In early 2020, the team at Bright Vision Hospital (BVH) were gearing up for their inaugural charity walkathon – iWALK, to raise an ambitious $250,000 to help patients with their medical expenses. As a charitable community hospital, BVH mostly sees elderly patients with chronic conditions requiring long-term care and more than 60% of them from the low-income segment.

Unfortunately, in February 2020, their plans came to a screeching halt as the COVID-19 situation worsened. Determined to raise funds for a cause that is close to the hearts of BVH staff, the team went back to the drawing board.

As COVID-19 restrictions started to ease, the team decided to jump on the bandwagon of virtual sporting events and hold their inaugural walkathon virtually. Participants could choose from 3 distance challenges – 3km, 5km and 10km, complete it at their own pace and submit their distance within the event period. The organising team also injected a number of fun and engaging elements such as a photo contest, team challenges and a lucky draw.

Participants had fun exploring new tracks, visiting scenic parks, and posing for the iWALK photo contest. The best team clocked a combined distance of 1,416.33km and lucky winners walked away with some attractive prizes.

iWALK 2020 was the first virtual fundraising event organised by BVH and was a roaring success, raising over $338,000 in support of needy patients. The event saw 794 participants and 54 teams come together, covering 11,878 KM during the event period from 30 November to 6 December 2020.
 
The support and turnout for BVH’s inaugural virtual walk was heartwarming, especially in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. The overwhelming support from corporates, donors, participants, volunteers and staff is a testament to how we can make a difference to the lives of our patients beyond the hospital to the community. Donations raised through the event will enable BVH to continue helping patients receive the care they deserve.

If you would like to support BVH in their work, scan the QR code below or visit https://www.giving.sg/bright-vision-hospital to make a gift today!