Brotherly Love

While in hospital because of kidney failure, Ah Jong received a visit from his brother-in-law, Chuan Hin. He was amazed when Chuan Hin offered to donate a kidney to him. Ah Jong said that such an altruistic gesture is in line with Chuan Hin’s character of being a very kind and giving person.



The ties that bind After undergoing tests, Chuan Hin was found to be a suitable donor and the transplant was carried out successfully. Ah Jong took about six months to recover fully. He gradually started exercising again and can now travel frequently for his work as an insurance agent. Said Ah Jong, “I often remind my children that from now onwards, we must take care of Ah Gu’s (maternal uncle in Hokkien) family, because of his sacrifice for me. No matter what happens to Ah Gu, my children must make sure that they take care of his wife and daughter, and treat them like their own family.”

Repaying a Debt of Love Chuan Hin’s father passed away from cancer when he was only seven years old. When he was 15 years old, his sister started dating Ah Jong, who is about 10 years older than him. Ah Jong took care of Chuan Hin and his siblings by helping them with their schoolwork, giving them tuition and taking them out on excursions. To Chuan Jin, Ah Jong has always been like an older brother. “When I visited Ah Jong in the hospital, I was shocked to see him so weak and frail, especially since he had always been so active. I could not bear to see him go through the suffering of dialysis. As he had helped me so much since we were young, I feel it is time to do something for him. Besides, it is not every day that one gets to save a life. I can survive on just one kidney, why not donate a kidney to him?”

Fast Recovery Chuan Hin recovered very quickly after the operation. He keeps fit through cycling, swimming, bowling and jogging. “I am glad I can donate my kidney as I am healthy and have no health problems. If you want to save a life and help someone else, you need to ensure that you are in good health first. Only then can you help others.”