The world of Tzu Chi September 2024 (Vol.151)

2024 • 09 22 Amathul Munirih. He was deeply worried that his daughter, who had been suffering from back pain for a month, might have a kidney problem. After thorough examinations, including an ultrasound scan and urine test, the medical team determined that Amathul’s kidneys were fine. To further confirm this, the team arranged for the Flying Doctor to conduct a blood test during their next visit. Relieved, Lim Gong expressed his gratitude, saying, “My daughter often looks pale and has no appetite. Yesterday, she was in so much pain that she cried, which worried me. But today, the doctors said she was fine and gave her some medicine. I’m very thankful. Now I can be at ease!” As the event wound down, Joseph Luat returned to offer help. He approached the volunteers, asking which supplies needed loading onto the vehicles. He was deeply moved by the large medical team’s presence and expressed his heartfelt gratitude. As he waved goodbye, the earlier worry on his face had faded and was replaced by a shy smile. Collective strength for a common goal The success of this medical outreach was a testament to the collective love and efforts of many. Peter Hoo, a local homestay operator in Lusong Laku, not only used his own funds to repair his establishment in preparation for the outreach team’s arrival but also generously provided free accommodations as a gesture of gratitude for their selfless service. He shared, “Medical outreach is a good deed that helps others. I won’t incur losses; rather, it will help more people know about this place; so in fact, I’m gaining. Furthermore, good deeds are reciprocal; when we help others, one day, if we face difficulties, there will surely be others who will come to our aid.” Dr. Wilson Ling from the Belaga Health Department felt honoured to be invited to the outreach. He noted that the TIMA members had set up each medical department well, allowing him and his two colleagues present to focus solely on the psychological health of the villagers. “Through today’s outreach, we were able to closely observe and understand the health conditions of the villagers, and we hope that the residents will always be vigilant about their health,” he said. Dr. Chin Zin Hing, former director of the Sarawak Health Department and a member of TIMA Kuching, noted that the outreach had provided practical help to the villagers. He expressed heartfelt thanks to the Kelab Cabaran Pacuan 4 Roda Bintulu, Peter Hoo, and Voon Homestay for their strong support, as well as the Bintulu Health Department for providing medical waste bins, which enabled Tzu Chi to complete the outreach successfully. He hopes that Tzu Chi and the Kelab Cabaran Pacuan 4 Roda Bintulu will establish a long- term cooperative relationship to conduct more rural medical outreach programmes. The remote and rugged mountain roads did not hinder the team from reaching out. Everyone, undeterred by challenges, contributed their strengths and efforts. As Master Cheng Yen said, “No matter the distance of one’s abilities, one can always strive to achieve their goals to the best of their ability. This is ‘perseverance’.” Watch the related video: