In A Heartbeat

Off this afternoon to fetch Dad from his home in Woodlands to the National Heart Centre at Outram Road.

After his discharge from SGH last week, this is his first medical appointment with the centre, now that his case is temporarily given to Cardiologist Dr. Victor Lim.

Not sure what to expect from this appointment, except that Dad will most probably have to continue with the blood thinning medication, Warfarin for the months ahead.

A check with Mom, so far Dad has been lethargic; knowingly from the cough medication he is taking to clear his lungs from phlegm and aids his breathing. So far, no side effects from Warfarin... no sign of internal bleeding like blood in the urine or darkened stools.

So far his daily routine of gardening at the corridor and chores in the kitchen helping out Mom has not been impaired. He is indeed happy, given the attention and surrounded by his children and grandchildren. We are especially grateful that he is not in any pain.

Today, Mom will stay home alone, while I take Dad to his appointment. Without Mom who is wheel chaired-bound, we are able to take the train from his home to Ourtram MRT station.

Secretly amongst my siblings, our only worry is chemo treatment that has been put on-hold until his blood and heart are stable.

Oncologist Dr. Lo SK has set an appointment to see Dad in mid April 2009. So as long as Dad's breathing is alright, Dad will undergo taking Warfarin for about 6 months before she takes over the case back from the cardiologist.

It really helps that Dad has ample amount of money in his Medisave account; I think it is also a personal triumph for him to not have to depend on his children's monies for medical treatments as the major costs have been paid for by this account after the heavy government subsidies for old citizens.

Mom does not have that much in her account because she has never worked and received CPF contribution, except from the adhoc top-up Dad did for her from time to time.

Like always, in a hearbeat, all their chidlren and grandchildren come to their aid.

Since January 2009, mooted by Eldest Brother-in-law, we have started contributing to our "Parents Fund." Any of us can contribute any amount monthly we are willing to, to this account.

I am not expecting any surprises today.

We just pray for many more days to be with both Dad and Mom. Prying for their health and happiness, and a longer life surrounded by their children who love them dearly.

We are blessed to have this couple.