The World Of Tzu Chi(Vol.128)

TZU CHI 128 47 seeing hope in the darkness. Eak Yong provided detailed explanations to clear Selvi’s doubts and taught her children the right way to move her to the wheelchair. It was so much easier compared to their previous way! Ton Leong reminded the children to observe the steps demonstrated carefully and learn the correct way of taking care of their mother, so that they could help their mother with her rehabilitation. Before the volunteers left, the kids made tea and served it to the physiotherapist and volunteers. Upon seeing that, Selvi was very touched. As Eak Yong explained that the main cause of Selvi’s backache was due to prolonged lying on non-firmed mattress, and suggested to replace it with a firmer one, Ton Leong took note and found a used coconut fibre mattress one day after. He said joyfully, “When there’s a will, there’s a way. Many people have come together and generously supported Selvi’s family.” After discussions, the volunteers also decided to subsidize Selvi’s biweekly rehabilitation fees, in addition to the current aids and follow up on her health condition. The help most needed After receiving a few months of care and visits by the medical professionals, Selvi and her children made a card to express their gratitude towards Tzu Chi, the medical team and volunteers. With her weak hand, Selvi wrote on the card: “To Master Cheng Yen and all members of Taiwan Buddhist Tzu-Chi Foundation Malaysia, thank you for helping me.” To their pleasant surprise, the thoughtful volunteers also brought a gift for each member of the family. Selvi’s eldest daughter, a tall and slim Form 1 student expressed shyly, “This is my first time receiving a gift. I’m so surprised and happy!” She and her younger siblings would help with household chores, such as sweeping and cooking, and taking care of their mother to reduce the burden on their grandparents. Although life has been tough, the volunteers’ presence has brought them hope and warmth. After everyone had received their gifts, the volunteers requested Selvi to go outside (of her house) to receive hers. A truck was seen driving towards her house, and on it, Selvi found a fridge! It was a used fridge that the volunteers had spent some time to look for, having learnt about the inconvenience they faced without a fridge at home. Selvi said joyfully, “Our old fridge had broken down. This is exactly what we need now!” From getting them mattresses, dining ware, fridge and other home appliances, to arranging for doctors to visit them, the volunteers’ mindfulness was felt by Selvi. To reciprocate their kindness, Selvi became a Tzu Chi donor, saving loose change in a coin bank and use it as donation to help other less fortunate families. She said, “Thanks to your sincere care, I see a glimmer of hope, and I feel relieved with the support from Tzu Chi.” On the other hand, the volunteers encouraged Selvi’s father to look for a job and opportunities for work that can be done from home, so that Selvi’s mother and elder sister could also contribute to the family’s finances. At the same time, the volunteers will continue to check on the kids to ensure that their studies are not affected. While extending timely aid to needy families, Tzu Chi has been emphasizing on helping them to be self-reliant again, and inspiring them to help themselves and others, thereby generating a cycle of love.