Born in Singapore with a neurodevelopmental disorder known as Angelman Syndrome, 27-year-old Phyllis Lim Yin Xin has found a nurturing home at the Red Cross Home for the Disabled (RCHD) since 2009. 

Until the age of nine, Phyllis lived with her mother, Tang Geok Huay, and her three siblings in a rented home. A single working mother, Geok Huay juggled work commitments and parental responsibilities, relying on Phyllis' older siblings to help with Phyllis' caregiving during working hours. However, this arrangement, though born out of necessity, spawned an accident. That spurred Geok Huay to make the challenging yet indispensable decision to seek alternative care for her daughter. 

Today, with Phyllis under the compassionate care of the dedicated staff at the Red Cross Home for the Disabled (RCHD), Geok Huay is more assured of her daughter's safety. 

"RCHD is a better place for her as it ensures her safety," she shares. Geok Huay continues to work with peace of mind, financially supporting her granddaughter, of whom she is the guardian.

Blossoming at RCHD

At RCHD, Phyllis receives professional round-the-clock care from a team of dedicated caregivers who work on rotating shifts to ensure the needs of the residents. From assisting with the activities of daily living, to providing therapy, the team creates a structured and supportive haven for over a hundred residents with varying levels of intellectual and physical disabilities. 

During her visits, Geok Huay is heartened to see positive changes in her daughter.

"Phyllis has grown up. She is healthier and more cheerful," Geok Huay observes, noting that Phyllis seems more comfortable at RCHD. She prefers staying at RCHD rather than with relatives during the Lunar New Year.

Holistic Support & Communication

Beyond essential care, RCHD engages the residents in a range of activities, from birthday celebrations to group outings at iconic attractions like Marina Bay Sands and Jewel Changi Airport. These experiences add vibrancy to their lives and also create cherished memories.

While Phyllis is naturally reserved and often finds comfort in playing with napkins, she expresses herself through laughter, cries, and soft murmurs.

Despite communication barriers, the staff at RCHD navigated the challenges of comprehending these subtle forms of communication requiring patience, empathy, and keen observation. Staff "We pay attention to her body language, behaviour, and any changes in her routine, such as eating habits, to identify potential issues early," Staff Nurse Bernalyn Paragas explains.

Phyllis's condition is managed through annual hospital reviews and maintenance therapies. Ankle braces and a family-consented body restrainer safeguard Phyllis and other residents'  well-being. Equipped with rigorous training, the vigilant nursing team engages the residents in the activities of daily living, prioritising Phyllis' dignity and well-being.

The Angelic Smile

Over time, Phyllis has blossomed into a more expressive and more joyful individual. Her radiant smile is a source of warmth and encouragement to those around her. 

"She enjoys smiling and murmuring," a senior nursing aide notes, "She expresses her joy by clapping her hands."

“Phyllis is dearly loved by the staff nurses,” says Bernalyn. “The most endearing moments are when she smiles unexpectedly. There is an angelic quality to her expression.”

Going the extra mile, the care staff at RCHD keep residents entertained, enthralling them with occasional song and dance performances. They also thoughtfully curate items that bring comfort, based on each resident's preferences, such as adorning Phyllis with hair clips to uplift her spirits. 

United in Care

The staff at RCHD band together to organise outings and celebrations for the residents.  Coordination is imperative given the mammoth scale of the undertaking. 

"When the plans are finalised, we provide guidance to our junior nurses, informing them of the attending residents, the schedule, and the items to bring. Together, we ensure the residents' safety and well-being before, during and following the outing," says Bernalyn.

While caregiving can be physically and emotionally demanding, the staff at RCHD remain undaunted. Their indomitable spirit, tenacity and dedication fuel their daily efforts, gaining intrinsic fulfilment in their work. 

"It is heartwarming when you complete a job well," says Nursing Aide Wimalaine Liwes.

A Sanctuary of Love and Care

The RCHD staff's compassionate care has created a safe, loving, supportive and nurturing sanctuary for residents like Phyllis to thrive. For Geok Huay, it is a beacon of reassurance, providing her with peace of mind that her daughter is in good hands. Every smile, every clap, and every small triumph is celebrated. It is a place where hope flourishes and love abounds. 

By Siti Nadia Yanti bte Alang M.K, Volunteer
Copyedited by Eunice Sng and Sondra Foo, Marketing & Communications