The World Of Tzu Chi(Vol.113)

2019 • 08 14 eature Takemy hand andwalkwithme Tan Eng’s compassion for cancer patients knows no bounds, as she receives cancer patients into her care with open arms and a sincere heart brimming with empathy. She quells the patients’ anxiety and despair by walking with them through their journey with cancer, supporting them every step of the way. By Tan Kim Hion Translated by Ong Mooi Lin Photograph by Aw Lee Ching V olunteer Tan Eng exudes the endearing persona of a kindly grandmother with every gesture; she wears her white hair in a neat bun, laughs in a genteel manner and speaks softly, befitting her petite, delicate frame. At 70, Tan Eng neither dwells upon her age nor imposes her seniority on others to show authority. Rather, she is grateful for the opportunity to support cancer patients through their trials and tribulations by volunteering with the Tzu Chi Cancer Support Group. Tan Eng is able to empathize with the ordeal of the cancer patients as she had been caring for her cancer-stricken husband for many years and has three family members diagnosed with cancer. She particularly sympathized with cancer patient Wong Yoke Pin, as it pained her to see the latter live in distress and agony.