A pet accompanies a patient through life’s final chapter

In Uncle Wah’s final days, what he missed most was his beloved cat, Cindy. Medical staff spared no effort to make his last wish come true.

During terminally ill cancer patient Uncle Wah’s long stay in hospital, it wasn’t the fear of his condition that weighed on his mind but rather a tender and cherished bond with Cindy, his cat at home. To him, Cindy was more than just a pet. She was a member of the family and a source of warmth that comforted Uncle Wah’s heart amidst the ordinary days.

Cindy was a stray cat. About three years ago, Uncle Wah met Cindy on the street by chance. After bringing Cindy home, they became inseparable companions. Unfortunately, Uncle Wah was diagnosed with cancer. As his body became weaker, his time in the hospital lengthened, and returning home became a distant hope. A quiet whisper, “I really want to see Cindy one more time”, carried the weight of his final wish.

Upon learning of Uncle Wah’s wish, medical staff of the oncology ward at the United Christian Hospital (UCH) took the initiative to launch a interdepartmental wish-fulfillment plan. With support from hospital management, the medical teams and the Patient Relations Team planned every detail – from assessing Uncle Wah’s physical condition to verifying Cindy’s vaccination records and mapping out her entry and exit routes. Every step was meticulously handled to ensure a seamless process while adhering to hospital policies and infection control guidelines.

On a warm and sunny afternoon, Uncle Wah’s family brought Cindy to the hospital ward. When the fluffy Cindy was out of the cat carrier, a familiar scent led her to Uncle Wah’s side. Cindy then curled up comfortably in his arms. At that moment, time seemed to stand still. When Uncle Wah saw Cindy, the weariness on his face was replaced by a tender smile. He gently stroked Cindy with his fingers. The heartwarming reunion healed everyone there. The hospital also arranged for Uncle Wah’s family and Cindy to take a family photo, capturing the precious moment.

Uncle Wah’s family brought Cindy to the hospital ward in a cat carrier to bid a final farewell.

Uncle Wah’s family brought Cindy to the hospital ward in a cat carrier to bid a final farewell.

Uncle Wah’s family recalls, “dad was weak and enduring great pain at that time but he insisted on interacting with Cindy, wanting to spend a little more time and take one last look at her. He also instructed us how to take care of Cindy in the future. We are so touched and grateful for the thoughtful arrangements made by every department in the hospital. They helped dad fulfill his final wish, allowing him to leave without regrets.” The day after his reunion with Cindy, Uncle Wah passed away peacefully.

The Hospital Authority provides patient-centred service. Even as medical technology continues to advance, the care and warmth between patients and medical staff can never be replaced. The true value of medical staff is reflected in how they safeguard a patient’s final dignity with gentleness and respect. In the midst of our busy routines, a little more care and kindness can bring more warmth and a greater human touch to our hospitals.

Gentle Cindy quietly snuggles in Uncle Wah’s embrace.

Gentle Cindy quietly snuggles in Uncle Wah’s embrace.

The UCH captured the touching moment of Uncle Wah’s reunion with Cindy and also interviewed his family members and the medical staff from the oncology ward. Watch the short video to learn more.