“It was always a dream of mine to be an Oncology nurse. As a teenager, I came face-to-face with the horrors of cancer as I watched my best friend battle liver cancer. During this time, I saw him suffer in silence – but it was worse for his parents who had to watch their only son be defeated by the disease. The team of nurses who cared for him left an everlasting impression on me with their patience, kindness, dedication and compassionate touch.

I’ve been a nurse for 21 years now, of which 19 years have been dedicated to Oncology. As a member of the SingHealth Duke-NUS Head and Neck Centre, I see myself as the gel that brings a multi-disciplinary team together. We initiated the launch of a one-stop multi-disciplinary pre-surgery clinic and developed education materials for patients undergoing surgery. Although these were uphill tasks, it was rewarding to see our efforts improve patent experience.

Nursing is undoubtedly, a demanding profession. But it is this ability to share vulnerable experiences with people from all walks of life that builds altruism. Remembering my reason for becoming a nurse and the memorable moments I share with my patients is what keeps me persevering.”

Alice Chua Foong Sin
Senior Nurse Clinician, Nurse Clinician Department
National Cancer Centre Singapore

Winner of the “Outstanding Nurse Award” at the SingHealth Excellence Awards 2017.