​After receiving exceptional care at the National Heart Centre Singapore (NHCS), patient Lee Weng Chong was inspired to give back in a meaningful way. This is his personal story of turning gratitude into a fundraising campaign that has touched the lives of many.

About four years ago, Mr Lee Weng Chong was referred to the National Heart Centre Singapore (NHCS) after doctors detected a heart murmur following an infection. During his multiple visits to NHCS, Mr Lee, who was 63-years-old then, was touched by the care shown and felt deeply grateful to Professor Chua Yeow Leng and his team.

"I knew I wanted to do something for them as a way of saying 'thank you', shared Mr Lee. "When I approached Prof Chua, he told me about other NHCS patients in need and shared the story of a grateful patient who had started a cycling fundraising campaign to support the NHCS Heart To Heart Fund."

As an avid golf enthusiast, Mr Lee thought he could do something similar. "I phoned a couple of friends with the idea of organising a private golf game in support of the Heart to Heart Fund. However, we encountered quite a few challenges. A lot of effort was required to organise a charity golf event, and the costs were quite high."

Still determined, Mr Lee continued to brainstorm for ideas on how he could support NHCS in their fundraising efforts. With assistance from a friend who deals with golf apparel, Mr Lee came up with the idea of assembling a goodie bag containing golf apparel and accessories out of his own pocket. Donors who contributed $200 or more to the campaign would receive this as a token of appreciation.

"Though apprehensive at first, I began talking to my golfing friends, sharing with them my heart and motivation behind this fundraising campaign. To my surprise, many of my friends were very supportive and even spread the word among their friends about this initiative. Before I knew it, we had raised more than our fundraising target! I also learnt that many of them donated more than the amount that I appealed for. I'm truly grateful and touched by the support from friends, far and wide, that allowed us to do something meaningful together for needy patients at NHCS."

More than $27,000 were raised for the NHCS Heart To Heart Fund through Mr Lee's fundraising campaign to support financially needy heart patients, who have been fighting lifelong battles against heart disease. Through this fundraising campaign, Mr Lee hopes to inspire others to start something similar. "It's not the quantum of your gift, but the act of doing what you can", Mr Lee commented. "If you wish to do good, you will find a way to do so. I hope that whatever help I can give will make an impact on the lives of the patients at NHCS."

Support Needy Heart Patients

Heart disease is a lifelong condition, and most patients require long-term medication, treatment and/or implanted devices to sustain their lives. If you are inspired by Mr Lee to help needy heart patients, you may do so by making a donation* here. Your contribution, no matter how big or small, can make a significant difference in their lives.

*From now until 31 March 2025, receive a limited edition NHCS 10^th Year Commemorative Coin when you donate $30 and more!