The world of Tzu Chi June 2021 (Vol.135)

2021 • 06 14 eature son started schooling in the Tzu Chi Refugee School three years ago. Things could have been a little more manageable if he had not been struck with the illness. A family together – coping with cancer Harun was unable to recognize any of his familymembers right after the surgery.Halimah would feed him with hand-mashed food, clean the tracheostomy tube and nurse his wound. She has sleepless nights as she fears Harun may fall off the bed. It is physically draining for Halimah, who suffers from diabetes and hypertension. Onaisah and her brother Hamid would take turns to look after their father. It is both emotionally and physically exhausting as the children grapple with the fear of losing their father while lending him much physical and moral support. “My father is unable to eat well and he keeps crying. It saddens me and I am really scared and worried. I do not know much about cancer; I have never heard of this illness. The only thing I could do is to console my father that he will get well eventually,” said Onaisah, between sobs. Harun’s family always looks forward to the volunteers’ monthly visit. Talking to the volunteers and knowing someone does care is emotionally healing.