March to May 2003 was an extraordinary period in the history of Singapore. Our nation was threatened by the unknown and deadly Severe Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) virus. Many fell victim to the virus and precious lives were lost.

Our healthcare workers were at the frontline tending to SARS patients and fought against the SARS virus to protect the nation. They held the fort with unflinching dedication and courage, at the risk of their own lives. Their dedication, selflessness and courage in fulfilling their duty brought honor to the healthcare profession and was a source of inspiration to the human spirit.

Amidst the uncertainty and difficult time, The Courage Fund was set up on 11 April 2003 as a fund-raising effort to provide relief to SARS victims and healthcare workers. It was jointly organized by the National Healthcare Group (NHG), Singapore Health Services (SingHealth), Singapore Medical Association (SMA), Singapore Nurses' Association (SNA) and Singapore Press Holdings (SPH). The Fund was n amed in honour of our healthcare workers, especially those who had fallen or suffered in the battle against SARS.

The Fund drew an overwhelming outpour of support from the public. From the man in the street to government leaders, from young children to talented artistes, from small shopkeepers to big multinational corporations, from Singaporean overseas to expatriate communities in Singapore, everyone united together to cheer our brave heroes in the healthcare. The Fund galvanized the entire nation and united all in steadfastness in the face of adversity.

The Courage Fund exists till today to be a continuing tribute to healthcare workers.

President S R Nathan is the Patron-in-Chief of the Fund. The Fund has a Board of Trustees chaired by Mr Michael Lim (chairman of NHG). The Fund Working Committee, chaired by Dr Lim Suet Wun (chief executive officer of NHG & TTSH), comprises management representatives from the various joint organisers.