If you had ever taken bus 151 through Hougang to your schools, you might have met 65 year-old Mr Yeo Kok Hoong, your friendly bus captain who had been driving this same route for over 30 years. Born in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, Mr Yeo moved to Singapore in his 30s and worked as a bus driver. His long days often began as early as 5 am or ended as late as 2 am, working six days a week. Living in a rented flat with his fellow bus drivers, Mr Yeo found joy in simple pleasures, especially cooking favourite dishes like Hokkien Mee and ginger chicken for his flat mates on his days off.
In 2024, Mr Yeo was diagnosed with lung cancer. He bravely underwent chemotherapy and radiotherapy, but by the end of the year, the cancer had spread to his brain. As he was single and his siblings were in Malaysia, he faced his illness mostly alone. His close friends here were fellow bus drivers who were also busy with their work.
When he came under the care of Assisi Hospice in April 2025, his worries were many. He was anxious about his declining health and uncertain about who would care for him. Financial concerns weighed heavily after he had to stop working. Our doctors and nurses provided him with round-the-clock care to manage his symptoms, and our medical social worker helped him to apply for financial aid and assured him of his care. He came under our No One Dies Alone (NODA) programme, and our volunteers became his friends. They brought light and companionship to his days, understanding his love of food and organising a small gathering with his favourite hawker delights. The weekly Food Buddy programme ensured his cravings were met, with volunteers delivering the dishes he longed for.
On 21 August 2025, Mr Yeo passed away peacefully at Assisi Hospice. True to the spirit of NODA, volunteers stayed by his bedside, offering comfort and companionship until his final moments.
This Christmas, bring care, comfort, and friendship to patients like Mr Yeo who face their final journey with courage but need a community to walk beside them.
