Yi Jie was diagnosed with Thalassemia Major when he was 15-months-old. Our social worker, Sylvia, had been journeying with Yi Jie since he was a preschooler till he graduated last year, ensuring that he received the necessary supports he needed to live an enriching life. We caught up with Yi Jie to understand more about the educational assistance he received from Club Rainbow.
1) What have you been up to since you graduated from Club Rainbow?
YJ: I am studying in Nanyang Polytechnic School of Health and Social Sciences. This is my final year and I will be graduating in May.
2) When you were a beneficiary, did you attend tuition provided by Club Rainbow?
YJ: Yes, I attended tuition when I was in Primary and Secondary School.
3) Do you face any difficulty in your studies due to your medical condition?
YJ: Growing up, I spent my days at KKH for regular check-ups and monthly blood transfusions. My weak
immune system meant that I had to be hospitalized on several instances. Now that I am older, I do occasionally fall sick due to my low immunity. But usually I will still attend school and take care of myself. Now,
I still have to go for blood transfusions every 4 weeks and I will try my best to arrange my medical appointment after school or on weekends.
4) Despite your medical conditions, you have shown resilience in pursuing your academics and has even received the Education Award several times. May I know which are the education awards that you had
received?
YJ: I had received several education awards from Club Rainbow such as the Progress Award for a few years
as my grades were always what I aimed for.
5) Has receiving the education awards helped you in any way?
YJ: The awards motivated me to challenge myself to do better every time. The cash I received went into my savings and was also used for the purchase of study materials.
6) Any word of advice for children of Club Rainbow who may be facing difficulties in their studies due to their condition?
YJ: "Don't ever stop believing in yourself. When you fail, don't stop there. Get up and aim further."