For much of her life, Mdm Kamalam, 77, was known for her resilience, sacrifice, and love. A devoted mother of five, she embodied a “never say never” spirit.
From long shifts at the factory to selling food in the early mornings, she worked tirelessly to support her family. Even into her 70s, she remained independent and active, caring for her children and extended family with warmth and responsibility.
Her first stroke in 2022, brought on by a sudden fever and infection, came as a shock to the family. After undergoing rehabilitation at St Luke’s Hospital (SLH), she recovered and returned to managing her household — cleaning, cooking, and caring for others.
In 2024, a second stroke caused a more significant decline in her cognitive abilities and independence. Yet, there were still moments of joy. The family fondly recalls how SLH celebrated her birthday on 7 June in the ward. They also baked her favourite butter cake, which they shared with fellow patients and staff. “Even after two strokes, the SLH team was persistent in ensuring she could resume normal activities,” her daughter Selvi shared.
In early 2025, however, a third silent stroke and seizure left her needing oxygen support. Doctors gently explained that she might have about three months left to live. She was then admitted to SLH’s dedicated palliative care ward — where she could spend her final days in comfort and dignity.
For her family, the transition was emotional but also reassuring. “Caregiving can be very stressful; sometimes I would sit alone and cry. The team understood the pressures and challenges we faced,” Selvi recalled.
At SLH, family conferences with medical social workers and the care team provided a safe space to voice concerns and prepare for what lay ahead. Doctors and nurses patiently explained each stage of care, offered tips on self-care, and checked in regularly.
“At no point did it feel like mum was alone. She was cared for with so much patience and attention.”
To bring her comfort, staff encouraged the family to surround Mdm Kamalam with familiar items — her favourite radio and music, a cat-patterned pillow, and fleece jacket.
Though she spent most of her time asleep, the rehabilitation team continued gentle care, such as massaging her fingers and feet while soft music played in the background, and nurses made the effort to give her a proper shower instead of wiping her body. In moments of wakefulness, she would gaze intently at her loved ones gathered at her bedside.
In less than two weeks, on 15 April 2025, the family was guided through her final moments. Mdm Kamalam was dressed in silk pyjamas chosen by her family for her final farewell.
In a moving tribute, staff lined the corridor in her honour — a gesture of respect to a woman who had lived with strength and left with grace.
To Selvi, the support extended far beyond medical care.
“It was the genuine kindness and warmth you extended to both her and our family that truly touched us.”
In appreciation, the family returned with cakes for the ward team — a heartfelt thank you to those who had given them comfort, compassion, and cherished memories in Mdm Kamalam’s final chapter.
