​40-year-old Madam Haslina Wannor was diagnosed with Systemic Sclerosis in 2009 and Pulmonary Hypertension in 2012.

Hope signifies a desire for a better life and optimism of what the future holds. In most cases, to give hope means extending a helping hand to someone who needs it or a listening ear to someone who feels alone. For NHCS Heart To Heart Fund, we give hope by supporting our patients in their journey to better heart health and a more fulfilling life.

A Hopeful Warrior

40-year-old Madam Haslina Wannor was diagnosed with Systemic Sclerosis in 2009 and Pulmonary Hypertension in 2012. The single mother is unable to work as her health posed challenges in her daily activities. Hence, she relies on social welfare assistance and her 15-year-old daughter to care for her.

Mdm Haslina had to use a Personal Mobility Device to move around since 2018. About two years ago, she started on long-term oxygen therapy to manage her worsening symptoms such as severe fatigue, chest pain, heart palpitations and shortness of breath. Her movements were debilitated as it was impossible to leave the house with the heavy oxygen tank, which required regular changing and could only last a few hours.

Being a strong advocate and active volunteer for Pulmonary Hypertension disease and its support groups, Mdm Haslina was devastated when she was unable to continue her passion to support her fellow peers who were going through the same health battles as her.

Thankfully with the help of NHCS Heart To Heart Fund, she received a portable oxygen concentrator that could provide her with adequate oxygen supply wherever she goes.

A recipient of hope, Mdm Haslina determines to live life to the fullest and in turn, gives hope to others in her own way. She strives to raise awareness of her conditions and provides support to fellow patients who face similar challenges such as those in the NHCS Pulmonary Hypertension Support Group.

Hope Carries Us Through

A loving couple of more than 40 years, 67-year-old Madam Soh Cheok Huay and her husband, 73-year-old Mr Lim clearly demonstrated that when there is hope – no matter how great or little, it can keep one going. The couple are inseparable and have weathered many storms together - from losing their beloved son to living with stressful medical and financial challenges.

Mdm Soh who has been on long-term follow up care at the NHCS since 2005, relies on a wheelchair to get around. Mr Lim left his job years ago to take care of Mdm Soh, hence the couple has to depend on social assistance for their daily expenses and HDB housing rental.

Last year, when Mdm Soh’s wheelchair was damaged, they were distraught. While it may seem to be a small issue to many, it posed great challenges for the couple. They were not only unable to afford the repair cost, Mr Lim was unable to bring Mdm Soh out of the house, even for her medical appointments.

When all seemed bleak, medical social workers at NHCS reached out to them; offering financial support to get Mdm Soh’s wheelchair fixed. Small amount it may seem, but the gift from NHCS Heart To Heart Fund brought smiles to the couple. Now Mr Lim is able to conveniently bring his wife out for her medical care as well as spend quality time together by taking her out for strolls. Indeed, when there is hope, there is life.

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