KUCHING: Many look forward to festive gatherings with family and friends at this time of the year.
However, for some, the season brings little relief in terms of coping with their daily struggles.
Just days before the Chinese New Year celebration, Hope Place Kuching visited an elderly woman who, despite her frailty, continues to care for her disabled son in Kampung Pulau Kandis.
Lai Ah Jung, 83, lives with her 39-year-old son, Ah Lung, who has an intellectual disability. Lai, whose legs are weak, finds it difficult to stand or sit for long periods. Yet, she tirelessly tends to her home and son.
“Knowing that Ah Lung solely depends on me in this whole world, I push on to give the best to my son,” she said.
Lai also suffers from a growth on her back, but doctors have advised against surgery due to her advanced age.
She manages her condition with medication and occasional painkillers when the discomfort becomes unbearable. On top of these challenges, she also struggles with a weak heart.
“Ah Lung, who cannot speak and has physical deformities, relies entirely on me for daily care, including feeding, bathing, and other needs.
With no other family members to support her, Lai faces this immense responsibility alone.
Lai and Ah Lung do not have a home of their own. Previously living with another son, they moved out due to family disputes.
A kind-hearted benefactor offered them a place to stay and provided furniture and a washing machine to ease their burden.
Hope Place Kuching learned about Lai’s situation through the public.
Before the NGO’s involvement, the same benefactor often bought food for her and Ah Lung.
Hope Place now provides continuous food aid to the family, while donors have stepped in to bring festive cheer, gifting mandarin oranges, soft drinks, cookies, and red packets.
Although the future remains uncertain, Lai is deeply grateful for the kindness and support from her benefactors and Hope Place.
For those wishing to help, Hope Place, also known as Persatuan Kebajikan Harapan Kuching (PKHK), can be reached at 082-505987 or 013-5672775.
