When Ng Chye Hock’s wife was hospitalized in critical condition with Covid-19 earlier this year, the 62-year-old found himself taking on a new role: being the sole caregiver for their 30-year-old daughter. In a touching YouTube video shared by Tzu Chi Foundation, Ng opened up about the challenges he faced during this time, balancing care for his intellectually disabled daughter while also working part-time as a house mover.
His daughter, who also suffers from epilepsy, typically relied on her mother for daily routines, such as washing her face and brushing her teeth. With his wife absent, Ng had to handle everything, including the personal care tasks that made him deeply uncomfortable. “The most painful thing is that I have to face her every day and help her shower. After all, she’s 30 years old and a woman,” Ng shared, expressing his emotional struggle. Yet, he knew there was no choice but to carry on.
Ng described his wife of 30 years as an organ transplant patient, who, during her battle with Covid-19, texted him saying, “I’m sorry, I’ll have to leave before you.” But Ng encouraged her to keep fighting, reminding her of their responsibility to raise their daughter together.
Even though caring for his daughter while working was overwhelming, Ng refused to send her to a nursing home, preferring instead to bring her along with him in the van as he worked. One harrowing incident occurred when she suddenly opened the door of the moving vehicle, leaving Ng terrified but grateful that no harm had come to her.
Though his siblings offered to help with his daughter, Ng felt it wasn’t sustainable, choosing instead to “sacrifice a little” and take care of her himself. He admits that there were many sleepless nights and moments where he questioned why life was testing him. Yet, his daughter’s simple acts, like calling him “Dad,” brought him joy even in his darkest moments.
Thanks to assistance from the Ministry of Manpower, Ng eventually received help in the form of a domestic worker. Tzu Chi Foundation’s volunteer, Nancy Chew, noted how Ng rarely complained, despite his exhaustion. “He was very thin, but always smiling. He doesn’t share his troubles easily, though sometimes, he reveals them on social media.”
Fortunately, Ng’s wife, Ang Ah Choon, has since recovered from Covid-19 and returned home. Reflecting on the challenging period, Ng expressed gratitude, not only for his wife’s recovery but also for the support he received from his “brothers and sisters” at the Tzu Chi Foundation, where he serves as a volunteer. His story is one of resilience, love, and unwavering dedication to his family.