For years, Mdm Yati’s hands have worked tirelessly; kneading away her clients’ aches by day, and holding her children close by night. As a freelance masseuse, she earned around $1,000 a month to support her three children and her elderly mother.

But everything changed when she woke up one morning unable to feel her right hand. The numbness worsened, forcing her to stop work entirely. Doctors have since certified her unfit for work till January 2026, leaving her without income at a time when her family depends entirely on her.

Since separating from her husband, who struggles with substance and gambling issues, Mdm Yati has been caring for her mother, Mdm Rafiah (64), and her three children — Daniel (19), Qistina (11), and Qassandra (2) — on her own.

How She’s Trying

Even now, Mdm Yati refuses to give up. She’s been trying traditional remedies to regain movement in her hand. With every bit of help she receives, she makes sure her children’s needs are met before her own.

Her mother’s health remains fragile, needing frequent follow-up appointments after a recent leg infection which required 9 days of hospitalisation. Despite her own pain, Mdm Yati accompanies her mother to the clinic, determined to keep things going as best she can.

Her middle child, Qistina, has also been struggling. The 11-year-old faces depression, panic attacks, and mood swings. She’s currently attending counselling in school while waiting for a formal diagnosis. Mdm Yati does her best to stay emotionally present for her, even when her own health and finances are stretched thin.

Current Barriers

The family lives in a fully paid 4-room flat left behind by Mdm Yati’s late father, but there are no savings left to draw from. Her mother cannot work due to poor health. Her eldest son is still studying. And with no spousal support, the household has no stable income until Mdm Yati can return to work.

Though SSO has approved assistance for the next three months, there is still a monthly shortfall of $400 and bills continue to add up. From milk and diapers for baby Qassandra to utilities and transport for school.

How can you support?

Mdm Yati simply needs a bridge. Just enough to keep her family afloat until her hand heals and she can work again.

Ray of Hope is raising $1,200 ($400/month) to help Mdm Yati and her family meet their essential needs over the next three months until her next medical review. Mdm Yati has always cared for everyone: her children, her mother, and her clients. Now she needs a little care herself.

Your donation will help keep her home running and her children cared for while she focuses on recovery. With your help, she can regain her strength and return to providing for her family with dignity.

*The campaign goal includes a 1.8% uplift to account for card processing fees incurred by payment providers.