Lee, who co-directed Project Crane 2023 agrees: “It reminds us to see each patient as a person and approach their health within the context of their individual lives. For instance, by considering how their occupations may put them at an increased risk of certain health issues.”
Lizwan agrees: “As you talk to the patient, you learn more things about him or her. You can find out more about their life, and maybe even personalise treatments for them.”
Liaising with the home to finalise the lesson content also made Lizwan realise how the learning needs for various populations differed. “One of the things which the girls were concerned about was their body image, so that prompted us to include topics relating to food and nutrition in our outreach,” he recalled.
Others like Tan, found their calling through participating in the project.
“It reminded me of how much I enjoy teaching and educating people,” said the pharmacist-turned-doctor, who aspires to be a future clinician-educator.
As Lizwan and Tan continue to pursue their careers in medicine as house officers, the project which their Class had initiated continues to flourish, with the latest cohort of students bringing it to children attending the School of the Deaf.
“I hope the project continues to touch many lives, and make an impact on the society,” said Lizwan. “Maybe one day, it might even win an award!"