Feature Articles
Stepping Forward When It Mattered
9 June 2026
What would you do if you saw someone bleeding and in need of help?
Vishakan and Farisha at Tampines Bus Interchange. Source: Public Transport Council
It started out as a regular day at Tampines Bus Interchange, but nursing student, Vishakan noticed that something was wrong.
Amid the usual flow of commuters, he saw a crowd surrounding an elderly man, who was clutching on to some tissue paper soaked in blood.
Blood had also pooled on the floor, and the bleeding did not seem to be slowing.
Putting their knowledge into actions
Upon noticing the injured commuter, Vishakan alerted Farisha, who is a fellow nursing student. The two of them quickly stepped in to help.
Knowing that I had the knowledge and means of being able to help, I could not resist nor ignore someone who needed help and assistance at that point.— Vishakan S/O Gunasekaran
After quickly assessing the severity of the injury, they sprang into action. Farisha rushed to alert Passenger Service Centre staff and requested a first-aid kit whilst Vishakan applied pressure to the wound and elevated the leg to slow the bleeding. Fortunately, Vishakan’s efforts had helped stop the bleeding.
Once the interchange staff arrived with the first-aid kit, Farisha and Vishakan irrigated the wound and applied a temporary dressing over it.
Even though fellow commuters offered to call for an ambulance for the elderly man, he declined and chose to head home.
Keeping a look out for commuters in need
Farisha was guiding a commuter to sit at the Priority Seats. Source: Public Transport Council
It is better to do something, anything, than to just stare while waiting for help to arrive.— Farisha Binte Mohammed Faries
For Farisha and Vishakan, the situation underscored the importance of staying attentive and stepping in when needed.
They learnt that one would never know what would happen until he/she steps forward and gives it a try.
Their actions remind us that we should look out for one another in public spaces. We can all turn distressing situations into moments of care by stepping forward to help.
Vishakan was giving directions to a commuter at the bus information board. Source: Public Transport Council
When you do good with kindness and sincerity, it always finds its way back one way or another.— Vishakan S/O Gunasekaran
Never hesitate to offer a helping hand and to try your best with what you’re confident in, even when in doubt.— Farisha Binte Mohammed Faries