The world of Tzu Chi Sep-Oct 2022 (Vol.143)

TZU CHI 143 41 to give, adding value to her life. Determined, unwavered aspiration In 2002, See ChimsawTzuChi volunteers performing a skit on environmental protection in a mall, and learnt that the proceeds from the sale of recyclables were used to help the needy. Hence, although she had only Sundays off work as a domestic helper, she joined recycling work and later expanded into charity, medical care, education, community, and so on. Over a decade ago, See Chim was diagnosed with early-stage uterine cancer. Then in 2016, it was early-stage bladder cancer. In June 2021, the doctor told her that she would only need to return for check- ups annually, but that same afternoon, she discovered she had stage four colorectal cancer. She had had cancers. How did she get to stage four cancer with a regular daily routine and without any symptoms or pain? See Chim accepted the news calmly. She quit her job and began a series of treatments, putting her faith in the doctors. Half-a-year of chemotherapy weakened her physically. However, she was not worried about her illness or recovery. Rather, she was concerned about not doing any Tzu Chi work for the past six months. In January 2022, two weeks after she completed her chemotherapy, See Chim was eager to return to the team. Volunteers Tan Yoke Teng, Mi Dee, Chong Ai Ching and Lim Ah Choo, who were all guided and accompanied by See Chim in the past and had witnessed her dedication to Tzu Chi, came together to support her. Cleaning Malacca Tzu-Chi Jing Si Hall weekly, doing recycling work thrice weekly since February, and making charity home visits, See Chim did not appear to be a patient who had just finished chemotherapy. The community leader was, however, concerned about her health condition with increased risk in the pandemic. Hence, she advised Yoke Teng and Mi Dee not to drive See Chim out for the time being. Nonetheless, See Chim was resolute. “I will do the things I want to do. No matter how far I must go, I will walk if that is what it takes. Do not worry. I am grateful to the volunteers, they take care of me.” Walk the talk, lead by example In fact, it was See Chim’s sincerity and determination to do Tzu Chi work that inspired Mi Dee andYoke Teng. Mi Dee shared, “I never thought of putting on Tzu Chi uniform. When I participated in activities, I sometimes got annoyed by the words of others. Sister See Chim was mindful and had never said deflating words to me. Her actions and words touched me. Her persistence in doing Tzu Chi work helped me to have faith in walking the Tzu Chi path.” Back then, See Chim, who finished work at 7 p.m., had to cook dinner for her parents and sister before hurrying to a Tzu Chi event, sometimes without dinner. Hence, when she called to extend an invitation, Mi Dee, although reluctant, would be motivated and end up attending. Besides that, See Chim had no transport. Therefore, to help her fulfil her commitment to do Tzu Chi work, Mi Dee would drive her. See Chim believes that each occasion presents a different opportunity, and that anyone or anything can inspire. Hence, she seizes the time to devote herself to do Tzu Chi work. She also travels regularly on foot to collect monthly donations. Mi Dee shared, “Tzu Chi is her top