Five years ago, 64-year-old Mr Chong Moon Yeen was behind the wheel of his taxi when he unexpectedly suffered a stroke. He was rushed to the hospital and spent several days in a coma in the ICU. The stroke had caused a blood clot in his brain, and to relieve the pressure from the swelling, doctors had to perform a delicate surgery, removing part of his skull. Once stabilised, Mr Chong was transferred to MWS Bethany Nursing Home (BNH) – Choa Chu Kang, where he began his long journey of recovery, receiving round-the-clock medical and nursing care, as well as therapy.
“I just couldn’t manage caring for him alone because he was a large man, and I wasn’t strong enough to lift him by myself,” shared his wife, Mdm Alice Sih Lai Khuen. “I was also juggling a full-time job at the time, which made it even harder.”
About a year after her husband’s stroke, Mdm Alice was diagnosed with an autoimmune disorder that weakened her muscles, making it impossible for her to continue working. With their two children still in school and the family relying on financial aid for daily expenses, Mdm Alice felt overwhelmed, unsure how she could afford the care her husband desperately needed.
Financial support brings relief
Amid the family’s financial struggles, the generous sponsorship from Wesley Methodist Church became a lifeline, enabling Mr Chong to remain at MWS BNH so he can receive the essential care he needs.
“My late father had dementia and was also in a nursing home at that time. It was incredibly hard trying to care for both my husband and my father,” Mdm Alice said, her voice breaking as tears welled up. “I am deeply grateful for the church’s financial support. Without it, I don’t know how I would have managed. It has truly lifted a weight off my shoulders.”
Even now, as the couple’s children are just starting their careers and unable to contribute much, the family’s finances remain tight. Yet, the ongoing support brings Mdm Alice much-needed comfort, knowing they’re not facing these struggles alone.
Making a difference in her own way
Out of a heart overflowing with gratitude, Mdm Alice gives back by volunteering with MWS’ Caregivers’ Club, where she leads other caregivers in activities like mooncake-making and lantern crafts to help them relax and unwind. She also shares self-care tips, such as relaxation techniques, offering support to those navigating similar challenges.
“Helping other caregivers gives me a sense of accomplishment,” said Mdm Alice. “Everyone faces their own struggles, even if they don’t always talk about them. These activities bring a little joy into their lives. Whether their creation turns out perfect or not, they feel proud, and seeing them happy makes me happy too.”
Illuminating hope
Mdm Alice is just one of many whose lives have been transformed by the generous support of MWS’ partner churches. These churches provide crucial financial aid and volunteer support, from sponsoring tuition for underprivileged youth to offering grocery vouchers for struggling families and engaging seniors experiencing social isolation in meaningful activities. Partner us and be a channel of the hope and light of Christ in the community.
Learn more at www.mws.sg, and make a difference to the over 16,700 families and individuals by donating at www.mws.sg/give. Your support can transform lives today.
By the Methodist Welfare Services Communications Team/ Photos courtesy of Methodist Welfare Services