In the last 10 years of their stay at AWWA Senior Community Home, room-mates Madam Tan and Madam Chua have shared both good and bad times together.

Madam Tan, aged 73, was an excellent needle worker. She was often seen patch-working, crocheting and knitting pieces that were eventually sold or used as display souvenirs. Madam Chua, aged 87, though not as proficient with the needle, excelled when it came to the culinary skills. They spent many happy hours sewing and cooking together.

Their peaceful routine was disrupted in Jan 2009 when Madam Tan was diagnosed with having a brain tumour. She needed surgery and was devastated and depressed. For Madam Chua, adjusting to the deteriorating condition of her roommate was not easy. However, with encouragement and support from AWWA Senior Community Home staff, Madam Chua rose to the occasion and took on the role as a caregiver. She visited Mdm Tan at the hospital, and upon Madam Tan’s discharge, took care of her friend’s meals and medication and Madam Tan made a gradual recovery.

In the middle of 2011, Madam Chua was found to have breast cancer. Having weathered a previous crisis together, the roles now reversed. Madam Tan took over the responsibility of Madam Chua’s meals, medication and personal chores till her full recovery several months later.

All were especially heartened to see the familial bond grew between Madam Chua and Madam Tan. It is one of the primary goals of AWWA Senior Community Home to promote interdependence amongst its residents. From room-mates to caregiving soul mates, Mdm Tan and Mdm Chua have shown us the resilience and tenacity of our pioneer generation.