The first time it appeared, it seemed like nothing more than a blister. But for Mr Aw, 80, that small blister on his leg quickly turned into an agonising wound — the size of his palm — that made each step a struggle.
There was no clear trigger. Yet within days, the wound was oozing fluid, causing intense pain and robbing him of the ability to walk comfortably. He only learnt the cause after seeking medical attention: lower leg venous eczema and a history of cellulitis, which had escalated into ulcers on both legs.
Mr Aw was admitted to an acute hospital before being referred to St Luke’s Hospital (SLH) for further wound management.
During his inpatient stay, he received regular wound dressing and antibiotic treatment. The rehabilitation team also helped him regain strength, taking him for short walks twice a day to improve mobility.
Beyond treatment, Mr Aw recalls enjoying the little joys of ward life — trying arts and crafts, baking bread, and brewing coffee — moments that reminded him of life beyond his pain.
After a month, he was discharged and continued his wound recovery journey at St Luke’s Community Clinic (SLCC).
For the past six months, his wife, Mrs Aw, has faithfully accompanied him to every appointment. The couple usually take a taxi due to his limited mobility.
As Mr Aw sits down for treatment, she watches closely as the wound clinicians get to work — cleaning the wound and applying new bandages and compression socks to his legs.
When he first started treatment, each session could take up to an hour, and even the lightest touch would make him wince. Through it all, Senior Staff Nurse Duruga Devi cared for him with patience and precision. “I’m thankful for the gentle care shown to my sensitive, fragile skin,” Mr Aw said.
The couple also learned how to care for the wound at home — such as washing and applying cream, and how to go about daily activities like toileting and showering.
“Caring for a patient is more than administering treatments – it’s about recognising the whole person behind the ailment,” Staff Nurse Devi shared, reflecting on the importance of embodying compassion along every step of the patient’s journey. Be it through providing a listening ear, a gentle explanation, or a moment of patience, she hopes to express to all her patients that they are seen, respected, and valued.
As a caregiver, Mrs Aw has also found support at SLCC. “The staff here are always so patient with my husband, even when he was irritable from the pain,” she shared. “Encouragement can be really powerful. Over time, I’ve learned to be less stressed and worried myself.”
Today, Mr Aw’s wound is healing well. It has grown smaller, and he can now shower independently — a milestone that once felt out of reach.
“I’m really grateful for the conscientious care and support from the wound care clinicians at St Luke’s Hospital,” said Mr Aw.
