A Life Turned Around for Love

At 67 years old, Roy’s story is one of redemption and devotion. After a troubled past, his life took a transformative turn when his daughter was born in 2010. Determined to be the father she deserved, Roy committed himself to turning over a new leaf and providing for his family.

“I don’t have much time left. I hope I can live up to 80,” Roy shares. Starting his family later in life, he clings to the hope of spending as much time as possible with his wife and daughter, building a brighter future together.

A Family Divided by Distance

As financial constraints have made it impossible for them to move to Singapore.. For 14 years, the family has adapted to this challenging arrangement, cherishing their precious time together. “I only spend 96 days a year with my family,” Roy reflects.

Every Friday evening, Roy boards a ferry to visit his family, returning to Singapore on Monday morning. Though the journey is exhausting, he willingly endures it to fulfill his role as a father and husband. “Every one of us wishes to be with our family 24/7,” he says. This routine is his way of preserving their bond.

Struggles Weighing on a Father’s Shoulders

Roy currently works at a Christian charity organisation that supports ex-offenders, where he receives food and accommodation. This allows him to send almost his entire salary to his wife and daughter, covering their living costs and his daughter’s school expenses. Despite stretching every dollar, rising medical costs have strained the family’s finances.

Roy’s wife has been diagnosed with glaucoma, and his daughter suffers from anaemia, which led to a life-threatening episode of severe blood loss. The hormonal imbalances caused by anaemia have also resulted in extensive hair loss. Both mother and daughter require fortnightly medical visits, adding to the family’s mounting expenses.

Roy himself is battling liver problems, which cause constant backaches, acid reflux, and dizzy spells. “My only hope is to spend more time with them,” Roy confides. Despite his health challenges, he continues to work tirelessly to maintain his connection with his family. 

Your Support Keeps a Family Together

Ray of Hope previously supported Roy in June and December 2023, enabling him to visit his family despite post-COVID travel cost surges. However, with rising financial demands and high ferry expenses, Roy needs help again.

Ray of Hope is fundraising $5,688 to cover Roy’s ferry expenses ($284) and basic living expenses ($190) for 12 months in 2025. This support is crucial due to the family’s extenuating circumstances—given their health challenges and financial stress, it is more important than ever for them to connect regularly. This assistance will allow Roy to continue his weekly visits to Batam, ensuring he remains present during these critical years with his teenage daughter. Supporting his living expenses also helps him sustain his daily needs amidst his family’s increasing financial burden.

“I hope to build a future for my family, to be there for them as much as possible, and see my daughter grow up,” Roy says. At 67, he knows time is not on his side, but his commitment to his family is unwavering. 

A Call to Action

Your donation can help Roy stay connected with his family, keeping their bond strong through life’s challenges. “Every one of us wishes to be with our family 24/7,” Roy reminds us. Together, we can give him the gift of time and love with his wife and daughter.

Support Roy today and be part of his journey to build a future where love triumphs over adversity.