I am honored to be part of the inaugural Cynthia Goh Palliative Care Fellowship, established through the generous support of the Lien Foundation in partnership with the Asia Pacific Hospice Network (APHN). Being chosen for this program marks a meaningful milestone in my journey as a palliative care clinician. Over the two years, I have gained so much more than just knowledge; I’ve found a community of passionate, like-minded colleagues who share the same commitment to improving palliative care in our region.
What stands out most to me is the connections formed with the other four members of our group. We’ve built a bond rooted in a shared purpose, which is so important in our line of work—dealing with emotionally complex and ethically challenging situations. Our ongoing conversations and collaborative learning have created a sense of camaraderie that I believe will last beyond the fellowship. These friendships are a source of support and inspiration, helping us grow both personally and professionally, and they foster a spirit of collective strength that can positively influence our work in the wider community.
A big part of this fellowship has been leadership development, guided by the principles of servant leadership. Under the mentorship of Ms. Theresa Goh from 360 Dynamics Ltd, we received both team and individual coaching that emphasized leading through service—placing the needs of patients, families, and colleagues at the center of our work. This approach resonated deeply with me, encouraging us to harness our unique personality strengths to become more compassionate and effective leaders. The practical tools we learned aim to create a supportive and patient-centered environment, which is so crucial in palliative care where empathy, clear communication, and ethical decision-making are often tested. I feel empowered to bring these leadership skills back to my organization, confident that they will help foster a more compassionate and collaborative workplace.
Another vital aspect of the fellowship is our joint research project focused on “upstreaming” palliative care—finding ways to introduce palliative principles earlier in the course of illness. We’ve examined the barriers that prevent early integration and explored the factors that can facilitate it. The goal is to generate insights that can inform better policies, clinical pathways, and educational initiatives. This collaborative effort is not just about expanding our knowledge but also about creating real impact: improving access to palliative services and enhancing the quality of life for patients and their families facing difficult diagnoses. It’s inspiring to see how regional collaboration can produce practical solutions that benefit the wider community.
Networking is another pillar that amplifies the value of this fellowship. Through connections with the Asia Pacific Hospice Network and the European Association of Palliative Care, we’ve had opportunities to exchange ideas, share innovative practices, and learn from global experts. Participating in international conferences and initiatives expands our perspectives and opens doors for future collaborations. These global links foster a sense of shared purpose among healthcare professionals committed to alleviating suffering worldwide. The opportunity to be part of such a vast and compassionate network is both humbling and motivating.
Overall, this fellowship has been a profoundly enriching experience. It’s a journey that combines building meaningful relationships, developing leadership skills rooted in service, engaging in impactful research, and expanding our international networks. The ripple effect of these efforts is clear: more compassionate, effective, and accessible palliative care across the region. I believe this program doesn’t just make us better clinicians but also inspires us to be leaders who can drive meaningful change, not only within our organizations but across borders, ultimately benefiting countless patients and families.
Written by Dr Neo Han Yee (Cynthia Goh Palliative Care Fellow)