How four strangers became close friends at WH...
Volunteering has brought Azlinda, Chris, Grace, and Bee Lian together, transforming their shared passion for service into a lasting friendship. What started as individual efforts has blossomed into a supportive team that learns from and enjoys one another's company. Over time, they’ve overcome challenges, shared ideas, and deepened their commitment to serving the community.
From working through tough moments to exchanging advice over coffee, they’ve created meaningful connections that make every shift special. Volunteering at WH has not only allowed them to serve but also to build friendships that go beyond their time here.
From left to right: Azlinda, Chris, Grace, Bee Lian
How did you first get involved with WH as volunteers?
Chris: At a roadshow in Kampung Admiralty, I met Esther and Jing Xuan at the volunteer booth, where they introduced me to the volunteer programme at Woodlands Health. I decided to enrol because I wanted to give back and engage in meaningful work during my retirement.
Grace: I discovered the recruitment exercise on Facebook and decided to sign up. Living in Woodlands, I often passed by the construction site of the campus as it was being built, and I’m thrilled to now be a part of it. I also volunteer with other charitable organisations, and I find that volunteering is incredibly fulfilling and contributes significantly to my personal growth.
What were your initial impressions of each other when you started volunteering together?
Bee Lian: From the very beginning, all three of them were incredibly friendly and eager to share their stories. I gained so much from their valuable and insightful life experiences!
Grace: Chris, Azlinda, and Bee Lian were immediately warm and open, sharing their experiences with me, which I found truly beneficial. I first met Chris and Azlinda during orientation, and they struck me as very welcoming. I connected with Bee Lian during a group activity (role play), and it was great working together right from the start.
How did your friendship start, and what brought you closer over time?
Azlinda: Chris was my buddy when I first started volunteering, and she was incredibly friendly, generous, and helpful, as she was part of the first batch of volunteers. We often turn to her for assistance, and she always brings cake or bread for us, even considering halal options for me. On her first day, Bee Lian was my buddy, and her eagerness to learn and caring nature stood out. Grace, who was Chris’s buddy on her first day, is the most cheerful among us and isn’t afraid to ask questions about the hospital. We all support each other whenever challenges arise.
Bee Lian: Azlinda was my excellent guide during my first volunteer session, helping me navigate Woodlands Health and my responsibilities. I met Grace during the Volunteer Orientation, and we had a blast during a role-play activity where her portrayal of a difficult patient was impressively realistic! Over time, we’ve interacted more, sharing useful information for our roles, chatting after volunteer sessions in the Hub, and enjoying the delicious snacks that Chris generously provides.
Can you share a memorable moment or experience you’ve had together while volunteering?
Grace: While volunteering at the medical centre pharmacy, I assisted a gentleman who came in to buy medicine. He was so pleased with the help I provided that he expressed interest in the volunteer programme. I was thrilled to help him sign up on the same day, and that moment really stood out for me.
Azlinda: One memorable experience occurred when a visitor asked for directions to the AIC office, and none of us knew where it was located. We initially thought it was in the Ren Ci building at Tower E, so I went to check, but it wasn’t there. I then approached the visitor service officer at the medical centre, who kindly contacted her colleague and found out that the office is at PSS level B1. After confirming the location, I made sure to inform Grace, Bee Lian, and Chris so we would know for future reference.
What do you enjoy most about working as a team at WH?
Chris: I look forward to my volunteering shifts every day because it means spending time with this wonderful team, volunteering together, and enjoying coffee afterward.
Bee Lian: I truly appreciate the camaraderie we’ve built in just two months. We always look out for one another and offer support, which gives me confidence knowing I can rely on their help and advice. Volunteering with friends brings me so much joy.
Passionate about giving back? Volunteer with us, register your interest at for.sg/whvolunteer.
