Vaccinations were introduced in Singapore when I was one, but my parents never thought I would contract polio, and never brought me to get one. It started with just a fever and sore throat. By the time my parents
found out, my right arm and leg had already been affected.
Previously, I got around with a walking stick, but switched to a motorised wheelchair as my legs were getting weaker and I kept falling. I was afraid at first, especially when it got stuck in
the MRT platform gap. Now, I even race to the bus stop in it to get home more quickly!
I’ve been living alone for the past 14 years. My husband passed away from heart and kidney failure in 2000. Sometimes I feel sad when I can’t manage at home, as I don’t have
mobility in my right hand. Thankfully, one neighbour always offers to help.
Before Bizlink, I worked at an electronics company, but was retrenched during the 1995 economic downturn. I couldn’t cope financially after that, so my friends told me about Bizlink. I’ve
made many friends here – it feels like a family. Younger colleagues also look up to me, which is a very nice feeling. Right now, I’m doing a computer literacy course, and hope to improve my typing
skills so I can take on a data-entry job.
However,the most important things I’ve gained from Bizlink Centre are the feelings of achievement, satisfaction, and most importantly, independence.All these – money can’t buy.
A philanthropic gift of $250,000 can support Wendy and others like her at Bizlink Centre – which provides training and meaningful employment for people with disabilities who are not ready or suitable for
open employment. Those in the sheltered workshop programme go through structured vocational training before starting on sub-contract work in a supported environment that lets them earn a salary, receive
CPF and other work benefits. Your donation will go a long way in helping them strive for independence through their work at Bizlink Centre.