The world of Tzu Chi (Vol.110)

2019 • 05 08 eature gastrointestinal bleeding and vomiting. Once, in the midst of an artificial hip replacement surgery, the anaesthesia wore off, exposing him to sharp, excruciating pain as the operation went on in his conscious state. He continued to suffer from one medical condition after another, including tuberculosis, hyphema, tinnitus, and a prolonged spell of dizziness. All his joints are now immobile, save for his wrists. A previous surgery left his legs in an awkward position, as if permanently prised apart. A rigid neck caused his gaze to be fixed straight ahead. Never one to back down, Teik Hong is determined to stay optimistic in the face of his potentially crippling illness. During his hospital stay, the doctors would introduce him to dejected patients as his cheerful disposition, coupled with his genial laughter, was the ideal antidote to the patients’misery. Furthermore, he was often taken as the subject of observation for trainee doctors due to his rare medical condition. He was not ruffled by the attention; instead, he jokingly likened himself to a specimen of an endangered species, up for scrutiny. Thriving under painstaking care When asked about his secret to staying resilient and open-minded even when confronted with suffering, Teik Hong revealed, “I couldn’t bear to show any sign of sorrow, as my mother would feel uneasy if I were to be upset. Let me shoulder my own pain and suffering all by myself, to spare my loved ones from worry and grief. Moreover, it is a blessing to be alive. Our time on earth is limited, hence another day lived is another day earned. That’s why I choose to live a happy life.” His response is modest, yet speaks volumes of his gratitude for his mother’s unconditional love. Leong Teik Hong’s optimism is a positive source of motivation for the volunteers.