A Lifeline of Love: Standing by Each Other Through Life’s Trials

When Mr. Gazalee and Mdm. Ulfah married in 2000, they dreamt of building a life filled with love and simple joys. Their journey was filled with shared hopes but life had challenges in store that tested their devotion.

A Health Crisis that Changed Everything

In 2013, Mdm Ulfah was diagnosed with end-stage kidney failure, marking the start of ongoing dialysis treatment. Over the years, her health deteriorated further, with a heart condition, the loss of a finger in 2022, and a suspected recent diagnosis of dementia. Despite this, her husband stood by her side as a constant caregiver and source of strength.

Going back to school to be a better caregiver

Mr Gazalee went back to school in 2020, to take a short course in anatomy and physiology at Ngee Ann Polytechnic (NP) to learn how to better take care of Mdm. Ulfah. “I may not be a doctor,” he said, “but i want to take care of my wife because I’m her husband.” His love for her has driven his every action, even as his own health started to decline. 

Battling his own health struggles

In 2023, Mr Gazalee was diagnosed with a rare blood cancer (polycythemia rubra vera). The side effects of his medication includes frequent fevers, worsening sleep apnea and fatigue, forcing him to stop working in May 2024. Yet, in spite of his challenges, he resumed working part-time to ease their financial burden. 

The weight of financial strain:

The couple’s financial situation has become overwhelming. A domestic helper is essential with wheelchair transfers and medical appointments. Even with Mdm. Ulfah’s CPF payouts, they face $420 monthly expense for groceries, meals, transportation, and caregiving essentials. These costs have stretched the beyond their means.

How you can help

Ray of Hope aims to raise $2,520 to cover six months of living assistance for Mr. Gazalee and Mdm. Ulfah, ensuring they have access to basic needs and some relief from the current situation. 

They’ve stood by each other through everything. Today, you can stand by them and offer the care and stability they can’t afford alone.