What began with a first aid course nearly four years ago has grown into a shared journey of service for Eddie Adam Angullia and Wai Wai Khin. Now, the husband-and-wife volunteers are receiving the Singapore Red Cross Commendation Award for their contributions to the community.
For Eddie Adam Angullia, 46, and Wai Wai Khin, 43, volunteering began with a simple question: What could they do with the skills they learned?
After completing their Standard First Aid training in 2023, the couple decided they wanted to put those skills to good use.
“We’ve always believed that first aid is more than just a skill — it’s the ability to make a real difference when someone needs help the most.”
They soon found their answer at the Singapore Red Cross’ (SRC) First Aid on Wheels (FAOW) programme. Their first volunteer shift at East Coast Park was both enjoyable and rewarding, giving them a chance to put their newly acquired skills into practice — and, as it turned out, a reason to keep coming back.
As they became more involved, the couple began looking for ways to do more, particularly for seniors and vulnerable members of the community. Along the way, they served as first aiders at events including Chingay and the National Day Parade, and completed further training in emergency response.
Answering the Call
Their growing interest in supporting seniors eventually led them to the Home Monitoring and Eldercare (HoME+) programme, where they became community responders, responding to activations involving seniors living alone. They also volunteer with Project S.W.I.F.T., a Red Cross Youth initiative, conducting welfare checks and ensuring seniors’ monitoring devices are functioning properly.
But it was through HoME+ that they found themselves in some of the most unexpected situations. Eddie has since responded to close to 40 activations, more than 20 of them alongside Wai Wai.
Even then, one activation in particular remains etched in their minds.
The couple was alerted to an elderly man who had fallen on his way to the market. When they arrived, they found him dizzy and confused. After assessing his condition, they found that his blood pressure was critically low and immediately activated 995.
“Although we are just community responders, not healthcare professionals, knowing that our prompt response could help someone receive the urgent medical attention they need is incredibly meaningful.”
For the couple, moments like these have reinforced the value of being prepared and simply being willing to step forward when someone needs help.
Small Acts, Meaningful Moments
Over time, their journey with the SRC also taught them that helping others can take many forms.
“Many seniors living alone value companionship just as much as practical assistance. Sometimes, just being there and having a conversation is enough for them.”
And for them, it is a lesson that extends into their personal lives. They have come to realise that sometimes, making a difference can be as simple as showing up and letting others know they are not alone.
It is a lesson they hope to carry forward, and one they hope others will discover too.
A Journey Worth Sharing
Receiving the Singapore Red Cross Commendation Award was never what prompted the couple to volunteer.
“We never started volunteering with the expectation of receiving recognition. We volunteered because we wanted to use our skills to help others and contribute to the community.”
But the award is an encouragement to continue doing what they started three years ago — putting their skills to good use and making a difference where they can.
“We hope this award will inspire more people to step forward, volunteer, and discover that even a small act of kindness can make a meaningful difference in someone’s life.”
