As the Chinese New Year approaches, many people are busy preparing for the festivities—cleaning their homes, shopping for new clothes, and planning menus for their family feasts. However, not everyone will celebrate in the usual way.

For 54-year-old Sharon Yap, this Lunar New Year will be far from traditional. Instead of enjoying the lively atmosphere of a family gathering, complete with the scent of bak kwa or the warmth of a hot pot meal, she’ll spend the holiday in a hospital room. Sharon has been admitted to Yishun Community Hospital for the past three months, and her recovery progress suggests she won’t be discharged in time to celebrate as she has in previous years.

A Health Crisis Unfolds: What began as a simple fever one night last year quickly spiraled into a major health ordeal for Sharon. Initially dismissing it as nothing serious, she visited a polyclinic the next morning, where a doctor urged her to seek immediate hospital care.

Expecting a short stay for what she thought was a mild fever, Sharon was stunned to learn she had gallbladder disease and required surgery. "Why did this happen to me? My life used to be so full of joy and excitement," she reflected.

A Different Kind of New Year: Before her illness, Sharon’s Lunar New Year celebrations were filled with family traditions. As a divorcee living apart from her children, she would often join her older brother’s family for the festivities. From indulging in festive treats to late-night card games, it was a routine she enjoyed every year.

However, Sharon admits to feeling a sense of detachment from familial bonds, which stemmed from her parents' health struggles during her childhood. "I never really had a strong connection with them," she shared.

What Sharon misses most this year isn’t the celebrations—it’s her beloved dog, Baobei. The nine-year-old dog, who has been her constant companion in her two-room flat, was like family to her. "I don’t really miss the New Year activities. I just miss my dog. My dog is enough," she said, her voice filled with longing.

Since her hospitalization, Baobei has been cared for by a friend, and the separation has been particularly difficult for Sharon. The hospital staff had planned a visit to reunite her with Baobei, but her worsening health has postponed those plans for now.

Support and Care: Sharon’s care team at Yishun Community Hospital has taken a holistic approach to her recovery. Staff members like assistant nurse clinician Penny Chen, senior physiotherapist Halim Zul Fahmi, and medical social worker Kathryn Tan have built close relationships with her. They believe that small, meaningful gestures—like a visit from Baobei—can motivate patients to adhere to their treatment plans and recover faster.

During festive periods like Chinese New Year, the hospital sees an increase in family visits. Patients who are well enough may be allowed home leave to spend time with loved ones or meet them in designated areas on the hospital premises.

The wards at the hospital have also been decorated for the occasion, with lanterns, plum blossoms, and signs of good fortune adorning the spaces. On New Year’s Eve, patients will be served a festive meal featuring healthier versions of traditional dishes like Prosperity Braised Cabbage and Orange Mousse.

Looking Ahead: Despite her circumstances, Sharon is hopeful for the future. Her children have promised to take her traveling once she recovers. "I’m looking forward to traveling overseas. I’ll go wherever they take me," she said with a smile. For now, she’s focusing on getting better, supported by the care of hospital staff and the hope of reuniting with her furry best friend, Baobei.

Disclaimer: This image is taken from AsiaOne/Amierul Rashid