Another Week Beyond – 2239

September 30, 2022

Dear friends,

10 days ago, we had the privilege of being a part of the Caring Communities Carnival organized by Yishun Health. The carnival commemorated their 10-year endeavour in nurturing an asset-led eco-system that supports communities to take ownership of improving their health and wellbeing. Minister of Health, Mr Ong Ye Kung was the Guest of Honour and he did the honours of launching a publication entitled “Caring Communities – Production and Participation by People” that illustrated their work.

From the book, we learnt that in 2017, the Ministry of Health announced its strategy of providing good and affordable healthcare through its vision of 3 “Beyonds.” These notions of Beyond healthcare to health, Beyond hospital to community and Beyond quality to value resonated with us and we are proud to have facilitated 4 initiatives in their Project Registry of 38 community-led efforts.

Radhiyah, a mother of 4 who co-ordinates 269A/B Community Pride which is one of our 4 initiatives was a little overwhelmed by all the attention, but in a good way. The organizers asked her to present the book to Mr Yip Hon Weng, the MP for Yio Chu Kang SMC who was also present as a guest and following which, she was interviewed by the press. It was certainly an unusual afternoon for someone who was only caring for her neighbours as her mother had shown her. Her mother was a grassroots volunteer at Bedok where she lived as a child and extending a helping hand when one could, was just a way of life.

Anyway, Radhiyah explained to Minister Ong and MP Yip how she has been redistributing milk and diapers from donors to 24 families with young children. Apart from meeting practical needs, such resources have encouraged a culture of sharing and mutual support among her neighbours. Every morning greetings are exchanged on their neighborhood WhatsApp group and throughout the day, members exchange information on community resources and activities.

Studies have shown that the quality and quantity of our social relationships affect mental and physical health as well as mortality risk. These relationships can also encourage us to take better care of our health. Health begins in our communities and commensurate with the value we place on being an active member of one.

For peace and community.

Gerard

Goodwill to others is constructive thought. It helps build you up. It is good for your body. It makes your blood purer, your muscles stronger, and your whole form my symmetrical in shape. It is the real elixir of life. – Prentice Mulford

PAST AWB POSTS

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2447 – The Accidental Pianist

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2445 – From Strangers to Friends: A Shared Journey

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I was visiting Meelah, a resident who has led food drives and many social activities to enhance the wellbeing of her neighbours. I listened intently, as she expressed her concern for families that would require assistance. I was touched that she continued to keep track of so many lives in spite of her own declining health. She donned on the new spectacles she had recently afforded and checked her reflection using her phone before looking at me expectantly for a response. “How? I look like a teacher or not?” She exclaimed while tucking some strands of hair behind her ears.

2442 – It Starts with “Hello”

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Every morning, like clockwork, four-year-old Lisa (not her real name) stops by her neighbour’s flat on her way to preschool. She stands at the gate, waiting patiently to say “Hello” to the elderly man who lived there. Known for his stern demeanour and habit of scolding noisy children, this Uncle wasn’t someone most would approach. At first, he ignored her. Undeterred, she stands there, day after day, offering her simple greeting. Then one day, something changed. The Uncle returned her greeting. Soon after, they began sharing quiet moments – sitting together, eating biscuits, and watching TV —always under the watchful