Permanent Installation of Pacita's Colorful Abstract Painting Reproduction | Singapore's Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine

This art installation was initiated by Prof. John Wong, a leading Singapore oncologist with the National University Hospital, who was Pacita's doctor while she was being treated for lung cancer.

Fifty-three of Pacita's large abstract paintings were reproduced on weather-resistant metal base and were installed on the outer walls of the institution's entrances in time for its inauguration in July 2012.

"A portfolio of paintings made by the late Pacita Abad, internationally-acclaimed global artist, many of which were painted while Pacita was undergoing treatment for advanced lung cancer at the National University Cancer Institute, Singapore (NCIS). As a testament to strong will and perseverance, she not only created more than 1,000 paintings over her three-year illnes, but also during her last months, painted the Alkaff Bridge, a 230-tonne, 55-metre long historical span over the Singapore River, with 55 colors and playful circle designs as her gift to the people of Singapore. Such was her courage and dedication, that every morning after her radiotherapy sessions, Pacita would be back on the river, working with her team under the blazing afternoon sun, wielding her brush and paints with a big smile even when she could no longer walk unaided. Her zest for life despite adversity was inspirational and her oncologist, Professor John Wong, recalls how Pacita continued to sip champagne just before she died, and over a flute of bubbly, charged that no tears be shed when her paintbrush was finally laid to rest.

This remarkable story of incredible bravery and indefatigable passion will always remind us how much we can learn from our patients. They have so much to teach us, inspire us and remind us of the privilege of being asked to accompany them on their journey, knowing that this journey may be their most difficult ever. Indeed, as Hippocrates aptly articulated, "Wherever the art of medicine is loved, there is also a love of humanity."

This is a tribute to all our patients: past, present and future.