KUCHING: Non-governmental organisation Hope Place Kuching has come to the aid of a single mother who is shouldering the immense responsibility of caring for her elderly parents, one of whom is bedridden, while also providing for her teenage son.
It recently received a call for assistance from 52-year-old Nora, who lives with her parents and 19-year-old son, Ling, at Taman Duranda Emas, Siburan.
Her father, Morris Cheng, 77, has been bedridden since suffering a stroke earlier this year.
Once a farmer in Betong, Morris now relies entirely on his daughter for care.
He is also living with diabetes, hypertension and high cholesterol, requires tube feeding and is unable to speak.
“I try my best to balance everything each day. My parents need constant care, but I also have to earn an income to support the household,” Nora said to Hope Place volunteers.
“Collecting and selling wild vegetables gives me some flexibility, so I can stay home most of the time. It is not easy, but this is my duty as a daughter,”she said.
Nora’s mother, Niew, 78, who moved to Kuching with her husband after his stroke, is also struggling with multiple health problems.
Like her husband, she is diabetic, has high blood pressure and suffers from poor eyesight.
Despite her own history of serious health issues which once saw her enduring severe, non-stop bleeding that required heavy medication Nora continues to provide round-the-clock care for both parents.
The family’s income is minimal. Nora sells wild vegetables while Ling works part-time as a security guard to help make ends meet.
Although Nora’s siblings live outside Kuching, they contribute financially whenever possible. Niew receives a monthly aid of RM600 from the Social Welfare Department.
Hope Place, also known as Persatuan Kebajikan Harapan Kuching (PKHK), has stepped in to support the family by providing adult diapers and special milk powder supplements for Morris.
Members of the public who wish to assist can contact Hope Place at 082-505987. Donations are welcome and receipts will be issued upon request.
