Our Story

"Even it takes us more time togain the same level of accomplishments as others, we caregivers still have the ability to reach the finish line."

For every mother, children are like seedlings, both vital and vulnerable. Mothers do their utmost to create a safe and nurturing environment for their children to thrive and grow joyfully. However, for mother of children with special needs, how do they pave their way to a happy and healthy life?

On this beautiful day, Chan Hon-kit and his mother Cho Shing-yuk, along with Ho Pak-hin and mother Leung Shuk-ling, participated in a planting activity at the Hong Chi Love Garden to enjoy precious time together in nature.

Full Time Caregivers

Hon-kit, Shing-yuk's first-born son, was diagnosed with moderate intellectual disability at a young age. As a new mother, Shing-yuk chose to dedicate all her time to take care of her son. However, people didn't necessarily understand her feelings as a caregiver. "It makes me sad when I hear others comparing him to other children." Despite people's opinions, she remains optimistic. All that she wants is for Hon-kit to live happily.

Shuk-ling, Pak-hin's mother, is also a full-time caregiver. "I aspired to have my own career and had hope for my son to go to university." At the age of two, Pak-hin was diagnosed with developmental delay. Shuk-ling quitted her job and tried various training to help her son, hoping for improvement before he turned five. However, Pak-hin was eventually diagnosed with limited intelligence. 30 years have passed, every progress her son makes is a driving force for Shuk-ling to learn different training methods.

Growing Together

Albeit being a caregiver, Shing-yuk and Shuk-ling believe that nurturing children is a process of mutual growth. Hon Kit has difficulty in controlling his emotions. Helping her son navigate his emotional turbulence has taught Shing-yuk to be patient and loving to

others. "I used to focus more on myself, but since taking care of my son, I've learned to reach out more and care for others." She hopes to lead as an example and create an accepting environment for her son by maintaining a positive attitude towards him.

As for Shuk-ling, Pak-hin has changed the way she sees life. Shuk-ling finds joy in hiking with Pak-hin as it allows him to stay connected to the world. "Hiking has changed me in a positive way. Back in the days, I tended to compare myself to others, but this experience made me realize that even it takes us more time to gain the same level of accomplishments as others, we caregivers still have the ability to reach the finish line."

Guarding Together

Hon-kit and Pak-hin are both trainees at the Hong Chi District Support Centre-N.T. (North District) and have received training at the centre for years. Shing-yuk believes that the training not only calms Hon-kit's emotions but also teaches him to show care to others. As for Pak-hin, who has always felt labeled, Shuk-ling believes that art training boosts his confidence and allows him to see the way he evaluates aesthetics aligns with how he sees himself through his own lens. Shing-yuk and Shuk-ling are grateful to have the Association as their supportive companion in this journey.

Live in The Moment

When asked what message they would like to give to fellow caregivers, both gave the same answer: "Live In The Moment"."Challenges come everyday. Maintain a positive attitude and focus on what needs to be done for today," Shing-yuk encouraged other mothers. "I hope to cherish the time left to take more photos with Hon-kit , so he can look back and remember that I will always support him." Soon after, Hon-kit gave amarigold flower to Shing-yuk, putting a smile to her face.

Shuk-ling described the journey with Pak-hin as "wonderful." "It is full of surprises! The world is vast, and I hope all caregivers can connect with society and live a fulfilling and enjoyable life!"

Shing-yuk and Shuk-ling dedicate their lives to take care of their children. Their positivity, warm personality and stamina have cultivated such a loving and accepting environment for their children to learn, be happy and thrive. Although Hon-kit and Pak-hin may lead different lives, Shing-yuk and Shuk-ling have paved a way for their children to live healthily and happily.

We sincerely hope that the general public could show support and love for our caregivers and join this meaningful journey in supporting people with intellectual disabilities.