A Lifetime of Memories Lost Overnight

Just two days after celebrating her 70th birthday on 27 July, Cheryl’s life changed forever. “The fire happened just too suddenly,” she recalls, still shaken. Her Toa Payoh flat, her home since 1986, was engulfed in flames, leaving behind nothing but ashes. 

“Everything is gone,” she says quietly.

For Cheryl, her home was more than just a space. It was where she hosted Chinese New Year reunions and welcomed relatives from Hong Kong. Her hall, the room she was most proud of, was often filled with laughter and good food shared among friends. “At the end of the day, it’s the connection that matters,” she reflects, remembering the warm bonds she built since her early days there.

Picking Up the Pieces After the Fire

Despite the devastation, Cheryl is determined to return to her unit. “I stayed there very, very long. I have very good neighbours.” For now, she is staying with her sister and her nephew while waiting for clearance to re-enter her flat for cleaning and renovations. The journey ahead is daunting: she recently discovered there was no insurance coverage on her unit, meaning she must shoulder the full cost of repairs and replacing all her belongings.

Still, Cheryl draws strength from her loved ones. “My colleagues, friends and neighbours immediately called me to check on me. They were so shocked to learn about what happened.” With their encouragement, she has bought some essentials like bedding and clothes to adjust to this new routine while holding onto hope that she can one day rebuild her home.

How You Can Make a Difference

Although the fire left Cheryl shaken, what keeps her going is knowing no one was hurt. Your support can help her regain stability and return to the community she cherishes so deeply. Contributions will go towards renovation, furnishing her home, and easing financial strain during this uncertain time.

The damage to her flat is extensive. A transformation is needed. This includes rewiring, re-piping, repair or replacement of flooring, walls, ceiling, windows, and the loss of essential furnishings and household items. An informal estimate places the cost of renovation and restoration to safe, liveable conditions at approximately $100,000.

Our goal is to raise $100,000 to ease the significant financial burden Cheryl now faces. Every contribution, big or small, will go a long way in helping her rebuild her life.