Charity Case

Everyone harbours dreams and yearns to lead the life they desire. However, the harsh reality often diverges from our dreams. Stella Lee, aged 67, found herself trapped in a chaotic living environment that mirrored the turmoil within her own heart. In the process of decluttering her physical space, she discovered a newfound sense of ease and motivation to live her life well from now on.

Aunt Chiong, who lives alone in an orchard, faced the challenges of living without a toilet in her home. Recognising the inconvenience she endured, a dedicated team of Tzu Chi volunteers got together to construct a toilet for her.

“Besides saying thank you, I am at a loss for words. I am incredibly grateful to all of you,” Zarinah expressed with deep emotion as she gazed at the volunteers surrounding her and her family. She embraced volunteer Wong Pooi Wan while repeatedly expressing her gratitude amidst tears. In that moment, an indescribable mixture of gratitude and reluctance to part filled the air…

She had to navigate the crowded bus, pushing the stroller with essential supplies and an oxygen cylinder while comforting her crying child, who felt uncomfortable due to the stuffiness and forcefully tilted his head backward, leaving her arm bruised and in pain. Only she knew the true extent of the hardship she endured in her efforts to save on transportation costs.

Poverty and illnesses are interlinked. Oftentimes, when a family member, especially the breadwinner, falls sick, the whole family becomes trapped in predicaments. For Lim Siong Heng’s family, Tzu Chi volunteers lifted them up with charity, medical and education assistance.

From being independent, her mother now has to rely on others for everything. From being hot-tempered to being innocent and smiling, her father, who had a stroke, is now incapable of doing anything. When her parents needed her most, Natasha has been staying with them to reciprocate their kindness, and taking care of them together with the siblings.

Siti Rahayu has a pair of smiling eyes, and a big smile, too. She delights in every little thing around her. One may wonder whether it is her nature, or the hardship she had endured that gave rise to her being calm and composed under any circumstances.

“I have a coin bank in my closet that I want to donate to Tzu Chi. The volunteers have not come for two years. Before my partner’s demise, he told me to donate RM10 monthly. I now owe Tzu Chi RM240 over the past two years. Please remember to hand over the RM240 to Tzu Chi after I depart this life…” – Heng Bak Nam

Years ago, doctors pronounced that Lee Ah Peng, who was struck by an illness, would be paralysed. This crippled his spirit and suicidal thought arose. Now, he takes recycling as part of his rehabilitation exercise, and aspires to benefit others through voluntary work.

“Mum, I love you!” These simple words uttered by Amy warmed the hearts of all present, while her mother embraced her and prayed in between sobs, “You’ll recover one day, you surely will…”

If she could turn back the hands of time, Yap Ling Sien wished to return to the day of the accident, to save her from the greatest regret in her life. If he had the privilege to write the script for his life, Sam Joon Wai hoped to do his best to bring hope to others through his helping hands. However, there are no ‘ifs’ in life. Instead of waiting for miracles to happen, the mother and son summoned up their courage to face the adversities in life.