On 19 January 2025, Ambulance Wish Singapore was honoured to fulfil a deeply personal wish for 74-year-old Mdm Tan Bak Eem.

With time precious, her desire was simple yet profound: to feel refreshed and beautiful for a final family portrait, capturing the love that defined her life.

A Swift and Caring Response

Understanding the urgency, our volunteers sprang into action within hours. The wish began with a touch of personal care. Volunteer Alfred provided a gentle haircut, while a family member applied light makeup, bringing a soft, radiant glow to Mdm Tan’s face.

Meanwhile, a dedicated team led by volunteers Kezia, Caral, and Ethan worked tirelessly to transform her private hospital room into a warm and festive space. They created a cozy Lunar New Year celebration, complete with vibrant banners, a yúshēng prosperity salad, warm rice balls, and refreshing drinks. Volunteer Gladys arrived with a beautiful bouquet of Mdm Tan’s favourite pink and purple tulips, adding a final touch of personal beauty.

A Celebration of Love and Legacy

When Mdm Tan’s family arrived, they were moved by the thoughtful setup. Though she had hoped to be home for the festivities, her hospital room became a sanctuary of love. Her children and grandchildren gathered around her bed, sharing in the joyful tradition of tossing the yúshēng and exchanging heartfelt blessings for prosperity and health.

As professional portraits were taken, Mdm Tan’s eyes shone with quiet joy, basking in the embrace of her loved ones. It was a powerful moment of connection, preserving the family’s bond in a series of cherished photographs.

A Poignant Farewell

This gathering was more than a celebration; it was a profound expression of love, dignity, and the enduring strength of family.

The moment was beautifully captured in a poem volunteered by the team:

In the quiet room where time stands still,
A wish is heard, a heart to fill.
A gentle trim, a loving gaze,
A portrait set in golden rays.

With family near, with hands held tight,
A gathering held in auspicious light.
Laughter soft, yet echoes stay,
Love unbroken, come what may.

A wish fulfilled, a moment bright,
A life embraced in loving light.

Ambulance Wish Singapore is grateful to all the volunteers, including Alfred, Kezia, Caral, Ethan, and Gladys, for their compassion and speed in making Mdm Tan’s wish a reality.