guided. I hope more people will stay with it.”

To Mr Mokhtar, a resilient heart means “never giving up.” He believes the Heart Wellness Centre has empowered him and many others to keep moving forward. “I wish SHF continued success. They’ve built a strong and supportive community. I hope they can reach more patients and extend the impact of what they’re doing. It really helps.”

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