25 candles
Being 25 in healthcare today — what’s that like? Meet two nurses who share their birthday with SingHealth. In letters to themselves, they reflect on their journey in nursing and their wishes for this year and beyond.
Dear Shirleen,
Happy 25th birthday — congratulations on reaching a quarter of a century!
This year also marks your third year‚ as a full-fledged registered nurse at National Cancer Centre Singapore (NCCS). It s been quite a journey, filled with ups and downs. There were even times when you questioned your decision to embark on this career. But look at you now — you've persevered and learned so much. Every achievement, no matter how small, matters. I hope you take a moment to appreciate how far you've come and the growth you've experienced.
When it gets tough, remember why you chose nursing in the first place — to have the privilege of caring for others. While the work isn't always easy, you know that it's an honour to be there for your patients, to care for them, offering comfort and emotional support. Never forget how rewarding and meaningful it is to stand alongside them during their most vulnerable times, as even your smallest action can make a big impact.
Keep going — you're making a real difference!
Warmest wishes,
Shirleen Chia Xin Yi, Senior Staff Nurse, NCCS
Dear Sarah,
Your nursing journey has been guided by values such as Integrity, Compassion, Accountability, Respect and Excellence.
In the next five to ten years, I see you continuing to work on the ground, actively engaging with patients, advocating for their needs, and delivering quality care. I hope you'll foster strong relationships with patients, gain a deeper understanding of their conditions for enhanced care, and ensure that every nursing intervention is both appropriate and effective.
My wish for your fellow nurses who may be feeling challenged, stressed or demotivated is to remember that every effort counts, and even the smallest contribution can make a significant impact. I hope they'll give themselves credit for the impact they‚ve made, and always keep the sincerity of caring for others at the forefront of all they do.
As you turn 25, my wish for you is to be the nurse whom patients turn to in their most vulnerable moments, and that you'll offer both the gentle warmth they need, and the steady guidance that ensures their best care.
Remember that every patient's “thank you” is a precious reminder of why you chose this path.
Love always,
Sarah Alysyea Binte Mohamad Ali, Senior Staff Nurse, Changi General Hospital
This article was first published in Singapore Health Special Nursing Issue 2025.