The world of Tzu Chi (Vol.109)

2019 • 04 10 eature find out the time of day by listening to radio news broadcasts.” At the end of 2017, he was informed by the hospital that a cornea transplant had been arranged for him at a reduced cost of RM2,500, which was an extravagant sum for the penniless Tang Soong. Just as Tang Soong was starting to lose all hope, a friend suggested that he seek help from Tzu Chi, hence the beginning of his acquaintance with Tzu Chi volunteers. Renewed hope in life “Good morning, Ah Soong. Amitabha (a Buddhist greeting, “I wish you well”)!” The friendly greeting reverberated in the early morning air, accompanied by the familiar sound of a car approaching the gate, signalling the much-anticipated arrival of Tzu Chi volunteer, Wong Kang Jiann. Tang Soong returned Kang Jiann’s greeting with a cheerful “Good morning, Brother Wong!” He was evidently elated to see Kang Jiann, who had supported him through thick and thin. The purpose of Kang Jiann’s visit was to fetch Tang Soong to the hospital for a follow- up appointment. Kang Jiann would arrive at Tang Soong’s house early in advance of the appointed time to avoid the long queue at the doctor’s, allowing Tang Soong to reach his turn sooner and return home earlier. Care recipient Wong Tang Soong relies on volunteer Wong Kang Jiann (far left) and Tang Soong’s close friend, Keow Pak On (far right), to guide him towards the light at the end of the tunnel.