​

An enthusiastic team of SHP staff taking a group photo before embarking on the
24.4km MAD (Move Against Diabetes) hike across Singapore, to raise awareness for diabetes management

24.4 kilometres. 12 teams. 60 determined staff. One powerful cause.

On 9 November 2024, in conjunction with World Diabetes Day, 60 dedicated SingHealth Polyclinics (SHP) staff embarked on a purposeful journey, lacing up their shoes on an early Saturday morning for the 24.4km MAD (Move Against Diabetes) hike across Singapore to raise awareness for diabetes management.

MAD Hike, an annual fundraising initiative by SHP, was first conceptualised by our team of Physiotherapists in 2020 to celebrate Singapore 55^th National Day. The hike transitioned to a virtual format during the COVID-19 years and finally welcome back physical participation in 2024. Staff will sign up in groups to form teams and each team will complete the hike to raise funds to support our needy patients so that they can receive essential medical care, and to advocate for an active lifestyle.

Now in its fourth year, the MAD Hike 2024 kicked off at the Oasis Terraces, home to SHP-Punggol and participants trekked their way through some of our polyclinics, including SHP-Pasir Ris, SHP-Tampines North and SHP-Bedok, before the final pit stop at SHP-Eunos, as they traversed scenic routes including Lorong Halus Wetland and Bedok Reservoir. The event not only raised funds for the Gift of Family Fund (GoFF) - which supports healthcare innovation, research, advancement of family physicians, and patients with financial challenges - but also highlighted the importance of physical activity in managing diabetes.

SHP staff arrived at Oasis Terraces to collect their race packs and flags	Colleagues from different teams came together to take a we-fie before the hike began
The Clinical Services team donned their customised "One CS" caps for the event to show their team spirit	Some participants turned their backpacks into "walking billboards", with their donation posters attached to their bags

"The MAD Hike exemplifies our commitment to public health. It's not just about the distance covered, but about uniting the community to combat diabetes," Dr David Ng, CEO of SHP, emphasised at the event.

Dr David Ng, CEO of SHP extending a warm welcome to all participants before flagging off the event

Following Dr David's welcome speech, Ms Koh Shi En, physiotherapist from SHP-Pasir Ris, led the mass warm-up exercise with simple stretches and aerobic exercises to get everyone's hearts pumping and feet moving in preparation for the big walk.

Physiotherapist, Koh Shi En, leading the mass workout for participants before MAD Hike kickoff

Besides enduring the physical challenges of the hike, our participants were put to the test as they engaged in educational activities at three pit stops in different clinics, with activities simulating the challenges faced by individuals with diabetes:

• "Watch Your Eyes" at SHP-Pasir Ris: Highlighting possible visual impairments associated with diabetes. The game required team members to stand at one end of a table and roll two ping-pong balls into cups that were placed at the other end of the table, simulating the visual distortion and coordination challenges that diabetic patients may face in their daily lives.

Team "Pasir Racers" from SHP-Pasir Ris staying focused and determined to succeed	Team "Endurance Elites" from SHP-Eunos having a rolling good time

• "Glucose Goals Relay" at SHP-Tampines North: Demonstrating mobility issues faced by some diabetic patients. Participants had to partner in twos and threes, with their legs tied together to walk around a circuit.

A strong display of teamwork and coordination for SHP-Bedok's Team "Nature GPS"	SHP-Tampines' Team "TPP Mad Hype" and their superb coordination skills

• "Ups & Downs of Diabetes" at SHP-Bedok: An interactive game of Snakes & Ladders, which symbolises the ups and downs that diabetic patients face in their daily lives, and emphasises the importance of lifestyle choices in diabetes management.

"Nature GPS" from SHP-Bedok trying to toss a winning roll on their die	Team "Reverse 5.0" from SHP-Tampines moving towards the end point of the game

Beyond the fun and laughter, these activities educated participants about the daily challenges of living with diabetes, fostering empathy and understanding within the community.

After more than seven hours of sweat amidst the unpredictable rainy weather, all 12 groups of our 60 hikers arrived safely at SHP-Eunos.

MAD Hike 2024 participants celebrated their completion of the hike at SHP-Eunos

Despite feeling tired, the participants were filled with a strong sense of pride as they left with fostered camaraderie and unforgettable experiences that will leave a tangible impact. Mr Lee Ling Koon, Executive, Operations, expressed that the event was well-organised and he loved the team spirit. He exclaimed, "I got to know more colleagues from other polyclinics, and it was really a great exercise. The camaraderie was palpable as we helped to cheer one another on when we were tired!"

Following the hike, the fundraising campaign remained open until January 2025, with supporters contributing to their favourite teams' campaigns on Giving.sg.

Local sponsors, including Gardenia, Malaysia Dairy Industries, Murray Empire, and Ergoworks, bolstered the event's success, showcasing a united front against diabetes.

SHP extends its heartfelt gratitude to all participants, sponsors, and donors who have made the MAD Hike a resounding success. Their collective efforts have not only helped us raise funds for a good cause, but also enabled us to increase awareness about diabetes management. As we look to the future, SHP eagerly anticipates more inspiring MAD Hikes, continuing the journey towards better health for all.

If you are interested to support MAD Hike 2025, please email to [email protected].

Not yet subscribed to our e-Newsletter? Sign up here today!