The World Of Tzu Chi(Vol.113)

2019 • 08 22 Making themost out of life Lau Siew Ching, who volunteers for the Cancer Support Group, is a cancer survivor. Her younger sister, Siew Shia, succumbed to breast cancer. But the inclusive and supportive spirit of the Support Group has enabled her to shed her past and start anew. She remains an active volunteer for the Support Group and hopes to spread the word on it to benefit other cancer patients. By Lim Li Tian Translated by Chang Yii Yong Photograph by Leong Chian Yee I n a double-storey terrace house in a neighbourhood in Puchong, a white, fluffy poodle scampers briskly across the living room. The petite-sized canine, now four years of age, is Kimi, Lau Siew Ching’s beloved pet. “A pet is a welcome addition to the home as it keeps us company. Kimi stayed by my sister’s side throughout the time she spent recuperating at home following her cancer diagnosis,” shared Siew Ching, 45, who is a pharmacist by profession. She is two years older than her younger sister, Siew Shia, who succumbed to breast cancer and passed away in 2016 at the age of 40. Siew Shia’s demise coincided with the Chinese New Year season, casting a sombre mood over the festivities for the family. To this day, Siew Shia remains dearly missed and fondly remembered as the ever-thoughtful younger sibling to Siew Ching. eature