Mr Mahandeeran’s Precious Homecoming
Mr Mahandeeran wished to return home, even for a brief time. He wanted to visit his beloved mother, who was wheelchair-bound and living with dementia. Beyond that, he longed for something wonderfully familiar: his sister’s home-cooked fish curry, a taste of home he had missed dearly.
The wish was referred on a Monday, and with a shared sense of purpose and compassion, it was brought to life within the very same weekend. The wish team, led by Irene and supported by volunteers Alvin and Geetika, rallied together swiftly. They reached out to Mr Mahandeeran’s next of kin — his devoted sister — and worked closely with her to make all the necessary arrangements, determined to make this homecoming truly special.
On the day of the wish, the team arrived at St Luke’s Hospital to pick up Mr Mahandeeran. Smiling and bubbling with excitement, they shared with him that a surprise awaited his family. As he returned home, emotions ran high. Mr Mahan presented his sister with a bouquet of flowers and a handwritten note, a heartfelt gesture of gratitude for her forgiveness, love, and unwavering commitment to visiting him daily at the hospital. He then presented another bouquet to his mother, whom he had not seen since his hospitalisation.
The reunion was deeply moving. For the next two precious hours, Mr Mahandeeran immersed himself in the comfort of home, bonding with his family, sharing memories, and simply being present. Close friends also dropped by, filling the home with warmth and laughter. And of course, there was fish curry — a simple dish, yet one that carried profound meaning.
When it was time to return to St Luke’s Hospital, the farewell was bittersweet. Though the visit was brief, it was rich with connection, dignity, and love — a powerful reminder that even the simplest wishes can create the most unforgettable moments.
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Ms Vanessa’s Celebration of Life was, at its heart, a portrait of strength. Told that her cancer was now terminal, she chose to face this season with courage, creating a living funeral where she could stand in the same room as the people she loves, hear their voices, and celebrate the journey they have shared. She stayed closely involved in the planning, bringing the same determination and clarity she has shown in her work and personal life. The evening was filled with light moments and deep connections – from sincere speeches and spoken encouragement, to messages flowing in through livestream from loved ones overseas, all reflecting how widely and deeply she has touched others. It was moving to see how her international community came together, both in person and online, to hold space for her courage and her joy. During the celebration, her pastor shared reflections and heartfelt speeches that honoured Vanessa’s courage, resilience, and impact. As the night drew to a close, the celebration rose into a joyful finale. When Bon Jovi’s “It’s My Life” played, Vanessa and her friends danced with bright, fearless energy and laughter, a powerful picture of joy and strength in the face of uncertainty. Heartfelt thanks to Vanessa’s family, Sister Shirley, and the YCCL church community, and to Ambulance Wish Singapore volunteers Ryu, Eunice, Seok Yee, and Kelvina. Special shout-out to our make-up artist, Karyn, and photographer, Brian, for providing pro bono services. This meaningful wish would also not have been made possible without the kind assistance of Strikey Posey for videography and photobooth services, and of floral partner The Wedding Huts for the beautiful venue decoration.
