Always wearing a smile, Mr Ruslan, 69, goes about his daily life without a complaint. His positive outlook, however, shadowed his turbulent journey that is seldom shared – until now.

When Ruslan’s second son, Idham, was two, he was diagnosed with Mucopolysaccharidosis (MPS). Individuals with MPS have missing or insufficient enzymes that hinder cellular health. This may cause progressive damage throughout the body, including the heart, bones, joints, respiratory system, and central nervous system.

It wasn’t until Idham was 14 that the effects of the condition started to manifest. His health deteriorated at an accelerated speed and became dependent on all his Activities of Daily Living (ADL) needs. Both Mr and Mrs Ruslan had to make special work arrangements to ensure that he wasn’t left alone at home for a prolonged period.

Amidst their busy schedules, the couple dedicates their evenings to taking care of Idham. Ruslan constantly encourages Idham to exercise and tells him to never give up. Knowing that Idham loves watching wrestling, Ruslan would carry him to the indoor stadium to catch a wrestling match. Truly, a dad’s unconditional love exemplified.

Ruslan himself suffers from hypertension, among others. Regardless, he continues to work, provide and take care of his family. Idham is enrolled in AWWA Home Personal Care Service (HPCS). Our trained Home Care Associate goes to his house to provide companionship and simple maintenance to ensure that Idham gets the exercises he needs.

Recently, our Home Care Associate, Mr Daniel Goh, brought Idham down to cycle. We are humbled by Daniel’s act of kindness, going above and beyond his job scope just to make Idham happy.