For months, 77-year-old Tommy Tang grappled with a severe wound infection after removal of a tumour on his left thigh – a common complication of radiation therapy.
“After surgery, the swelling and heavy discharge persisted for months,” he recalled. The ordeal took a darker turn when he contracted COVID-19, which further weakened his immune system and led to dramatic weight loss.
Despite these challenges, Tommy knew there was one place he could turn to. In May 2024, he chose to be admitted to St Luke’s Hospital (SLH) for specialised wound care. “I knew SLH had a high success rate in wound recovery, and the staff are very professional,” he explained.
Having served as a Service Ambassador at SLH before retiring in 2021, Tommy was confident that the hospital’s personalised care from its dedicated staff would make all the difference. SLH’s rehabilitation programme would also allow him to stay active in the process.
His experience at SLH exceeded expectations. “The wound care team, especially Nurse Manager Saw Eh Htoo and the nurses in Ward 1B, were incredible – one of the best in Singapore,” Tommy shared.
After 11 weeks of Negative Pressure Wound Therapy (VAC), his wound showed remarkable improvement, shrinking to less than half its original size, with swelling and discharge significantly reduced. Although the VAC machine attached to the wound limited some rehabilitation exercises, he regained significant strength in his left leg, thanks to the therapists. “They were very patient, showing me exactly how to do the exercises,” he shared.
Nutrition also played a crucial role in Tommy’s recovery. With the guidance of dietitian Jermaine Chu, he followed a specialised diet plan emphasising high protein intake. He also started nutritional supplements to support wound healing and restore balanced nutrition. This approach helped him regain much of his lost weight and supported his wound healing. “My wife and I are grateful for the dietary support and education as we prepared to return home,” Tommy shared.
Now, with his wound nearly healed, Tommy is optimistic about the future. “I look forward to a full recovery,” he says confidently. He remains active with his wife, enjoying morning walks, grocery shopping, and even helping with housework and caring for their grandchildren.
