A Quiet Life Together

Mr Woo is 67 this year. He used to drive for a living and knew the roads of Singapore by heart. His wife, Susan often shares that he never needed GPS and could find any block faster than the app.

They have been married for decades and now live in a small 2-room flat. It is smaller than the 3-room flat they once owned, but they sold that home to clear debts and fully pay for their current place. Mr Woo says that at least this roof is theirs and they do not owe anyone for it.

These days, their world is mostly home, medical appointments, and short walks when Mr Woo has enough breath. Their combined income from CPF payouts, Workfare, and Silver Support adds up to less than $800 a month. Susan keeps a small notebook where she writes down each expense, down to the last few cents. She explains that they do not spend on anything unnecessary, only food, utilities, and medical needs.

Even so, it is not enough.

When Health Began to Slip

Over the past few years, Mr Woo’s health has changed sharply. He lives with diabetes complicated by eye problems, chronic kidney disease, rheumatoid arthritis, asthma, and severe interstitial lung disease. His lung function has fallen to 45 percent. He depends on oxygen support to breathe comfortably.

Since October 2025, he has been unable to work or drive. His eyesight has worsened because of diabetic retinopathy. He describes his vision as looking through a layer of mist.

Fifteen months ago, his oxygen machine broke down. The repair would have cost $1,200. A new set costs $1,853. He could afford neither. For more than a year, he managed without oxygen support, relying on breathing exercises and telling himself to breathe slowly and not panic.

Eventually, a friend helped him secure a loaned machine, even though such loans are usually reserved for in-house patients. It was a relief, but the arrangement is temporary.

There is also a medication that could slow his lung deterioration. It costs $3,200 a month. Mr Woo has not started it because he worries about committing to a treatment he cannot sustain long term. He says there is little point in beginning something if he may be forced to stop halfway.

Susan is unwell too. She struggles with chronic back pain and low blood pressure, and she has collapsed twice in public. Because of her condition, she cannot hold a job. She shares that some days she feels steady, and some days she does not, and she worries about falling when her husband needs her.

They have no family members who can support them financially.

Still Trying, Even Now

Even as his breathing worsened, Mr Woo continued looking for small ad hoc jobs whenever possible. Short tasks. Light errands. Anything that would bring in a little cash. He says that if someone asks and he thinks he can manage, he will try. But the breathlessness, fatigue, and poor eyesight make regular work almost impossible.

Meanwhile, the bills continue to arrive. Each month, their expenses exceed what they receive. They cut back wherever they can, delaying treatments and stretching groceries. Susan says it feels like they are always trying to catch up but never quite do.

What We Are Raising Funds For

We are hoping to raise $9,377.28* to give Mr Woo and Susan breathing room and stability:

1. A new oxygen machine: $1,853
2. Clearing outstanding hospital bills: $3,420.22
3. Clearing outstanding SP bills: $2,645.06
4. Clearing outstanding Town Council bills: $393.19
5. Basic household expenses for three months: $900 ($300/month)

These are essential needs that will allow Mr Woo to breathe safely and live without the constant fear of utilities being cut off.

What Your Support Will Mean

With a permanent oxygen machine, Mr Woo will not have to worry about losing access to the support that keeps him comfortable. Clearing the overdue bills will prevent further penalties and the risk of service disruption. 

Mr Woo shares that he does not ask for big things, only the ability to breathe properly and not trouble others. Susan adds that they simply hope to live quietly and manage their days with some peace of mind.

Your support can help make that possible.

*The campaign goal includes a 1.8% payment processing fee.