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Year 2025
July 2025

In Sickness and in Health: Walking Through Alzheimer’s as One

July 14, 2025
Articles

When Devi Hunt pledged to love John in sickness and in health all those years ago, she could not have foreseen the trials that would follownor how fiercely that vow would one day be tested.

John and Devi Hunt, avid adventurers and each other’s closest companions, used to travel the world frequently. But in 2017, when John was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, their journeys took an unexpected turn. Almost overnight, Devi stepped into the unfamiliar and demanding role of a caregiverlearning to navigate the unpredictability of John’s tantrums and behaviours, and the changes the disease wrought on his body.

As John’s condition deteriorated, Devi made the heartbreaking decision to place him at St Luke’s ElderCare Residence @ Ang Mo Kio (SLEC Residence @ AMK). What may have seemed like a retreat from her vows was, in fact, an extension of them, as Devi entrusted John to the dedicated care of the SLEC team, which included nurses Hafidah and Lily, senior physiotherapist Cecilia, and therapy associate Nabisha.

To help heal a large wound on John’s leg, Nurse Hafidah recommended Negative Pressure Wound Therapy, a treatment that drains excess fluid and promotes tissue growth. Due to the pain from the treatment and daily dressing, John would often become agitated. Nonetheless, the care team continued to serve him with dedication and empathy, eventually earning his trust and appreciation. Similarly, as the wound healed and John became more responsive, Devi’s confidence in the team also grew.  

 

John enjoying a private orchestra rehearsal at Victoria Concert Hall for his 80th birthday

 

SLEC Goes the Extra Mile 

Like anyone, Devi had good and bad days, but the care team stood by her, offering support and comfort while going beyond their clinical duties to lift her spirits. Knowing that the couple enjoyed the arts, their medical social worker arranged for them to attend a private rehearsal of an international orchestra performing in Singaporean exclusive gift for John’s 80th birthday. As the sole audience in the concert hall, they shared a surreal, unparalleled experience that would linger in their memories forever.

Today, Devi continues to visit SLEC Residence @ AMK dailynot just for John, but also to enjoy the warmth and companionship of the care team. Speaking of her experience with SLEC, Devi shares: “The staff treat John and me like family, and their support has made us feel truly at home. I’m deeply grateful for their friendship and encouragement.” 

 

Devi (third from left) with the care staff at SLEC Residence @ AMK 

 

John’s and Devi’s journey is a testament to a love that knows no bounds—even in the face of Alzheimer’s. If you or a loved one is navigating a similar path, let us walk alongside you on a care journey filled with comfort, dignity, and hope. Click here to learn more about our residential-based services. 

 


 

 

You can’t be a caregiver and do what I’m doing without love.

When you truly love someone, you’ll bend over backwards for themin sickness and in health.” 

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