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

TZU CHI 135 29 hospital for plastic surgery. Doctors grafted skin from his body onto his lower eyelid so he could close his eyes comfortably. He had to undergo a procedure for elbow contracture and a finger joint surgery. Ripples of kindness give hope During the lunar new year festive season this year, Lee Poh and fellow volunteer Lee Cheng Soo visited Dal En Lam. Lee Poh said, “I received a message from Tzu Chi two days ago that a refugee family was going to be evicted from their house because they owed utility bills and house rent.” The volunteers found out that he owed rent for February and RM430 for utilities. Dal En Lam even cancelled Thang’s surgery scheduled for February 28. “I cannot afford the RM5,000 surgery fees. I have a wife and kids at home. I cannot let Thang go for the surgery and the others sleep in the field. That is impossible!” Seeing that Dal En Lam was in a dilemma, the volunteers decided to help him apply for a grant from Tzu Chi so he could send his son to the hospital. Lee Poh said, “The child is still young and if he does not undergo surgery on his hand in time, what can he do in the future? We have to find a way to help him.” The volunteers could not bear to see Thang’s miserable situation. He must undergo surgery at Selayang Hospital, and the cost of travelling to and from the hospital will be a huge burden. Fortunately, volunteers from Klang Happy Garden also set up a “Follow-Up Treatment Transport Support Team” to take Dal En Lam and Thang to the hospital. “Do not worry about the surgery! We will apply to Tzu Chi to help fund the surgery cost and subsidize your living expenses.” Hearing the volunteers’ reassuring words, Dal En Lam was finally willing to admit Thang to the hospital. After learning about Dal En Lam’s plight, Sui San shared the information in the volunteer group. The volunteers were so moved that they helped him pay off the February rent and utility bills. Thang underwent surgery in March and was discharged in early April. The explosion had a traumatic impact on Thang. He developed a fear of fire, and he would hide in his father’s arms whenever he hears firecrackers. “I do not have any relatives in my hometown now. I cannot go back. I just want the children to get well soon so I can continue working, to earn money and support my family. That is all I can do,” said Dal En Lam. For people who live a comfortable life, earning money and raising a family are just part and parcel of daily life. Perhaps some people aspire to find a better job, to achieve more, and to live a better life. As for Dal En Lam, securing a stable job and providing for the family remains a struggle, and a daily challenge. Postscript: I Was Told to Run, and to Run Quickly