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Caring SG commuters
In The Spotlight

Small Acts of Care That Make a Big Difference

27 September 2024

Meet Devdan, a young commuter diagnosed with Spinal Muscular Atrophy who navigates public transport using a customised wheelchair made to fit his needs.

A young boy in a wheelchair smiling at a bus stop as a green public bus pulls in behind him.

Devdan waits at the bus stop for his bus to arrive. Source: Public Transport Council

Meet Devdan Raj, a brave 5-year-old boy who was diagnosed with Type 2 Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) at birth, a rare condition that damages nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord, leading to progressive muscle weakness. Thanks to a groundbreaking treatment, Devdan's strength has improved and he can now manoeuvre confidently in his customised wheelchair, which has specialised functions that match the stage of his condition, allowing Devdan to travel independently.

Devdan and his family like taking public transport because of its convenience and inclusive features. On top of that, they also encounter fellow commuters who would show care towards Devdan. His mum, Shuwen, elaborates on these heartwarming experiences.

Once, they queued for the lift at the MRT station behind a family who has a child in a stroller. The father of the family, upon seeing Devdan in his wheelchair, volunteered to take the escalator instead, ensuring Devdan’s easy access to the lift. This caring gesture, especially from a fellow parent, deeply touched her. 

A collage showing a boy in a wheelchair navigating a sheltered walkway and waiting at a bus stop with a green bus nearby.

Devdan navigating public transport with his customised wheelchair. Source: Public Transport Council

On other occasions, it would be Shuwen who was shown care by fellow commuters.

For instance, Shuwen has to tilt Devdan’s wheelchair slightly to wheel it onboard a bus. The upward movement may cause the heavy and bulky wheelchair to roll backwards slightly. Whenever this happens, caring commuters would readily step forward to help stabilise the wheelchair.

Shuwen shares that she “greatly appreciates this act of care as it feels reassuring to have people looking out for me, and stepping forward to help, without me even having to ask.”

These small acts of care made a big difference in Devdan and Shuwen’s commutes. We can do the same to create a joyful and pleasant journey for other commuters by looking out and assisting those in need.