Beyond the ward, nursing colleagues are finding purpose through creativity. Whether through music and dance or writing, these personal passions nurture empathy, mindfulness, and connection, enriching the care they provide every day.

Dalida Jaren Valo
Staff Nurse, Outram Community Hospital

I have always felt like I lived in two worlds.

One is grounded in my work as a nurse, where I am focused, compassionate, and steady in caring for patients. The other comes alive through singing and dancing, where I am expressive, creative, and fully present in movement and music.

Both are important to me, and together, they shape who I am. I started performing in grade school and continued through university, taking part in drum and lyre classes, musical theatre, and oration competitions. These experiences gave me early exposure to the stage and helped build my confidence. More importantly, they taught me how to express myself and connect with people through performance.

Performing has taught me emotional awareness and presence, helping me care for patients with greater empathy and patience. In return, nursing has grounded me, giving my performances more sincerity and depth.Both continue to shape how I connect with others.

Pal Mae De Asis Sandoval
Senior Staff Nurse, Sengkang Community Hospital

I work mostly with elderly patients in a fast-paced environment where moments can easily be overlooked. Writing things down in real time allows me to capture patient concerns, subtle changes, and important details that might otherwise go unnoticed. Beyond organisation, these tools also create a space for reflection and connection.

A written note can bridge understanding, helping patients and their families better grasp instructions and feel more involved in their care. In the same way, these notes transfer knowledge within the workplace, guiding students and new staff as they begin to navigate the demands of the field.

What may appear as ordinary objects have, in practice, become my instruments of empathy, clarity, and connection.