A Special Gathering for Beneficiaries of Dialysis Assistance Programme
In 2019, Tzu Chi Singapore launched an in-depth care programme for its aid recipients with kidney disease, with the objective of providing more comprehensive care for them. Tzu Chi also organised a gathering for these special aid recipients recently, and the event saw the attendance of 35 kidney patients and their family members. Besides health talks by doctors and dietitians, the volunteers also interacted with and encouraged the patients, with the hope of giving them the strength to carry on with life.
While exercising their hands, the audience laughed heartily. Maintaining a good mood is beneficial to the mind and body. 35 kidney patients and their families attended the first gathering for the beneficiaries of Tzu Chi’s kidney dialysis programme.
During the monthly home visits to the patients, the volunteers learned that basic health care knowledge is very important to them. Thus, doctors and dietitians were invited to the event to share such knowledge and answer questions.
Sim Su Wan, Dietician: We all need to eat, so we need to teach the patients to eat the right kinds of food. If what they eat does not complement the medications, it will adversely affect their body and health.
Low Hwee Yen, kidney patient: I used to love seafood, but now I don't dare to eat it anymore. It is true. I don't dare to eat prawns and squids anymore.
The volunteers not only care about the patients’ health, but also their mental wellbeing, accompanying them as they tide over their difficult times.
Low Hwee Yen, kidney patient: I am very thankful to the volunteers for helping patients like us. I have changed a lot. I am a more optimistic person now.
Lawrence Lee, kidney patient: (After coming here), I became more appreciative of Tzu Chi. I can learn and I see the work behind it and you all volunteering… It's very good. Real love is about sacrificing, and that is big love.
Undergoing kidney dialysis may be a long journey, but with the support from family and care from Tzu Chi volunteers, this journey will no longer be a lonely and difficult one.
