The active and energetic little girl Karen suddenly became paralyzed and wheelchair-bound. Her parents became very miserable, “We couldn’t accept the doctor's diagnosis.” Mrs Chan recalled the heart-wrenching moment when she and her husband nearly collapsed.

The tragedy did not break Karen’s will. She started to learn using her wheelchair and take care of her own needs. "My little girl became more mature and independent." This also helped the Chans face their challenges with more courage. With the help of "Care for the Carers" service provided by Hong Kong PHAB Association, the Chans were more equipped in creating a more wheelchair-friendly environment at home and overcoming the obstacles in Karen’s school campus. Their quality of life was also effectively enhanced.

“I must thank the social worker for reminding me to encourage Karen stay in touch with the community and regain her confidence. Her self-esteem was re-established when she started to offer voluntary tutorial to another disabled child.” To focus on taking care of Karen, Mrs Chan gave up her career and social life. The centre’s interest groups, volunteer programmes and social activities have helped Mrs Chan rebuild her community networks and a positive outlook.

Extract from “Togetherness-Stories of 8 Care-givers of People with Physical Disability” (May 2012) published by Hong Kong PHAB Association, the member social welfare agency of The Community Chest of Hong Kong

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