Caring for a child with special needs is never easy, but this single mum has to singlehandedly care for two children who were diagnosed with spastic dystonic quadriplegia at birth. This condition is particularly severe that the children are marked by the inability to use their legs, arms and body.

The divorced single mum of quadruplets struggles to make ends meet with the medical conditions of her child. Due to severe prematurity, 3 of her children are born with such condition and only one of them is born normal with his motor skills slightly impaired. Unfortunately, Melissa lost her oldest son in 2014. The single mum of 3 is having financial difficulties despite working hard and putting in 14 hours every day (8am-10pm), working as a clinic assistant at two clinics.

Long working hours from work have exhausted the single mum who tries her utmost best to provide for her 3 kids. Melissa confided in us that she barely has any time of respite. The immense amount of stress has also taken a toll on her mental health as she is diagnosed with early stage of depression. On days where she has to work, she clocks in long hours, leaving her exhausted at the end of the day. On the other hand, during her off days, she often has to bring her children out for medical appointments.

The bulk of her salary goes towards paying for the helpers’ salary and levy. Melissa told us that this is the only way she can think of, where she can both be independent working and at the same time, knows that her children are being well cared for. Due to the kids’ severe conditions, they are dependent on all aspects of daily living and are unable to express their needs. Both kids are placed in different centres, thus Melissa felt it was a necessity to hire two helpers as their conditions require 24/7 close monitoring and care.

Melissa could have easily saved on the money, quit her current job and be reliant on social support, but the single mum believes in being resilient and independent. Through our conversations with her, we found a loving and strong mum behind her petite frame.

Financial Breakdown

Ray of Hope would like to support the single mum by helping to raise $3,000 ($500 x 6 months) to help Melissa to partially offset the deficit in her monthly expenses. Please give hope and donate to help her family!