Accidents can happen anytime, when you least expect it. Sitting out of view of an incoming vehicle, an unfortunate accident with a 35-seater bus left Mr Kalai in a coma. Rushed to the Intensive Care Unit, he required urgent medical surgery on areas like his spine and arms. When he awoke, he learned that he had suffered deep wounds on multiple areas of his body and face, and was fully immobile. 

Coming to Singapore for work 2 years ago in his late 20s, he lived in a dorm and was unable to speak much English. Suddenly being unable to move or work traumatised him and caused much distress. 

In late December 2022, he was admitted to St Luke’s Hospital (SLH) for wound and rehabilitation care. Learning about his condition and mental state, Registrar Dr Rachel Lu and the multidisciplinary team at Ward 2C supported his recovery as best they could. With a team of wound specialists, his raw wounds were accessed and treated. The nursing team, led by Nurse Managers Sr Kavitha and Sr Patricia, helped to change his wound dressing regularly for optimal healing. Kalai also participated in therapy sessions, targeting areas like the muscles on the left side of his body which were the weakest. After 3 months, although still in pain, he could walk short distances with support. 

At one point, to prevent the spread of infections, he was confined to a small area. “When I sit for long hours, my spine becomes pain. I wanted to be able to walk and clear my mind,” expressed Kalai. To ease his worries, Dr Rachel appealed for him to be able to walk within the premises. Accompanied by Medical Social Worker Teo Jie Ting, he was able to do so along the corridors and the community garden. She also assisted him on little ventures outside the hospital, such as buying food and cutting hair. 

After about 9 months at SLH, he was discharged in September 2023 with his wounds recovering well. Today, he continues to visit St Luke’s Community Clinic for follow-up vaccination appointments, arranged by Dr Rachel, to protect him from infections after the accident resulted in a removed spleen. 

“I am very thankful to Dr Rachel for taking care of me, and all the nurses and staff of ward 2C; they really helped me a lot. I am now resting at the dorm, and looking forward to a full recovery,” said Kalai, with renewed hope. 

persevering through