Staying Resilient Through His Heart Journey

For over a decade, Mr Desmond Lee has been a regular face at the Singapore Heart Foundation’s Heart Wellness Centre (HWC). Diagnosed with severe arterial blockages in his early 60s, he credits SHF for not only aiding his recovery, but also for helping him build a sustainable, heart-healthy lifestyle that has carried him through the years.

At the time of his heart incident, Mr Lee had just retired. His lifestyle was mostly sedentary, aside from occasional bowling. The turning point came one afternoon after a simple supermarket trip. He was fatigued and short of breath after walking just 10 metres. His wife insisted that he should immediately see a doctor. The next day, she was due for her own polyclinic visit, and she took him along. The attending physician quickly escalated the case, referring him to the A&E.

Doctors at Changi General Hospital diagnosed him with significant blockages in three arteries. He was transferred to the National Heart Centre Singapore for the bypass surgery. After the initial post-op rehabilitation, he was referred to HWC for long-term rehabilitation and has been attending the exercise sessions ever since.

Mr Lee began his programme at HWC @ Bishan, later moving to Fortune Centre when the former became overcrowded. Before the COVID-19 pandemic, he was attending sessions up to three times a week. Today, more than 10 years later, he continues his weekly attendance with consistency.

What has kept him committed is the combination of structured care, professional guidance and a strong social network. He appreciates how the physiotherapists adapt his routine based on his evolving condition. The gym is equipped with both cardio and strength training machines, and the sessions are closely supervised, which gives him assurance. He feels the environment is safe, especially for seniors.

One physiotherapist stands out. Zijing, he says, was always professional, precise and patient — making sure exercises were done right, and that the client stayed informed. Her support gave him the confidence to make sustainable lifestyle changes, particularly in his diet and exercise routines.

Beyond the clinical benefits, the social bonds formed at HWC have played a critical role. Over the years, Mr Lee has developed close friendships with other clients. These relationships have added accountability to his routine — he knows others will notice if he doesn’t show up. The mutual support keeps the morale high and the motivation steady.

Mr Lee is an active advocate for the SHF model. During his visits to polyclinics, he often shares his experience with others and encourages healthcare staff to refer more patients. He sees HWC not just as a place for rehabilitation, but as an essential part of the post-cardiac care ecosystem. “It’s not just exercise — it’s the structure, the people and the ongoing support that make the difference.”

Find out more about the Heart Wellness Programme.