Last Saturday, we visited Madam Khatijah. Although she was still recovering from her knee surgery, she cleaned her house before we visited her. Our attached senior, Xuan Kai, brought her photos taken previously when volunteers visited her in the hospital. She was extremely appreciative of their efforts as she repeatedly praised their dedication and their performances put up when she was still in hospital.  

She recounted interesting stories of her pet monkey, which she bought in Rochor decades ago. She was cheerful and talkative and there was never a moment of silence with her.

We also visited invited her neighbour, 99year-old Madam Chin. Madam Chin was frail and could barely walk even with the help of her personal helper. The 2 elderly were extremely close, as Madam Khatijah tolerated the searing pain in her knee as she walked to Madam Chin’s house to visit her, not complaining about the pain even once. Before we left, Madam Khatijah hugged us and gave us a peck on our cheeks even though this was the first time she had seen most of us.

It was my 3rd visit and I think each visit is rewarding as there's always a something to learn from the elderly. Every elderly I have visited so far provides us with new perspectives and often show concern towards volunteers, even for new volunteers like us. Madam Khatijah in particular reminded Xuan Kai repeatedly to print the photos we took during this visit so she could frame them up. I think this shows how much they love T.H.E.S and the impact T.H.E.S. has in their lives :)

- Jiamin