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“From Rescue to Resilience” Sharing Session
On 26 Jul 2025 (Sat), the Singapore Heart Foundation hosted a combined sharing session for cardiac arrest survivors and community first responders (CFRs), at the Heart Wellness Centre (HWC) @ Bishan. This rare gathering provided both groups—often closely connected in emergency rescue stories—with an opportunity to bond, exchange experiences and gain valuable insights.
Prof Marcus Ong, Senior Consultant and Clinician Scientist at the Department of Emergency Medicine, Singapore General Hospital, and SHF Board Member, opened the session with an inspiring address. He celebrated the resilience of survivors—some marking their first year since cardiac arrest, others commemorating their 19th year—and commended the dedication and contributions of CFRs who make such impactful gatherings possible.
Dr Jason Chen, an interventional cardiologist at the National University Heart Centre, Singapore (NUHCS), followed with valuable insights on surviving cardiac arrest well. Drawing from his roles as cardiologist and community first responder, he highlighted the critical function of early CPR+AED in improving survival outcomes. Dr Chen candidly discussed the challenging journey of recovery from sudden cardiac arrest, emphasising the importance of a supportive community for survivors’ physical, emotional, mental and spiritual well-being. This is where he affirmed the work that SHF is doing through the Cardiac Arrest Survivors’ Club, which is an avenue for survivors to find mutual support and healing. The presence of both doctors and their heartfelt words prompted a lively Q&A which sparked thoughtful dialogue between survivors and responders.
The day concluded with a mindful movement and sound healing workshop that provided survivors and responders important tools for stress relief and renewal. Many attendees expressed strong appreciation for the event, saying they gained many valuable takeaways and were enriched by the experience.
