Elton John once said, “Music has healing power. It has the ability to take people out of themselves for a few hours.” Nowhere is this more fitting than in the case of Mr Ng Seck.
Diagnosed with terminal prostate cancer and facing severe physical limitations, Mr Ng remained in high spirits, thanks to his unshakable passion for Mandarin oldies. Bound by melodies and memories, his love for music, shared over 20 years with his long-time companion, Ms Chong, endured every hardship. This vibrant zest for life inspired a beautiful idea: a personal karaoke concert just for him. We wanted to give him a chance to do what he loved most: sing, fulfilling a profound desire through wish granting.
A Dream Takes Centre Stage
The plan was set in motion for a two-hour karaoke concert at a pub in Clarke Quay. Using a recent photo of Mr Ng, a concert poster was created with the help of AI and propped up at his hospital bedside a week before the event. His smile lit up the room as he gazed at the tribute to his long-held dream.
13 September 2024 finally arrived, and with it, Mr Ng’s big day. The futuristic-themed room at the karaoke pub buzzed with excitement as a community of supporters – nurses, medical social workers, volunteers, and friends – gathered to cheer him on. Mr Ng, though shy at first and wrapped warmly in a blanket, transformed the moment he grabbed the microphone.
The Music in His Soul
The moment his voice echoed in the room, singing his favourite tunes, Mr Ng came alive. The blanket slipped from his knees, forgotten in his sheer joy. For two hours, he held court, his voice unwavering as he sang song after song. Gentle nudges from the nurses offering water or soup were impatiently waved away; nothing could pry the microphone from his hands.
As he sang, Ms Chong stood by his side, the two of them sharing love duets that filled the room with emotion, a testament to a bond that had weathered decades and difficulties. The audience, prepared to step in should Mr Ng tire, found themselves clapping and whistling in admiration of his stamina and spirit. As one nurse marvelled,
“He can be grouchy in the hospital, but I’ve never seen him so happy. Look at the happy wrinkles around his eyes!”
A Legacy of Joy
Mr Ng’s smile was wide and constant; he didn’t want the concert to end. This was more than a karaoke session. It was a celebration of life, love, and the power of music to transcend even the most difficult moments. His joy was a reminder that while illness may take away many things, it cannot take away the music in our souls, making this a truly memorable wish experience.
Ambulance Wish Singapore (AWS) volunteers, Kong Hoe, Lionel, Sher Maine, and Janice, and the entire support community felt privileged to have shared in this moment – Mr Ng’s First Concert.
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Be the Heart of the Next Wish
Every memorable wish experience granted by Ambulance Wish Singapore is made possible by the generosity and time of people like you, and the community that rallied around Mr Ng.
His concert was a profound gift of dignity and joy, and its positive impact is immeasurable. Would you like to help us grant the next meaningful wish?
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