Playing the symphony of life through the piano
During lunch hours at Trinity Block of Haven of Hope Hospital (HHH), beautiful melodies often resonate through the lobby. These notes flow from the hands of Patient Care Assistant Sally Ng So-ming. For the past six months, Sally has been playing the piano in the hospital at least three times a week. She often finishes her lunch in a hurry, brings her annotated sheet music, and sits at the piano to play hymns. Her clear and powerful music echoes into every corner of the building.
"I am just a beginner. I originally intended to practise here and never expected anyone to take notice," Sally says with a smile. Though she says her skills are not advanced, her determination is unwavering. Her music has attracted many ‘fans' to stop to listen. One of them, Dr Wong Tin-chiu, Associate Consultant in the Department of Medicine at HHH, remarks, "at first, Sally lacked confidence, but she is incredibly persistent, playing piano here rain or shine." Dr Wong often cheers her on, "even from a distance, I can feel her telling her story through music, expressing her gratitude for life and her faith."
Behind the music lies a profound personal journey. Over a year ago, a serious illness forced Sally to stop working. During the long days confined to bed, music became her sole pillar of support. "Only music could help me forget the pain and get through the darkest times." After recovering, she gained a new perspective on life, no longer wanted to run around for a living. She picked up her sheet music again, transforming her reflections on life into notes that nourish the souls of others in the hospital.
Music connects people and healing hearts
"The charm of music lies in its ability to connect different people," Sally recalls a time when a colleague was drawn to her music and stopped to listen. Although she was nervous, she invited him to try the piano, only to discover he was a master capable of playing Frédéric Chopin's classics. The two exchanged experience at the keyboard, sharing a deep mutual appreciation as kindred spirits brought together by music.
The piano has also brought comfort to patients and staff. A stroke patient once sang hymns with Sally and shared stories of the past, saying emotionally, "you are an angel sent from heaven. Your music has healed my life." For busy colleagues at the hospital, whether cleaning workers, clerks, security guards, or doctors, Sally's music gives them strength. Leung Yan-chi, Resident Physiotherapist at HHH, says, "the piano melodies are relaxing, allowing me to momentarily forget the heaviness of work and adding a touch of humanity to the hospital."
A final blessing to patient through music
Sally's most unforgettable experience was her first time serving as a pianist for a memorial service. A patient receiving palliative home care was nearing the end of life and wished for a Christian ceremony to mark his final journey. However, because he had not attended church for many years, he had no friends who could sing hymns. Colleagues from various departments spontaneously formed a choir, practising during their lunch breaks. Some even swapped shifts to attend the ceremony. And Sally was invited to play piano. Although most of them had never met the patient, their singing at the service provided immense comfort to the grieving family.
Looking ahead, Sally is collaborating with colleagues to form a band to sing hymns for hospitalised patients, warming every corner of the hospital with their sincere melodies.
