In July 1994, Joan lost her soulmate and husband, Henry, after a two year battle with liver cancer. At 35, she became a single mother with two young boys and despite appearing resilient, she would often take solo car rides just to scream and vent her frustrations. Previously living in Hong Kong, Henry's passing also necessitated Joan to bring her boys back to Singapore, leaving behind her familiar way of life. Almost three decades have passed, but grief is still a topic very close to her heart and with the lessons that she has learnt, Joan wishes to help others overcome any unresolved grief. She has since founded Whispering Hope, an organisation aiding the bereaved in their time of need.