Another patient's story

Humanity doesn't just exist within the great works of Mother Theresa or Princess Diana.
My patient (M),who is reaching the age of retirement, is a local school teacher with 2 lovely daughters.
She droved past a lane on a late night and saw a teenage girl crying by herself. Worried about her safety, M stopped her car and took her in. Ever since then, the girl is just like being part of M's family. M's daughters have no problems with her mom's decision to look after the abandoned teen.

The girl, who felt being uncared for previously, has grown up with a good job.

M has done a wonderful deed, at least, she did help the girl to stay out of trouble and it also gave her a chance towards a better future.

Paperwork

I've been quite busy nowadays that I hardly had the time to sit down and watched my favourite CSI.

Surprisingly, I got a call from Liz who is having a good time at work in ulu part of Queensland.

Smacking butt issue is undergo plan A which I'm not being able to disclose at this stage.

Wish me luck!

*****************************

MM medical centre in Singapore wants to employ me full time asap but they expect me to move back sooner and taking a pay cut of 50% offer.
*sigh* Sometimes I don't understand the mentality of the HR. If they think I'm well-qualified for the job, shouldn't they come up with better terms and conditions for the employment?
Very strange......

THANK YOU

To all my beauuutiful supporters.

Yes, unfortunately such incident has happened and pretty traumatising.
I'm handling it well....

Hopefully, the happy go lucky poddy will be back soon for a more uplifting entry.

Verdict on spanking issue

Boss can't take on any sides after listening to LV's and my story. According to de boss, LV explained that I was misleading him at the clinical work place and thus , he felt it was ok to spank my butt. What's more disgusting other than LV accused me of grabbing my arse first. Trying to be impartial or rather clean his hands off the case, Boss suggested to me to confront LV's evil actions and asked for an apology from him.
On a brighter note, I didn't realise if I'm actually capable to mislead a guy by just working with him at the clinic for half a day per week only.

I was soooo furious to the max after listening to his stupid suggestion. In other words, if I'm being raped, I gotta confront the rapist's desirable actions was wrong? As you can see, my boss has a terribly low EQ. Well, I didn't know it was that low.

I kept numb to his response. Boss suddenly just flare up his temper and asked what the hell I want.
OMG OMG,I was thinking to myself that how can you ask your co-worker what to do if she has been traumatised. Again, that clearly demonstrated his poor managerial skills and superbly low EQ level.

I'm not ashamed to say that I broke down afterwards. I even had to lie to patients that I had a bad cold.

He did apologise that he shouldn't raise his voice at me (geez, shouldn't I be the one doing it at him?) at the end of day.
Slowly, he began to list down the number of 'good' things he had done for me previously. Basically he wants me to give him some credits on that and possibly easing off such sexual harassement issue.
LOOK, I never ask for those frigging help. If he chooses to help me , then he should offer it with all his heart graciously. He commented that he doesn't feel appreciated after helping me so much.CCB. What ashamed to call himself a christian.

I regard this as a serious sexual harrasement issue at the workplace and I've stopped working on those days which LV is on. In other words, my regular clients will not be able to come on those usual days as I'll not be around. This is such a disappointments to all my ah pohs and ah peks. For the sake of my dignity and pride, I need to do the right thing for myself this time.

I'll not put an end to such issue even though I know that I am putting myself at risk of losing the job.

Perks being a Pod

The best part being a foot professional is to get a chance to mingle with the shoe representatives. After the mingling business is over, the shoe reps are quite happy to give me a new pair of latest sports footwear and test out.Now how good it that. And of course, I also must be convince that the footwear will be suitable for my fellow clients based on their needs.
What's more, I'm able to get shoes at a cheaper rate than compare to those public paying the retail prices. WOOHOO*
I got so many shoes now and my mom will be here tomorrow. I bet that's the first thing she will scream at me for having a 'mini' shoe warehouse.


Free shoes leh.

So pissed so stressed

Wow, what a fufilling day at work I must say.

Event 1: Stay away from Mr LV. He DID spank my butt (to be exact, it's somewhere between the waist and upper aspect of gluteal muscles). IF he ever tries to be funny, I hope someone will bite his fingers off or a psycho patient who turns violent and cut his fingers off with the scalpel blade.Fug him to the core.

Event 2: I called this pt ' No panty Ah poh '( elderly lady). Each time when she comes in to the practice, she has removed all trousers and full length leggings without any underwear on.
Maybe she is really old and can't be bothered. Because of that,15 out of 30 minutes consultation time are spent on dressing on and off. I've repeatedly told her to put know short stockings in the next visit and reinforce the advice to the daughter in law as well. Hopefully this will be the last 'nagging' .*roooar*
In fact, I was late for a nail surgery because of her.

*************
Unwind after work:

Had a vietnamese steamed rice vermicelli with grilled pork and a Venezuela Dark choc drink from Max Brennan.

Patient says (part 2)


This 88yo Ah pek (old man) asked me if I am married.

Me: "no"

Ah pek: " wonder who will the lucky dude that will win your heart."

Me:" you bet. We shall see."


Whoa, nowadays got so many patients singing praises on me. Now, that's a good thing.
Funny that sometimes I do feel like a celebrity as they often like to ask questions about my personal side.

**************************
Bonous 'kaopeh' entry

There are two housechores which I hate doing the most.

Ironing and washing dishes.

I can iron like a stack of clothes within 30mins.Basically I just wanted to get it done and over.

Dishwasher will be the perfect gift on my wedding (that is, if I get a chance to marry).

Patient says

One elderly auntie came in today for her follow up. While I was setting up with the instruments, she went saying like this:" what's this pretty young lady like you doing here treating old ladies' feet?"


I just grinned :)

Guy buddies

I've got a bunch of really nice lovely guy friends. They treat me as a lady with respect, take me out to nice dinners, play pools, watch movies and we can pour sorrows to one another without afraid being judged.
Ok that's all cool.
However, ever since certain dudes start to get attached, they begin to act lan-lan. All of a sudden, they seem to be vanished into thin air. Instead, they seems to opt to 'disconnect' communication with me. So CB. They better don't come crying to me if they breakup OR invite me for the wedding out of the blue coz I will show them back my lan lan face with an (limited amount) ang pow.

So far, KH is the most consistent ;D Seeeee, I praise u for the good effort. Of course there are few more who deserve to be mentioned.

It doesn't hurt to keep in touch with your friends once in awhile.Yes, even if it's just a few exchanged sentences just to keep the communication going.
I always believe true friends will remain with me for life no matter what happens.

********************************
I may get a new job next Feb for a short period of time only. Benny may be coming to Perth to study.He is approaching me to be his uni nanny. Means in terms of helping him to get settled down like finding accomodation, purchasing a car and so on.
He is willing to pay for my accomodation, entertainment fees, flight from Syd to help him out.

heh heh. That is if he has been confirmed to be accepted into the uni.

Huuuump Day


This week seems to be exceptionally slow. I yearn for the weekend to come but shucks! I'm working this Sat.Why I am doing this to myself :(
All I need is a holiday or some form of relaxation indulgence.
I tried booking a mini spa package with Jurelique for next week but the lady said the therapist will be away for 2 weeks. knn* of all the frigging dates.
For a moment, I miss those good times I have shared with my friends in Perth like going out for late night movies, dinner, coffee sessions, BBQ in the parks (see pic).
*tmd, cannot upload-ROAAAAAAARRRRRRRRRR

Not happy hump day.

Hot Stuff !

When you feel the world is so lonely and has deserted you, 3 invitations started pumping in via MSN or SMS asking me out on the same day.
Pout lips*
Ms M asked me to go shopping but I had to reject as Jan is flying in from Sg tomorrow! Woohoo! I can't wait for that copy of Straits Times which I hope she won't forget to bring!
So just when I thought I was gonna settle down with Jan till the evening, a SMS message started to beep.
Ms M2 is another friend from Sg who will be flying off on Sat afternoon.
OKAY!!
That's almost like triple 'dates' in a day.

Happening mama.........

************************************************
Bonous entry: Mackers

Mackers as being called by most aussies here for Macdonalds.
L and myself decided to walk to the local Macker's cafe for a coffee and catch up.
I am amazed by the number of parents bringing their children to have mackers for dinner.It's not a sin to eat Mackers but as a parent, there is always a limitation for your child towards eating junk food. Everyone of us would know eating excessive fastfood is most likely getting onto the path of developing heart diseases, clogged ateries with large amount of fatty plaques, high blood pressure, obesity and diabetes....etc.
The shocking conversation which we've heard across the table between the dad and his son went like this:

Son: Dad, can I have a second cheeseburger?

(L and me stunned with our eyes wide open)

Dad: Sure son. Here's some money to go and get it yourself.

my indulgence

Period Sux


...because I get a range of signs and symptoms (particularly on the 1st day) of tummyache, nausea, headache, backache, lethargic...............so moody of me.

I love Panadol and my Lavender rub and the good old Tiger balm.

Loose and not -so- sexy pants

I hate wearing baggy pants. So 'unglam'..... no wonder I always feel I've got nothing to wear as most of my clothes just don't fit as they used to be. I have put away 3 pants and some sweaters aside. boohoo* and they are my favourite work clothes.
*hint: shopping spree to be continued this weekend


On the lighter note, I am not dieting. Basically just healthy eating and aiming at gym 3 times a week.

********************************

The GP advised a patient of mine to use a hairdryer to dry up his ingrown toenail post surgical wound site.

Is that something new which I didn't know of??

Hmmm....interesting............

*WARNING! -Not for the ones with fainted heart








Thanks to someone (Miss Senior), I am able to optimise my surgical skills on this difficult case of ingrown toenail.
Miss Senior described on this fella's toe as 'fairly chronic' .........Which brought to my attention that isn't chronic means chronic? If you want to describe the toe as less chronic , she can use the word 'mild' instead.
Sad thing is that Ms Senior continued her conservative regime for the last 6 months till the patient got totally disheartened with the treatment.

In addition, patient's pain suffering could have been shortened if Miss Senior offered the surgical option.
Wait, she did offer the option but never bother to describe the way on how is it done.

It only took me 40mins to complete the minor surgery. Patient came in 3 days later for a re-dress on his post operative site and never felt soo much better.

Patient announced that" at last, i'm pain free....... but not for the last 6 months." Note that after surgery, the pain was so minimal for him that he hasn't taken any panadols at all.

my friend got the 'nail' preserved for showcase

Make up or Break up?

Last Saturday, I enrolled myself into an hour makeup crash course by Lancome in the city. M.Brown was the international makeup guru for Lancome and I was quite delighted to have a better understanding about colour blending, texture of the products, brushes, latest product innovations etc... And I've managed to secure a free makeover which I've never had it done before. What's more, I've got a free goodie pack of lancome samples, minature perfume (Tresor), and a mascara. Oh not forgetting a free latest edition of Cosmopolitan mag.

There are a lot of perceptions about girls on makeup. Some like it over the top and some rather not like it. To me, make up is just like another form of art. Some people prefer to express theartform on the canvas, some prefer on the faces. Make up gives me the freedom to be creative with colours on face. However, it would be quite unfair for someone to say that makeup is for vain girls only, especially when that someone doesn't know anything about it.
Ok, it's partly true that girls who make up wanna look bootiful.What the heck!
There could be also reasons like a bit of colour on face can help to improve self esteem ( this can be applied to people with facial scarring or unslightly marks) ; helps to build up the confident ( makeup can act like 'oumph'- u know whaddya mean!).
What the Lancome guru had also commented that to put on a perfect makeup , the end result is to look as if there's 'no' make up. In other words, it has to look 'natural' in regardless what colours you have applied. In other other words, it also indicated that the end result is not something that make the eyes sore looking at it.
Hope I'm making some senses here. heh heh.To be skillful in makeup is never easy and certainly requires a lot of time to improve the techniques on it.

Freebies show down!

Sexy eyes can tell a story

Receptionist Blues

She doesn't sound too friendly the moment I've stepped into the clinic. No smiling face or greetings exchanged. I suspect maybe her PMS thingy or crashed with hubby prior work. One of my patients didn't turn up for her appointment and I rang her up.
Mrs B was upset that there was no reminder call for her at all. Usually, the receptionist will give a reminder call to all patients prior the actual date for confirmation. Afterwards, I let the receptionist know what exactly has happened.
SHE was sooooo infuriated saying that Mrs B should remember the details and that she gave patients a reminder call is just out of courtesy.
Think her brain must have been haywired (or sot sot). I noticed that there were ticks on all the patients' names except for Mrs B. I reckon she must have missed out Mrs B on her reminder notice.

Last week, receptionist pulled out a wrong file for a patient.*tsk tsk*


I feel like screaming at her.......

I miss home

This is probably the 6th year that I've missed watching a National day parade. As far I can recall, it is always pleasant to remind me of someone whom we've watched 'live' parade at the stadium in 2000. Under the fireworks, me sipping the Yeo's chrysanthenam(?spell) while he sang along with a tumberine(spell?) on one hand. It was a magnificent night with spectacular performances by all races of fellow Singaporeans. Indeed, one nation one Singapore.


****************************

Do you know?

Bus fares in Sydney are to be paid via cash or card. No Ezlink system and that's really sad.
I was running late for my Lancome makeup class in City. When I got to the bus stop, the transport just arrived. I fumbled my wallet that I've got only a fifty dollar and a five dollar notes. The bus drive refused to accept my 5o note for a return ticket which cost like $10.80. So I have used the $5note for just one way. Afterwards, he said I cannot produce a 50 note next time to pay my fare.
Knn....... The next passenger after me paid for his ticket and had his change roll off the bus steps.
Can someone imagine how difficult can it be for an elderly to go down the steps and pick up the change? There's no coin box for your deposit. One has to hand over the cash by hand to the driver. Friggin time consuming I must say.


On the lighter note, I'll be going for a lancome makeover next Sat. Very exciting!!

Jiang3 Hao3 de4 ying1 wen2(Speak good English)

No doubt the singapore government is spending the taxpayer's money on promoting 'speak good English campaign', it does potray a necessity to bring on the such awareness.
People should not get confused that it is rather trying to promote that Singaporeans should speak English with an accent/twang into it. For as long as one is able to bring on the message in a clearly pronounced wordings and well-structured sentences, that's probably all you need on that.
Just a little something to share on my 'English experience':
English has been my worst subjects since Primary 5. Partly because I hate the English teacher and she hates me too. That's what I gathered as a 11 year old school girl. From then onwards, I stopped reading and practising on my oral tests. Until my PSLE, I thought I was going to fail my English indefinitely coz I suffered from a bad case of sore throat on the day of English oral exam.
I was on the verge of breaking down and hate to think that for sure I'll get penalised heavily for not saying those words correctly.
Eventually, I got a 'C' and 'As' for rest of subjects. What can I say as I've tried my best.

First day of Uni was abit of catch 22. I found myself surrounded by a whole bunch of ozzies.Then you start to realise that the importance of communicating good and unstandable English to your fellow mates. Otherwise, you will find yourself being' isolated' in another world. At this point, I'm glad Singapore has made English as the first language. Most Ozzies are so surprised that we do learn English and we've learnt it well!

I don't condemn Singlish. After all, it is one of the significant 'signs' of Singapore culture. or trademark perhaps.

There is always a time for Singlish, a time for proper English.

*note: my ending is abit abrupt on this entry as my eyes are closing -_-

How would you teach your students?

As a responsible practitioner working in a busy public hospital, I need to ensure patients will be seen and treated on time. Of course, they must be happy with the treatment provided too. Who would like a crappy job done on their feet after all??
2 final -year students arrived last morning to start their 10 weeks stint placement at the hospital.
After assessing the student's progress on my first client, I doubt the student wasn't engaging good techniques , for instance, using the nail clippers or scalpels.
From then onwards, I preferred to sit in and guide as they go along during the treatment period.

BUT, I got a remark from this acting manager. She felt that I shouldn't be protective of the students and instead, I should leave my clients to them. My responsibility is to check their work after treatment provided afterwards. She reassured that I should be enjoying a cuppa tea and relax at one corner.

What's worst,she told the students to take their time on the treatment!? Firstly,this is public sector. If we don't keep track of timing on each patients, all of us will have to end up going late without OT pay. Somehow , the students have to buck up a lot quicker than expected then. I can't wait for a student just to cut someone's nails for 40mins.

I wanted to give a good spanking to this third year student. He wrote :" callous reduced on plantar surface of feet."

Callous means a word that describes on a person who is insensible, hardening, apathetic.

Yes, I am saying that it should be 'callus' -D'oh!

Thinking

Damn, can't upload the pic. Neber mind....
Dessert night out tomorrow with some gfs. Perhaps I can post some pics of hot babes eating like choc puddings? heh heh

***************

I got offered a job in Sg. However, they expect me to start at the lowest ranking despite I've got quite a fair amount of experiences. Giving me a wage of almost 40% paycut as compared from my current work.
How on earth someone who is with well-experienced and well qualified in double skilled professions deserve a lousy pay??

I think only people who are totally out of their mind will accept such deal.

Human resource people - are they actually being resourceful enough?
It appears to me that they are trying to get the best of local talents to do the work and yet wanting to be cost effective at the same time.


There's this chinese saying goes like this: what you pay for a one cent you will only be entitled one cent 's worth of goods.

Negotiating in progess......

What I need.......

Is a good haircut. The hair ends are drying and the waves has been abit on the unmanageble side. I miss my beloved hairstylist brudder who always pay attention to my needs on hairstyling. Quite often, we often enjoy a good o bitchin' session while he fiddles moi hair. heh heh.

********************

Mr CB has forgotten to bring his wallet while we are out for lunch. Obviously I had to pay for his share. When we got back to the workplace, he handed over a cheque to me saying that's on his treat. Whatever, means I have to squeese time out to deposit cheque. So irritating p*g.

********************

I just watched the movie "Behind the lines(or lies?-can't remember for now) starring Owen Wilson. Now I can't sleep. Each time when I watched too much of action packed movies, my mind just can't settle down on rest mode.

********************

Keeping my fingers crossed everyday that Israel and Hizbollah groups will stop exchanging fires .Those poor children not only getting hurt by the bombs, simply just imagine what sort of up bringing will these kids in near future. Their childhood have been scarred by those horrible images of war. News on TV once showed a group of old folks who were too afraid to evacuate out of their nursing home. A few of the staffs , who were supposed to care for the folks, become emotionally traumatised. You can see from their expressions like as if they were hallucinating. My suggestion is that the head of each opposing group should have a fair fight in a wrestling ring. In that case, the fight will be fair and justice. What's more, no civilians will be getting hurt unlike in a warzone. Sometimes I can't believe that war does occur even though we are living in a modernised world.

Just a note

My beloved sponsored kiddo from Tanzania will be turning 8 in another few months' time.
I've signed a card and a little memo booklet that contained an Australia map with pictures of native animals.

New Love

Nowdays I've developed a keen interest in looking at antique medical/surgical sets. According to this website ( click me), the surgical sets are worth collecting are mainly prior 1900s or the Civil War era. Got soo many nice but gruesome looking blades, forceps and chisels pictures. Think I'll just check it out more tomorrow.

Sian! I've developed a few sunspots that looks like little moles on your face. One of them happened to be a few cms away from the corner of my mouth. Grrrr* And a few light brown spots on my nosie.
can't wait to see Jan to get my whitening source by Sk2. Yes, I've been constantly using SPF50+ everyday even during winter.
Sun is far too harsh here even when driving, I simply can't leave without my sunnies.
Buggered the sun.

(sapporo beer, but I love Hoeegarden more)

YAaaaaaaaaaaaaaaM SENG!

Hang on a minute. Before any readers start getting excited, I am not here to announce my big W-day. Judging from my MSN messages (the ones which you typed beside your nicks), love is sure in the air and everyone seems to be getting married. This is one of the 'phenomenons' when you reached in your late 20s or early 30s, tying a knot with your beloved one appeared to be the most 'natural' thing to do.

In Australia, couples who have lived together for about (i think) 2 years and not married are considered as de facto status. Something which I don't understand this part of the culture is the de facto couple can cohabit for a number of years together , not engaged and having kids eventually. Isn't that defeat the purpose of marriage? Or are the marriage vows scaring off the committed phobic ones? Perhaps the perception of marriage has been changed for many others. In this insane world that we are living, people are becoming less committed/less faithful and thus resulting in high divorce rates. People are more selective of what they want for themselves rather than compromising or respecting their partners' opinions.

Okay, this book arrived in my mail few days ago from Lizzy. What a great gift for err...soon-to-be-bride.Nonethelss, I did enjoy reading it and at least, I know what sort of organization needed to be done prior the big day. hurhur. My wedding fantasy is to have it in a castle in Europe and then we'll proceed to our honeymoon to New York to watch a game of NBA in Madison Square Garden.

Was chatting with a friend from UK earlier on. After bitching about guys for the past 8 years, finally she is getting hooked up with her man in September. The strange thing is his family has known her family for the past 20 years!Holy Moly! Oh she gave me this website and I am passing this on good will:Planning a wedding?

What a morning!

I remembered I've cleaned up the clinic room before I left the place last Friday. See this is what I get the first thing on a Monday morning. Obviously someone must have used the room on a Saturday and yet made a big mess on the trolley. What a CCB!* (note: another fella works on Sat morning).

Neber mind..-_-

Sweet and heart warming?That box of choc is from my beloved patient. She just wanted to show her appreciation of the things that I've done for her.Now there is a story behind the choc box. As you see, Mrs B has left her walking stick behind in the clinic while she was helped to get into the cab by a taxi driver. And I know that I wouldn't get home till past 6 in the evening. I asked Mr CB (remember him from the previous post?) for a favour to send the stick to Mrs B's house since he finished like 3 or 4pm. He simply refused to do it! At that mo, I was utterly disappointed that how can i work for a- not- so -empathic boss. Mrs B is on TED stockings (as a deep vein thrombosis prevention) plus poor unstable gait. Perhaps everyone is different. He sure has the right to reject my favour but that will create a lousy impression of Mr CB on my blains .Too bad for him.

Sydney Sux

There were a few things which annoyed me yesterday working at a local hospital. These 'irritants' have made me to conclude that Syd, afterall, isn't a nice place to live . Some patients are truly 'racists'. For a start, they'll often judge by saying:" So are you from some china places or Malaysia." Up to this stage, no one is able to tell that I am from Sg. Then they go on like " you see, the way you speak is different from us."
*fug la, obviously I wasn't born in Oz so don't expect me to speak like the ' maate' here. MY fellow colleague always resent to the reason that the patients doesn't like me and therefore they begin to whinge or throw tantrums at me whenever they feel like it.
Scolding the patients 'Cheeb**' doesn't help neither.Or rather, maybe I should remind them constantly that their feet is at the mercy of my scalpel. *evil grins* If they start to misbehave, I'll slice off their toes one by one.....

Oh, can you believe that a carer was soo rude. In order to catch hold of my attention, she went like 'psss, pssss, excuse me nurse."
On my mind, I was thinking 'hello carer, you have been here multiple times already and what makes you think that I am a nurse. NO nurse here is able to do the feet okay.'
*roar*

*roar*

*roar*

Sydney traffic has one of the worst drivers that no one can ever imagine. They don't signal at roundabouts. They often tail gate you behind in regardless that you hate the idea of speeding. They speed so often and I was wondering if the speed cameras are also checked for JCIA purpose. Once i saw this almost collapsing traffic post in the middle of the road.It was fenced around with an orange luminous barrier. A week later driving past the road, the collapsing traffic light post is still there?!? Does the traffic peronnel consider the danger of leaving this semi collapsing traffic light post at all? Sydney also has one of the most expensive parking fees that I've ever come across. A very good example is paying $32AUD a day at Hilton Hotel parking.Sounds more like a rip-off.

Singapore Ole Part 2

My dad took the whole family to Raffles Town Club to have this awesome oriental buffet dinner. Approx. SGD 15 per head only. Thank goodness I was wearing a not- so- tight sundress that day. heh heh heh. See, this is the sort of thing I missed when I'm in Oz. Family dinner.

In fact, prior coming to Oz to study, I must admit I was having a wonderful life in Sg which there's nothing I can complain about. Having a car to drive around, wonderful friends whom I can hang out with in terms of doing sports or parteee, going to swimming at the fort canning club or Raffles Town Club- everything seems so perfect except for work.

In order to secure a better job with a much decent pay, I know I had to upgrade myself sooner or later. Hence, I discussed the possible options of overseas studying with my Dad. The other option was to fly with erm..SQ to earn some bling for a couple of years before studying. Glad I didn't end up in flying in a way that I can , at least, concentrate to build up my career path right now. Isn't it better off that I am working shorter hours with good pay plus weekends off?

Met up with my buddy, KH. He took me to Essential Brew at Holland V.That's Smiley fries we were having ;D

I used to drive this car almost 8 years ago and now it has been 'zhun' (modified) by my bro.
The hand wheel brand called mico and luminous glowing blue light that encompasses the perimeter of the mirror were both imported from JB. Alloy wheels were added too. Hao beng uh!!!!
This pic was taken while we were on our way to send cousins back to JB bustop in Bugis area.

Freaky patient

I had a strange encounter with this 88 yo patient. I reckon she is either partly demented or suffering from early stage of Alzheimer's disease.
She kept on repeating over and over the same thing at least 3 times in a row.
That's not the main part, she told me some utterly FREAKY history of hers.

" Oh I used to work in a funeral palour and I had the to cut the dead people's nail neat and tidy"
- OMG! why she had to tell me this!!! My hair stands up vertically right after she said that.

" I also know some of the people used to steal wedding rings of the dead and kept in the pocket"
- Can you imagine what's my reaction after I've heard this? Expression-less.

*clips her nails in the speed of light*

"I also have worked in a house as a cleaner. You know the lady boss was so disgusting that she even threw her period pads anywhere she likes"
- I am totally horrified,pertified, disguested,shocked, even felt a hint of faintness......thank goodness there wasn't many patients around.

Seriously, I can't even stand any minute longer with her anymore.

Perhaps I should get unwind with a few jugs of beers over this weekend:

Orchard Road - How can I not miss it?

I can't help but taking this boy in a pink sexy outfit. I don't find good bargains on great singapore sale leh.

Kopitiam - I love the atomosphere of eating breakfast here.

Near Rochor centre , these ah peks were having 'live' karaoke concert.Si beh happening.

This little girl is so smart. She's helping dad tendering the business by selling tapioca cakes. However, I've to remind her to take the money. Heh heh.



Singapore Ole Part 1

Nothing feels like home until the plane has touched down at Changi Airport. The moment I've been waiting for has finally arrived.My heart is filled with so much excitment and definitely looking forward to catch up with my beloved friends again. BBQ stingray was the first meal I wanted to eat most once I've arrived. Sat and Sun were spent resting at home due to gastric flu. Knn! I've missed out 2 days of local food.
Neberrr mind.

I've managed to cheong (explore) several places such as Tampines Mall, chinatown, the newly renovated marina square, Suntec, Orchard...etc.

My legs were so aching after walking for quite a distance. Sometimes I also wonder how can the girls doll up themselves and walking around in their high heel shoes on shopping spree. Living in such a place with high humidity, my best outfit would be a singlet and skirt plus my red Havanias thongs (not the one u wear as your underwear pls).There are so many 'perverted' uncles around in kopitiam and MRT. I hate being stared at. That's why I refrain myself wearing anything that's abit 'low-cut'. Maybe I should use a scarf to wrap my neck around as well.
I was wondering if the prices of Gucci bags have dropped tremedously as I've seen so many girlies carrying it.

It's ashamed that I've not meet up with a lot of other friends for this trip. -_-.

End of travel


My flight has been confirmed. Time to move back to my secluded dungeon of living(-ulu place.) It has been a good holi holi break for me. Having a bit of mixed feelings now -_- Sniff sniff*
For the past a couple of weeks, I've been working and meeting endless group of friends.
Did night rollerblading till 1 am, eating Ponggol lasi lemak at 4am, party till 4am and attended dental at 8am the next day.
More in details coming soon......

Home : de best place to live

I got so many activities lining up for meee.

Am such a busy lady ;p

Very excited..kekeke

The last thing I hope for is I don't get to quarrel with my dad prior departure to Oz.
As far as I can recall, there wasn't a time that I can leave for my flight with a peace of mind.
Maybe I should also get a bottle of essential lavender oil to calm down myself first.

Lunch deal

Ok, this Mr CB's super persistent. Finally I gave in and went to ate Dim Sim with him. Free leh!
It's not saying that I am really cheapskate but it's to think on a positive manner.
Why is Mr CB so boring to the point that he has nothing to chat except for the feet.
gosh* you know how hard to swallow those har gaos (shrimp dumpling) when you talk about gross stuffs which is not very helpful during lunch time.
Why he likes to think that I looked so bored to him? I'm not a hollywood star wot.

Sometimes all I need when not seeing the patients is to have a cuppa tea and read some magazines. So stop de fug asking me why I looked bored to u. Basically it's none of your business.

UH oh...

I've not spoken to Mr CB unless it's really necessary. I just wanna stay focus and do my work well.

The most worrying bit is that he has been trying to ask me out for lunch.

I feel somewhat a feeling of deja vu........ eeeeeee

Scottish highlight

Over the last few Saturdays, I attended a small Scots fund raising gathering with the ability to savour some of the local dishes (eg, haggis -yeeeeeew) and learning the Scottish folklore dance called "Ceilidh" (pronouced as Kei-li) . The rapid hopping movement with arms interlocking twirls with your partner can be quite exhaustive. Sure a high calorie burner activity. Everyone dashed for IRU BRN (scots fizzy drink) at the end of it. Damn, I should have put on my tartan skirt...

Eat first, dance later

Here we go with the dance. I got no partner or no one wanna dance with me. So I took pics

Black pudding : also a mix of internal mash organs of * i think* pig/chicken/lamb. But it's still taste nice like a typical sausage roll.

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I wanna whinge more! I don't why if I am being too polite or too modest, I am not game enough to tell bozz's wifey off that stop calling me by "EH!"

She's just so rude and I don't when I am gonna explode her on this :" My name is CC, and it's not EH."

She is testing my patience.......

Ignorance is not a bliss

Fellow country woman has been busy with family committment and finally, she gets to see a foot practitioner when she was here to visit her daughter.

"My heels have been hurting for quite some time." Obviously with the mountaineous of callus built up and plus the fact that she doesn't wear shoes at all, it's going to make it worst. By the way, this pair of feet doesn't belong to an indigenous Ozzie and yes it's white ang moh's.

So I cut cut cut, chop chop chop the skin. At least, the heels are beautiful again. When a person gets crack heels, it is because the skin has loses its tensile strength. As long as there is excessive weightbear/friction going on, the skin will start to split.Regular foot moisturiser and filing may help with the maintainence. Also not forgetting to visit your favourite foot clinic on a regular basis.

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Update: The hospital gave an 'ok' for me to do another extra day of work. Hence I'll be spending less time with the 'irritant' at work. Woohoo. It's sure a sign , Uncle Oz!

Whine of the day


It was a total mistake eating with Mr CB for lunch today. Mr CB is my superior at the work place and he has been an absolute prick for now.
As it seemed there wasn't any topics for us to chat in common during the meal time, he suddenly brought up my poor capability of giving correct diagnosis to the patient. He used the word 'crap diagnosis'. I was infuriated with his statement. I admit that I'm not quite a well-experienced enough clinician but that doesn't stop me from asking him questions whenever I'm in doubt.
He concluded that the questions which I've asked him previously demonstrated my poor understanding of foot ailments.
On vice versa, isn't he supposed to encourage the juniors to ask questions so that everyone may get to learn something out of it.
He is selfish......and very contradicting. I remember when I first started in the clinic, he always reinforce that "I can ask him any questions at any time."
Perhaps not anymore. He's just being inconsistent in his words all the time.
Scenerio 1: When I first came over to work, he offered me to put up at his place till I found a suitable accomodation. Who knows prior the departure, he said I have to leave within 5 days after staying. Geez, I got panic and managed to rent a room at the very last minute (in regardless I hate the room) See how he likes to twist his words around.

Scenerio2: I got a young patient who came in with pain on his right heel. So he asked how would you tell the parents about the patient's condition.
As I would rather not chat about work during lunch, I simply told him that i'll put it down in layman's term that it's due to the pulling of archilles tendon on immature bone.
And he kept on insisted that I should say 'growth plate' than 'immature bone'.
KNN, don't know what his fugging problem.
My objective is to relate patient's condition in a short and simplified manner also cannot meh?

From now onwards, I better think twice before asking him anything.

Scenerio 3: Mr CB appears to have a habit of commenting my accent. He is an Asian but yet doesn't know how to speak Mandarin-more like broken Mandarin.Shame on the chinese fellow.
He just laughed at my pronouciation.Seriously, do it once or twice, I can take it as just a sense of humour. If such matter gets OTT, I'm beginning to feel super annoyed. I am not born in ang moh country and for fug sake, I can't talked properly whenever I'm eating.
Yes, he DOES correct me even when my mouth is full of food and hence, I can't talk properly!
That is like a real problem to him.


I got a moment of rush to quit the very next day.
Never mind, I asked the Gothic hello kitty to give him bad dreams.*hmph*

KOKODA

Picture abstract from: Click here

I caught this film "kokoda" last Tuesday. I think such military action packed movie caused me to have almost a sleepless night after watching it.
Kokoda is an Australian production film that demonstrates during the WW II in 1942, the Australians fought against the Japanese invasion in Papua New Guinea and thus prevent the capture of Port Moresby. Should the Japanese stabilised military bases at Port Moresby, it would provide a more condusive route to attack Australia mainland.
I shall not blabber too much about the history.

The highlight of this blog is that I treated a war veteran's feet recently and he did went to the war in Kokoda for 4 years. Here's the summary of what he told me:

" When I was in PNG, I was working as a signaller. Means I have to set up the telephone wires for the communications to take place. As I've worked as a solictor before that, they (the oz army) wanted me to take care of the defence matters. But I think I've sat down and study a lot on my butt throughout law school, I told them I want to do something more 'outdoorsy'. The army sent me for a course and there I was, setting up wires. The worst thing about being in PNG is when it started to rain,it's like a bath tub of water fallen onto your head. When the lightning strike, it stuffed up the wires and to the extent that the telephone will melt! The rain will loose up the soil and trees often fell off with a thunderous thud! Hence, the wires will be messed up.
Whenever the army flight dropped off the food rations, they will just drop it off at any zones they like; just in case the plane was discovered by the enemy and got shot down. So we saw the plane, we'll need to get on our feet to start to look for the ration packages. I remember there was once they dropped off a barrel of dried mutton. By the time we retreived it, it was full of maggots.ometimes it can also take about a week to find those ration. We still have to cook and eat it, pretending its mutton only."

Mr War veteran is still going on strong at the age of 90......no problem with hearing ;)

Status, money and career

These are the factors driven by most people in Singapore. Kids have to be sent to one of the top schools starting from kindy or primary level. If your kid's school is not ranked among the top 5, it can be viewed like ' your child is no brainer'. Wah, I came from' ah lian' (where most kids manifests its own problems secondary school. I wonder that does that make me of... ...
Recently I've got this acquitance on MSN whose message is so status driven. Must have the latest phone model, next must have platinum card, must get a house soon. He was telling me that his monthly income is about 3k+ SGD and he is able to save 2k a month. Obviously, he is still living with his parents.Oh did i say he was quite a proud owner of a brand new Nissan car. Please lor, there are brand new cars everywhere in Singapore. By the way, how can people like his salary be able to earn for a platinum card. He should have read the terms and conditions more closely;p
*sigh* Rather hoping that my future bf will meet the 5Cs, I would prefer that he is a great listener, has a motivated mindset, skilled worker and we can stay in a small apartment-simple lifestyle. I'll feel quite stressful if I'll be the only one bringing the bacon home. I prefer living life in a balancing act. Doesn't matter if he earns a bit lesser than me. At least, we can a chance to contribute. If he earns more than me, I'll be more happy then. d'oh.

Getting a paper qualification seems to be recognised as the basic need of life. Without it, you are very much limiting your job options and needless to say on the salary ladder. I hope my 'invesment' on my brother's uni education will be able to generate more income and thus be helping out with the fam. At least, I can pass the burden bucket onto him after he graduates. hurhur! Especially mom, she's like our deputy chief banker at home.When my bro is in the army, 1/3 of his salary will have to be handed to mom for safekeeping. She would know how absent minded my bro can be when it comes to savings. At least, now he has adequate money to buy books without asking dad.

For those without paper qualifications, I would suggest you come to ozzie and set up a cattle farm. Selling cows can be a lucurative trade. What you need is the basic knowledge on rearing cows and possessed with a country easy-going attitude. Each cow selling worth a few hundred thousand dollars depending on the breed. Otherwise, go pick up a skill, undergo training and get certified by a recognised insitution. That's why we have JCIA (international audit) and previously is ISO (similar audit) conducting, for instance, at the hospitals. Everything has to be certified and proven on every part of the job as allocated. Hence,if you have not undergo proper training and that indicate you are not qualified for the job even though you KNOW how to do it.
That's life.

Queensland travel: Great kepple island

If you are looking for beautiful scenic views and not forgetting the sun, sand and sea, Great kepple island is de prefect place for retreat. It is not exactly an expensive place to travel and with AUD $10 , you are able to rent the snorkelling gears to check out some of the most exquisit coral reefs with a variety of different fish species. The kids were still on the Easter break when I was there and yet, I don't feel a tinge of hustle and bustle of people on the island.

We trekked along the coast to the other part of the waters for more snorkelling. See that 2 tiny dots in the pic? We sure over-trekked....

While we were trekking along the coast, we arrived at Oyster bay. I had my first taste of 'LIVE" oyster leh!! Quite salty and I was telling DDU that we should bring a lemon along hurhur* for like oyster platter ;p As you can see the osyters are mounted on the rocks. And you should pick those with the clams closed. It took quite a bit of effort to break the oyster from rock followed by the 'unclamping' process.

DDU brought me to Great Western hotel for some steak. This town has one of the biggest cattle production. In the month of May, the town even has planned for a cattle conference.

I like steak in well done. The portion is just right..........:p~

As I've mentioned about the cattle conference, there will also be a cattle decoration contest going around the town. And this pic has shown one of the 'contestants' dressed up for the competition.

I HAD A GREAT TIME!!

Next destination: Cairns/Lord Howe island (if I tio4 TOTO

From the sunshine Queensland

Finally, I get a chance to enjoy a break from New South Wales and currently enjoying myself soaking up the sunshine in Queenland. DDU and her mate were nice to take me out for an island retreat. We walked kms all over the coast edges full of rocks. The best part was getting a taste of a real oyster fresh from the coast! DDU was sure thoughtful to bring a dagger along on this trip or else I'll never get to see how the oyster was 'opened up' with the fresh flesh in it.For a moment we were so tempted to get a plastic bag and 'da bao'. Oh yes, we still have our Asian kiasu genes in it....how can we ever forget our roots right?
We did snorkelling and its coral reefs are absolutely beautiful. Reminded me of my old scuba days where I'm always heading to Malaysia for weekend dives. sigh* Ever since I came to Oz, I had given up rollerblading (too hilly) and diving. Entrance for a local pool costs $4AUD per entry. See how lucky singaporeans get to enjoy cheap fees for sport activity. I remember Bedok swimming complex only cost like a dollah!!

It wouldn't be too long that I'll be leaving for NSW by Tuesday.*sob sob*
Now I need to remove my whitening trays and continue with my toothbrushing.
more later...;D

Happy Easters!

As usual, no difference from the past previous years, I will also get myself a choc bunny for Easters. This year it's a super fine dark choc bunny from Cadbury. Wooo so cute to eat!
Yesterday I was out on a shopping spree at a factory outlet with a couple of girls from SG.
Before you start to judge me being a spendthrift, I've earned all those blood sweat money from work and extra working hours. So shudd up and enjoy my bargain listings while u can choose eat sour grapes at the same time. *evil laughs*

Bargain listing:
1) Nine West tote bag - $29
2) Portsman top -$14
3) Rip Curl man's shirt -$10 (for my..........................bro la!)
4) Witchery dress and top -$60
5) Roxy shirt-$23
6) Esprit dress-$20
7) Giordano sweater top -$10
8) Mambo yellow bikinis -$10

WOOHOO!Shopping can be such a therapeutic regime.
I am a happy girl! ;D

Long weekend

What a whirlwind of busy week before Good Friday finally has arrived. I was working by all myself in the clinic without the 'supervisor' around. Appointments were full to the brim that I've to start the day much earlier and end it much later (0830-1800hours). NO fun okay!! Just imagine my hands are always holding those instruments/scalpels/writing notes the whole day except during lunch break.
Good to see the income rolling in more than expected and best of all, I've yet to encounter difficult patients this week. In fact, I've got quite a number of interesting people that came through the clinic.

Mrs M has got such gross heel cracks and messed up toenails that I gotta asked her to come twice with a charge on long consultation fee. I simply can't understand how can people don't wear shoes for gardening and rather let the mud getting into those deep cracks.

Mr R is from Queenland and suffers from right heel pain. Since he came to town for a visit, he came to the clinic and hope that I'll fix up his problem. He was saying that the nearest podiatrist is located about 300kms away from where he lives. The treatment plan is to make him a pair of custom made orthotics. Usually the orthotics take about 2 weeks to be make. Since he is leaving in 5 days time, I had to 'push' the lab tech to make it as 'urgent' while in the meantime, I will strap up his foot in rigid tape and perform a biomechanical assessment (joint) all at one go.
*phew* On the last day when he came to pick up his orthotics, he even gave me a brochure which explains the place he is from. He said " you can consider this as your holiday destination the next time." Country fellowmen does have great hearts indeed.

Mr P who is a world war two veteran suffers from ingrown nail. He hope I'll get it treated in two weeks time as he will be marching on Anzac Day.*stress* So I managed to remove the nail spicule, applied Betadine dressing and put him on a course of antibiotics. Old veteran feet hor...must be extra careful one.

I've got gross pics to put up but perhaps I'll do it later.
Otherwise , my life is pretty mundane and I seriously hate long holiday breaks.But on the happier note, I am going shopping tomorrow then.
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I went to see my dermatologist after my last day of work. I'm having an eczema breakout on my arms and legs which could be due to the drug which I'm taking.
I just had a blood test to check for query polycystic ovaries -_-. So I'll be awaiting for the results till next week.
After checking on the information on PCO, I don't think I got the signs and symptoms which described except pimples. Who knows..

Walking down the memory lane

This was a story told by my mom about the life of my grandmother.She was actually adopted from China and 'sold' to a Malaysian
parents. So grandma was the youngest with 2 sisters above her.

In those days, life was hard. For a woman without an education background, she had to wake up in the wee hours of morning to do rubber tapping in the forest. She met and married her first husband ( uh my step- grandfather) with a son. When the Japanese invaded Malaya, my step grandfather and a few other patriotic sons decided to get into the deep forest and planned on the fights against Japs. Days and months went by, my grandma was broken hearted and concluded that her husband was probably killed by the Japs. Years went by, she continued to work effortlessly to raise her son up. She then met her second husband my grandfather) at the rubber plantation and soon got married. My two uncles and mom were born then. It was hard for my first uncle to learn to get along with the rest of family. Perhaps in a child's mind, he was probably feeling that someone has taken his mom away from him.
To my surprise, remarriage was something acceptable in those days. Being an Asian, we are often guarded by our moral values and having traditional mindset like our forefathers do. Who knows some others may have looked down on my grandma or subjected her as a husband curser. I can imagine it must be hard on her.
Right now in her 80s, she is happily living in her kampong house and laughing at every bit of life. Eating whatever she wants even though she is a Type 2 diabetic (which was diagnosed few years ago only). She said she is too old for diet restriction and would rather eat without any regrets.

Shouldn't being too nice ..maybe

I've got a guilty conscious that when I am being 'overly' nice or helpful to someone whom I've just met at work. I do see the point where I really wanna help because she just came all the way from Europe and carrying only max. 20kg of lugguage without any winter clothes. Even though she had briefly told me about her mom is sending some clothings and shoes , I brought two of my jumpers for her the next day. This is where the so-called guilty conscious sets in. I feel that I am being too nice to be true. The last thing on my mind is I hope that she doesn't feel too intimidated by me in anyways.
In other words, I do have a tendency to worry for other people. If the help is within my limit, I will go ahead and do it.

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I'm enjoying every minute in my single comfort zone. I could buy anything at any amount at anytime. This just feels great. But I know that there will come a certain point in my life that this may or gonna be changed.....
I LOVE MY SINGLEHOOD. I need some tough dudes who are capable to tie my feet down coz I can run real fast! Serious!

What has she done ?

I've always advised a lot of my patients never attempt to self- removed corns using corn plasters.

Corn plasters are meant to be applied on the corn itself and not to be applied on surrounding skin. From the picture as you can see the little nucleus , that's where the corn is. To make matters worst, X has applied the plaster on the surrounding 'good' skin as well and thus, creating bigger skin surface area (yellow part) needed to be removed. X still limping in pain after that.

The simplest way of removing the corn is to see your local podiatrist where he/she could remove it with a scalpel within minutes. Usually it's pain free and need not require local anasthetic.

I reckon corn plasters should be banned. People suffering from diabetes are strongly advisable not to self treat as they usually have lack/poor sensation on feet. Plus, the healing rates are much slower than others.

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As I am currently PMS-ing now, I feel like to yak a bit more on the blog. Last Wed, I had a patient who didn't turn up on time and in fact, he turned up half an hour later. His excuse was " sorry i went to the wrong place." How can he went to the wrong place where the name of the clinic was derived from the name of the suburb. Judging from his address, he just lives about 5 minutes away from the clinic location. Out of pity, I squeesed him in for the appoinment later. By the way,he works as a delivery man. How can he mix up with the locations? If I was his boss, he's FIRED!!

Ok back to the story. I am not sure if he needs a hearing aid OR he is mocking at my English OR my accent. For fug sake, I was not born here and don't expect me to speak like one of you. All I requested was to ask him to bring in the xray films in next visit. He simply just stared at me for 5 secs and he went like :" oh u mean FILMS!" What the *uck he expects me to say it. I don't think the word 'films' is a difficult word to say. Next time I'll re-schedule such patient at a later date coz he also made me wasted extra time (eg, like repeating to his questions). My next poor mentally disabled patient had to wait so long to see me and yet he was turning up on time!

No more kindness for patients who turn up late because i'll say *uck off to you.