"I started out my nursing career in a neurology medical ward.  I saw patients with dementia, stroke and Parkinson's disease. These patients could no longer remember their family, and they could not even recall if they had eaten their lunch.

I was subsequently transferred to the neonatal department, a place which made me realise how lucky most of us are. It was heartbreaking to see pre-term babies on ventilators, with congential disease or needing to go for an operation at such a young age.

When I worked in the intensive care unit, I realised how fragile life is. The intensive care unit is often where the patients' suffering end. It might be the place where you will see them, hold them or talk to them for the very last time.

After walking through the doors of different departments, I have learnt to treasure and appreciate my loved ones even more. So, when was the last time you expressed love to the people closest to you?"

Teo Wei Qin
Senior Staff Nurse, Surgical ICU
Singapore General Hospital

Tags: Nurse