Leong and Betty’s love story began decades ago at their workplace — a quiet beginning that blossomed into a bond meant to last a lifetime.
Betty never imagined she’d be his type. Leong was 20 years her senior, someone whose life was deeply driven by theology, often reflecting on spiritual insights. She was the quiet, adventurous doer — someone who embraced life with action.
Their differences, however, only deepened their connection. Through the years, they complemented each other beautifully with each season deepening the love they shared. But one day, life threw them an unexpected curve — Leong was diagnosed with Stage 4 colorectal cancer.
As his condition worsened, Leong expressed a simple wish — to spend his final days in a place filled with warmth, peace, and dignity. Honouring this, his family admitted him to the palliative ward at St Luke’s Hospital (SLH).
Though weakened by illness and burdened with pain that accompanied his illness, Leong found strength in the daily presence of Betty and his family — and comfort in the gentle, unwavering support of the SLH team. Slowly, he began to open up to the palliative care team, sharing quiet reflections and final wishes.
Two weeks before his passing, Leong expressed a heartfelt desire to worship together with the care team who journeyed with him. Surrounded by his loved ones and the dedicated staff, they gathered to sing ‘Goodness of God.’ In a soft voice, Leong shared, “This setting, with everyone worshipping together, reminds me of God’s community. I had been looking forward to this day.”
Throughout his stay, Family Physician Dr Rachel Lu and Nurse Manager Jean Cabreros worked closely to manage his symptoms and ease his pain. Though there were difficult days, the team’s calm presence and gentle care lifted his spirits, bringing moments of peace.
Beyond his clinical needs, a medical social worker also supported the family through practical and financial matters, while a pastoral counsellor provided gentle spiritual care — even when Leong was too weak to speak. Betty, too, was uplifted through prayer, heartfelt conversations, and a handwritten card. In Leong’s final week, prayers were shared with them both — including the night before he passed.
Betty reflected, “He was always a man of few words. But after receiving his prognosis, something changed. His heart softened; his presence gentler. I’m thankful to have witnessed this side of him. The team here talked to him every day — not just talking but speaking with such compassion.”
With the care team’s help, Leong found tender ways to express his love. He shared in a music therapy session that he wanted to dedicate a song to his wife. He chose You Are My Sunshine, a song Betty used to sing to him, as a surprise gift to sing back to her, along with a beautiful bouquet and a heartfelt card.
With a soft laugh and tears in her eyes, Betty recalled, “I never saw it coming — he’s not usually the romantic type!”
For Betty, their farewell was more than sorrow. It became a precious, unexpected memory — one she will treasure forever.
