Marilyn Koh
Nurse Clinician
A simple act of washing and styling a patient’s hair became a turning point in Nurse Clinician Marilyn’s understanding of care — one that continues to guide how she shows up for every patient she meets.
The Quiet Lessons Patients Leave Behind
For Nurse Clinician marilyn, nursing has always been about care in its more human form. From the beginning of her journey, she has drawn to the idea of being present for people—not just through treatment, but also through kindness, attention, and understanding.
Over the years, she says that each patient has deepened this belief. Each encounter has taught her something small but lasting, gradually shaping the way she approaches her work every day.
Marilyn remembers one patient in particular who needed full asssitance with her daily care. As Marilyn supported her with routines such as sponge baths, she began to notice how the illness had affected more than the patient’s physical well-being. It also seemed to have changed how she saw and felt about herself.
Outside of her shifts, Marilyn returned to gently wash and style the patient’s hair.
It was a simple act, but one that stayed with her. The patient, who had not felt like herself in months, lit up in a way that reminded Marilyn how deeply people long to be seen — not only as patients receiving care, but as individuals.
Another patient who left a mark on her was an older patient who ate very slowly due to her condition. With mealtimes often moving quickly, Marilyn noticed that the pace left her feeling pressured.
Whenever she could, Marilyn would sit with the patient and assist her with the meal, allowing her to eat at her own pace. Sometimes, they would talk about family. At other times, they would simply sit in quiet company.
Over time, the patient became calmer and more at ease.
For Marilyn, these moments reinforce something she now holds closely: every patient teaches her something. And in return, she quietly makes a promise to herself—to carry forward a small act of kindness, patience, or compassion forward to the next person she meets.
She has carried these lessons into every stage of her nursing journey. More than a role, caring for others has become a responsibility she renews each day.
Now working in an outpatient care setting, Marilyn often meets patients or caregivers who are anxious, uncertain, or trying to make sense of long-term conditions. Through these interactions, she continues to learn that patience and small reassurances can make a meaningful difference.
She has also come to understand that care does not end when the consultation ends. Sometimes, it takes the form of a follow-up call. At other times, it means taking a little more time to explain something clearly, or simply making sure a patient knows they are not alone.
Outside of work, she spends time with friends over long meals, conversations, and simple shared routines like walking or exercising together. It helps her stay grounded and reminds her of life beyond the clinic.
If there is one thing she has come to believe, it is that nursing is not only about what is done for patients, but also what stays with you after each encounter.
For Marilyn, what stays is the quiet lesson each patient leaves behind—and the decision to carry it forward with care.
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