Club Rainbow (Singapore) Family Retreat 2023

This year, Club Rainbow (Singapore) (CRS) is back with our annual family cruise trip this year! The specially curated event is open to all CRS beneficiaries and their immediate family members only. To ensure that all families get the opportunity to be part of the Club Rainbow Family Retreat experience, priority was given to families who have not been on any CRS-organised overseas family retreat event or cruise in the past. 

During this 4D3N cruise getaway, the workshops and activities organised by CRS on board were for the beneficiaries and families to unwind, learn and forge new friendships.

Our first stop of the getaway, was at Toa Payoh Safra, our families and beneficiaries gathered and play some ice-breaker activities. The different activities had both our beneficiaries and their family members to get up and about to complete their Bingo Sheet. A little competitive spirit is always good, as the families compete against each other to see which team is able to build the tallest structure.

One of the highlights of the 3-Day programme is the self-care programme for the caregivers on Day 2. The session was well received by caregivers, with many sharing that it was very calming, the programme allowed them to self-reflect and open up a new perspective as they look forward in the future. Shared by one of the immediate families of our beneficiaries, “ It is good to have some me time and to self reflect, the activities were useful for us to get back in touch with ourselves and learned that i can be a pillar for my children and at the same time be myself” .

One of the popular activities from the programme is called “Our Wishing Star”, a DIY keychain with folded stars carrying the wishes and hopes that the parents have for their children. Many found that the wishing star was a good and simple way to give their best wishes and hopes to their kids.

Ending the Day 2 programs with a session on self-reflection, our caregivers wrote post cards to themselves. A number of the caregivers has expressed that it allowed them to get to know themselves even better. “ Reflective and recognize our own achievements” shared by one of the caregivers. Sharing a similar mindset, Mdm Ong shared “ they unleash our emotions, thoughts and allows us to express in our own ways.”

The last day activity called for good teamwork, family bonding and getting their creative juices flowing with Club Rainbow Fashion Show! “ Our family had fun and enjoyed bonding time together! ” said Mdm Ong. Through the activity, caregivers have also learned something about their kid that they did not know before. “ My children has a very good team oriented personal” shared by one of the caregivers of our CRS beneficiary.

Through this family retreat, all families have shared that it was a good and fun experience as they got to spend time together as a family, became more close knitted than ever before and also had a enjoyable time participating in the different activities and meeting other Club Rainbow families.

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#R2FR: Cycle Uncles 2.0

Speaking with Mr Jimmy Kwang, a team member of Cycle Uncles 2.0, we learned what
drives him to give back to the community. 

CRS: How did you find out about RFR?

JK: I got to know RFR from a team member, who has been a regular rider for many years. As friends, we all supported him as an individual rider. Only last year did we officially form a team together. We thought that doing things together as a group was more exciting and that together as a team, we could contribute back to the community more significantly.

CRS: How big is your team and are you inviting more friends to join you by signing up for RFR?

Jimmy (left) with members of Cycle Uncles 2.0

JK: This year, our team has expanded to 6 members - an addition of 2 from 2022. We are all friends who share similar traits; former IBMers & colleagues from the same exercise groups on Sundays. Chin Hui and I have been friends for at least 20 years. Although we have moved on to different careers and lives, we continue to keep in contact as a group and try to meet at least once a week to keep fit and have makan sessions together.

CRS: What is your/your team’s training routine?

JK: We don’t have a fixed routine, but we do try to alternate our activities every week - between riding, cycling, and brisk walking. We typically cycle casually for 35-40km around East Coast Park (ECP) or the PCN route. Other times, our cycling route would either be along the east, towards Changi Village, or westbound towards Kallang. It always varies because we like to search for eatery spots. However, we do cycle very early in the morning so some eateries may not be open.    

CRS: Did you/your team set any goals for Ride and Ralk for Rainbows 2023 (#R2FR)?

JK: I believe that as a group, we would use our network to solicit more donors. In terms of our team’s goals, we are simply trying to accomplish our initial target. Now, we are smashing our initial target, hence, we plan to double the amount. I would say that we are quite aggressive considering we are all salespeople in a technology industry. From that, we are very passionate about creating a new baseline for the team to achieve.

CRS: What is something you would like to share with everyone who has yet to sign up for R2FR?

JK: From my perspective, it is dependent on the individual’s passion to give back to the community and generally what the whole event is all about. Fundamentally, it's also about creating awareness and in this case, supporting children with lifelong illnesses.

Personally, after completing my medical treatments and gaining my health back last year, it has become my drive to give back to the community. This is because life is always going to be challenging, however, there will always be someone who is in need more than myself, and you. With this, I believe people can still benefit from me - even just a little.
- Jimmy, Cycle Uncles 2.0

CRS: Could you share words of encouragement for our beneficiaries and their families?

JK: Perseverance is very important. I am a firm believer in the mindset that “The cup is always half full” - as opposed to being half empty. From this, we need to look at things differently and always view challenges and life from a positive perspective. There will always be opportunities and potential for us. Believe in hope, and not give up on it.

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You can make a difference
even though you are not a Rider or Ralker.

Support Ride and Ralk for Rainbows and make a difference today

Local Running Community with Big Hearts

Speaking with Mr Pang Wee Khai, Founder of Enjoy Your Run, we learnt why and how Wee Khai (WK) supports Club Rainbow (Singapore) (CRS).  

CRS: How did the group *Enjoy Your Run* come about?

EYR Team at East Coast Park

WK: Enjoy Your Run (EYR) came about during COVID-19 and the relaxation of the control measures. There was also generally more interest in fitness and wellness. A group of friends with some running background came together and decided that it was perhaps more enjoyable to exercise as a group for motivation because running at times requires tremendous discipline to follow through. So that was how we started to gather in small groups in July 2021, on a monthly basis at East Coast Park. It gradually became a weekly gathering for the passionate runners in the group.

Over time, EYR grew organically both in number of active members and the fitness goals achieved. Besides improving general health, several runners smashed their limitations and set new personal records for running - from middle distances to ultra-marathons. What seemed impossible was made a reality due to the strong bonding and teamwork at EYR, both on and off the running course.

CRS: Why have you decided to raise funds for the children of Club Rainbow, and is there any meaning behind the campaign title "Let the children run"?

EYR founder, Pang Wee Khai

WK: I came across Club Rainbow at NUH when my firstborn was born with a genetic condition many years ago. Although we did not engage their services at that time, we came to know about the existence of such charitable organisations, which provide support to families whose children suffer from chronic illnesses. Due to personal experience, it was meaningful to be able to raise funds for an organisation close to our hearts. In fact, there were two online campaigns done previously before the first group effort in 2022 ->

https://www.giving.sg/campaigns/raceto40-marathon-club-rainbow
https://www.giving.sg/campaigns/bryceton-goes-for-10k

Campaign: EYR 2023

http://Give.asia/EYR2023

CRS: Have your group encountered any challenges in your fundraising journey and how did you overcome those challenges?

WK: Generally, friends are supportive of our collective effort. Of course, there are also many other fundraising campaigns out there. It is more about creating awareness and being sincere about what and why we do it.

In terms of challenges, it is inevitable that injuries may happen in the course of getting stronger and fitter. Like all dream journeys, we may face unforeseen circumstances on the road to better health, especially because many teammates are busy working parents. We learn to be patient and share our burdens with each other. In comparison, the children and families of Club Rainbow go through much tougher challenges, which few people can fully comprehend -- we keep this awareness close to our hearts as we fundraise for their cause. 

CRS: How do you shout out for your campaign?

WK: We have been periodically creating awareness on our social media whenever the situation allows. It was also great that we had help with dollar-for-dollar matching by Tote Board, which gives friends more reasons to support our effort.

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Inspired by Wee Khai’s initiative? You can start your fundraising journey with us today!

• For the least effort in managing initiatives and maximum fun
  Fundraise through Ride and Ralk for Rainbows 2023

• Grow the community with maximum flexibility
  Start your own fundraising initiative like Wee Khai, email contact@clubrainbow.org for more details.

CS2023: The Young Artist Behind The Design

Palette to mix and match

As Club Rainbow’s very own young artist, Jonas has drawn many pieces of artwork and created figures using clays during his free time. Artworks Jonas and his brothers, Lucas and Titus have created over the years have added more colours and uniqueness to the house. As much as he loves all his artworks, names were made for some of his artworks such as a sunflower clay he created. According to his mother, the first piece of artwork created by Jonas was at the age of four and he has been constantly creating pieces of art since then.

Jonas managed to have his artworks exhibited in an exhibition through his school. Not just that, he was also featured in a lifestyle magazine for his artwork. Happiness was reflected on Jonas’ mum’s face as she shared about his achievements and milestones. As the artist of the design that was printed on Travel 2.0: The Travel Organiser, Jonas is the first person to unbox it (Catch the release of the video on Club Rainbow’s Youtube Channel!). The Travel Organiser is a 6-piece set that comes in grey with the design printed in yellow. The designs are small icons Jonas created, including earth, flowers, a blue recycle bin, trees, etc.

Being a recipient of the CRS Talent Development Fund (TDF), Jonas was offered the opportunity to discover his abilities and gradually develop his skills throughout his journey with CRS, attaining accomplishments in the Arts. The fund supports art workshops, and programmes, giving him the lead in assignment opportunities.

For more details on Travel 2.0: The Travel Organiser, visit our Charity Merchandise page.

A son's first hero

Featuring 2022 Exemplary Caregiver Awardee, Mr Gan Keng Aik

Mr Gan, the father of Aloysius Gan, 16, has been awarded the Exemplary Caregiver Award for his efforts in taking care of Aloysius. Mr Gan currently works in physical security at the management level, overseeing the company operations while juggling his responsibilities with his son.

Aloysius, who attends a special needs school, was diagnosed with cerebral palsy at birth. Due to his condition, Aloysius uses a wheelchair and does not have clear speech. But while his motor skills are affected, resulting in reduced finesse in his hands and fingers, Aloysius can independently handle basic tasks in his daily life.

Just like any child, Aloysius’ daily routine revolves around waking up and going to school. Typically, his mother would send him to school and when Mr Gan gets to go into the office later, he spends his morning sending Aloysius to school. In the afternoon, Aloysius’ mum picks him up and sends him to Boccia training until the evening when he will return home for dinner and homework before going to bed. Admirably, Aloysius’ condition has hardly gotten the better of him and against the odds, he has succeeded in representing Singapore on the national team for Boccia and is a Gold medallist in the recent ASEAN Para Games and Asian Youth Para Games.

When Mr Gan takes care of Aloysius, he mentions that one of the most challenging times was the preparation for Aloysius’ Primary School Leaving Exam (PSLE). While his condition does not impact his IQ, Aloysius takes a longer time to grasp concepts and requires lots of practice papers. It was a tedious and repetitive process as Mr Gan had to go through a concept many times. Fortunately, Mr Gan and his wife divide and conquer as they split tasks to efficiently help Aloysius; Aloysius’ mother tackles Mathematics and English while Mr Gan teaches Science. Due to his condition, Aloysius cannot write and has to use a special keyboard that significantly slows him down, warranting almost double the time for each exam paper.

While it can get arduous at times, Mr Gan shares that the most important aspect of caring for Aloysius is finding out how to nurture and mentor him to inculcate the right attitude toward life; to ensure Aloysius has resilience and determination such that despite other people viewing him differently, he can nonetheless rise above it and accomplish his goals. Whether Aloysius succeeds or fails at doing something, Mr Gan always encourages Aloysius. He commends him or motivates him to try again so that Aloysius learns and grows from his experiences.

As a father holding a full-time job, Mr Gan may need to travel overseas for work once every 1 or 2 months. However, he finds that there is always a choice in life and does not feel stressed or burdened to take care of Aloysius. Although Mr Gan may be busy, he actively spends time with his family when he is off work or entire Saturdays with Aloysius in Boccia training. Whether it is family, friends or hobbies, he believes it is a personal preference to choose how time is spent and he chooses his family. Mr Gan feels the most joy when he bonds with Aloysius. Going overseas for competitions allows him to spend quality father-son time with Aloysius. Some of the most meaningful experiences Mr Gan holds dear include the adventure and little moments he shares with his son because whether it is victory or defeat, he sticks by his son. They will win, lose, suffer and share the glory together.

To him, it is the journey that counts, not the destination.

Thanks to Club Rainbow’s support, Aloysius has been receiving funding through the Talent Development Fund (TDF) over the last few years, enabling them to purchase better Boccia equipment and balls for training and competitions that boost Aloysius’ gameplay.

Lastly, Mr Gan wants to tell the world that whether it is cerebral palsy or other illnesses, it remains up to the individual to decide what it means for their life. With the support of family and friends, any child can realise their dream and not let their condition limit them. Mr Gan believes that everyone has the right to chase their dream and live a fulfilled life.

Among other competitions, Aloysius will be playing for Singapore in the 2023 ASEAN Para Games. We wish the father-son duo the best of luck and hope that you can share their story with your friends and family to raise awareness and support them in their journey.

Written by: HCI Project Butterfly Effect
Edited by: Club Rainbow (Singapore)

A brother's unconditional love

Featuring 2022 Exemplary Sibling Awardee, Shuy Yao Kang

Yao Kang, 21, is the brother of Shuy Yao An, 14, and has been awarded the Exemplary Sibling Award for taking care of Yao An. Yao Kang is currently at Nanyang Technological university studying medicine while juggling his studies and his responsibilities with his brother.

Yao An has MELAS (Mitochondrial Encephalopathy, Lactic Acidosis, and Stroke-like episodes) which is a condition that affects 1 in 4000 people and results in an accumulation of lactic acid in the blood (lactic acidosis), that can lead to vomiting, abdominal pain, fatigue, muscle weakness and difficulty breathing.  It takes away a person’s bodily functions, making Yao An incapable of walking and unable to consume food through his mouth. As a result, Yao An has to use a specially-designed pushchair to move around and the usage of a feeding tube to get his daily nutrients. Further, he also suffers from seizures, which are hazardous because they can lead to his getting injured, such as a hard impact on the head or a fall. Despite Yao An's inability to express himself verbally, his family can still decipher what he is thinking by reading his body language.

Even though most of Yao An’s basic needs are taken care of by his parents and helper, Yao Kang still tries to help out as much as possible daily. Some of his duties include helping Yao An with his hygiene and changing his clothes. Although these may sound easy, they are no easy task as Yao An is 14 years old, and is of similar build to the youth of his age and it is not easy for Yao Kang to manoeuvre Yao An alone. This is especially difficult while helping him shower as Yao Kang has to hold his brother up for an extended period and shift him around. For meals, Yao An has to eat through a feeding tube so Yao Kang has to prepare the food in advance and plan his time around Yao An’s meal time. Apart from meals, Yao Kang also ensures that his brother takes all the prescribed medications at the correct times and dosage. Throughout the day, Yao Kang uses spare pockets of time in his packed schedule to interact with his brother and carry out activities with him.

On a day-to-day basis, Yao Kang does not feel too stressed by his responsibilities in taking care of his brother as the nature of his brother's condition follows a fairly consistent routine every day, and hence very predictable on what to expect. However, Yao An’s future is still uncertain as his condition and needs may change. As a result, Yao Kang finds it difficult to make long-term plans as he is not sure of when his help may be needed to look after his brother.

Through his years of taking care of his brother, the most important lesson that Yao Kang has learnt is to make the best of what you have and to live life in the present without wishing that things were different.

Lastly, Yao Kang wants to share with the world that individuals with alike conditions to Yao An have feelings too even though it is not easy for them to express. Just like us, they have their interests and we have to find out how to meet those interests by reading their non-verbal cues. Even if they seem uninterested in what we are doing for them, they are incredibly grateful for any help and interaction we can give to them.  

As we wish Yao An and Yao Kang all the best, we also hope that you can share their stories with your friends and family to raise awareness and support Club Rainbow beneficiaries and families in their journey.

Ride for Rainbows 2022 and 30th Anniversary Birthday Bash

Club Rainbow (Singapore)’s biggest event of the year, Ride for Rainbows 2022 and the 30th Anniversary Birthday Bash have successfully concluded on 27 November 2022.

The physical Ride for Rainbows is back after being virtual for 2 years due to the COVID-19 pandemic!

In conjunction with Club Rainbow (Singapore)’s 30th Anniversary, this year's edition for Ride for Rainbows is met with a hybrid format, giving our riders the flexibility to participate in a physical or virtual ride. We also had a birthday bash carnival with a tons of carnival games and rides at the end of the physical ride to celebrate this very special day and spend a fun filled day with our beneficiaries and their families!

On that day, there were over 600 participants and volunteers who turned up at Marina Barrage. This includes 78 families, close to 200 riders and over 100 staff and volunteers.

With that, we would like to take this opportunity to express our utmost gratitude to all our supporting parties, including our beneficiaries and their families, sponsors, riders, donors, staff and volunteers! This event would not be possible without everyone’s help and support. 

We hope to see you all again for Ride for Rainbows next year!

Please email rfr@clubrainbow.org to be a part of Ride for Rainbows next year!

Club Rainbow (Singapore) Family Retreat

We had the SUN, the SEA and all (Club Rainbow) Hearts on board the Spectrum of the Seas!
Our annual family retreat is back!

Bouncing back from the pandemic, Club Rainbow (Singapore) (CRS) is much pleased to bring back the annual family cruise trip this year! The specially curated event is open to all CRS beneficiaries and their immediate family members only. To ensure that all families get the opportunity to be part of the Club Rainbow Family Retreat experience, priority was given to families who have not been on any CRS-organised overseas family retreat event or cruise in the past. 

During this 4D3N cruise getaway, the workshops and activities organised by CRS on board were for the beneficiaries and families to unwind, learn and forge new friendships. The ice-breaker activity saw both young and young at heart getting up and about, scouring around to complete their Bingo sheet.  

One of the highlights of the 3-Day programme is the self-care programme for the caregivers on Day 2. The session was well received by caregivers, with many sharing that it was a good opportunity to reflect, self-comfort and relax. They had an enjoyable time, chatting and laughing with other Club Rainbow parents making reference to being like a big family. Miss Ng, an immediate family member of one beneficiary shared, ‘Time to reflect on me. Do a gift for my child. Write a card to encourage myself and self-meditate time. Best of all, 2 hours away from kids to relax (no worries as we know they are well taken care of by CRS)’.

The most popular activity among the caregivers is the DIY keychain with folded stars carrying the wishes and hopes that the parents have for their children. Many found it to be therapeutic and meaningful. For one parent, the activity showed them how much their son has achieved. Apart from penning their thoughts and wishes for their children, expressing heartfelt feelings into a keepsake was memorable for the parents. Mdm Yeap, mother of a beneficiary looks beyond positively, making new goals and hopes for 2023.

In closing the Day 2 session with self-encouragement, a number of caregivers expressed that they have never once thought of writing to themselves as they are constantly focused on caring for their special need child. ‘I seldom think about my own strength. A bit blank initially as I was not used to self-encouragement but it is good exercise’, shared Mdm Elvira. With much emphasis on the importance of a self-care routine, Mr Teo, father of a CRS beneficiary mentioned that the postcard writing activity helped him with self-care check-in of his own mental health and well-being. Resonating with Mr Teo’s sharing, Mdm Chew was happy that she learned to self-appreciate, ‘I love myself more, my well-being.’

Day 3 shouts out for teamwork and family bonding through the Club Rainbow Fashion Show. ‘Fun & innovative. We are glad to be able to design & create something special!’ said Miss Ng, the immediate family member of the CRS beneficiary. Many inclusive activities are planned to encourage parent-child engagement, ‘Quality time together is so precious. Thank you for organising!’ shared gratefully by Ms Lai, a mother of a CRS beneficiary.

All the families agreed with both mothers of CRS beneficiaries, Mdm Yap and Mdm Lee that the retreat was ‘Enjoyable, refreshing. I feel happy.’ and more importantly ‘We do things as a family!’.

Born Differently For A Purpose

Club Rainbow’s 2022 Education Award recipients Sharvani and Raphael were pleasantly surprised and over the moon when they were notified about their academic milestones and achievement. While this academic journey was mentioned to have been stressful, our recipients have pushed themselves to not give up, and instead, strive to excel and be outstanding.

Club Rainbow is pleased that this Education Award serves as a symbol and reminder for Sharvani to fight on and be confident, because as Sharvani mentioned, “everyone is born differently for a purpose”. This grit has been backed up by Sharvani’s caregiver Mdm Mageletchumei, who constantly reminds him that he is not alone, encourages, and supports him in his studies with the necessary facilities, time and even an evening remedy of healing music in order for him to thrive and be comfortable.

Mdm Carol, Raphael’s caregiver also believes that the Education Award gives extra encouragement, recognizing improvements made by children like her son. While Raphael faced some obstacles through his learning journey, it was through Club Rainbow’s play therapy sessions that Mdm Carol was more informed about Raphael’s need for greater structure and discipline, equipping her with the knowledge and wisdom to better guide Raphael. Together with Raphael’s determination, this has pushed him to attain this academic achievement.

Mdm Carol also mentioned her gratefulness for Club Rainbow’s caregiver sessions that were personally beneficial for herself, where she got the opportunity to engage in various new and creative activities such as art therapy, tea sessions and even embroidery. Just like how she has been blessed by Club Rainbow’s services, her hopes and wishes are for Raphael to be a blessing to others and to give back and volunteer with Club Rainbow when he is older.

Club Rainbow recognizes the importance of such caregiver support, and Mdm Mageletchumei has also echoed such sentiments, advising parents to constantly affirm themselves, and to never shortchange their efforts and love poured into their children’s lives.

Mdm Mageletchumei strongly believes that no child’s education should be jeopardized under any circumstances, and advocates for parents to speak up and fight for the rights of their children. This way, children will gain more confidence in themselves. Mdm Carol’s thoughts also resonate with this and advise parents to manage their expectations of children, and most importantly to not be stressed out, as it is ultimately a journey and process at the end of the day.

From Family to Society

Hean Lee is a distributor and wholesaler of handy electronic and electrical household products ranging from power adapters, portable fans, rice cookers, and many more. Its products, marketed under the Soundteoh Electronic brand, can be found on the shelves of major electronic retailers, including Giant Supermarkets, Best Denki, and Courts. The company has a sweeping presence in several Southeast Asian countries.

We recently had the opportunity to speak to Hean Lee's Director, Mr. Kelvin Lee, to find out more about the company's perspectives on corporate social responsibility following its first charity collaboration with Club Rainbow in conjunction with SG Cares Giving Week.  

“Everyone to think positively and cherish every day. We should always look forward to tomorrow as miracles could happen.”

— Mr Kelvin Lee, Director of Hean Lee

Founded in 1957 by old Mr. Lee Hian Cheong, Hean Lee is now managed by the third generation of the Lee family. Philanthropy has always been part of the family culture as old Mr Lee donated money to build schools, shelters, and roads in Xiamen, his hometown that he left at a young age to escape from the widespread poverty and famine in China. Mr Kelvin Lee and his brother wanted to continue the family legacy of giving back to society after they started helming Hean Lee. They did so mainly by creating and supplying products that they felt were in line with the latest technology to add convenience to users and by partnering with local businesses and communities to help build brand awareness.

Some of Hean Lee's corporate social responsibility efforts included cross-promotions with local businesses and the sponsorship of home-grown football team Geylang International FC. While Hean Lee used to focus mainly on supporting local brands, they made a slight pivot to focus more on people following the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic. Hean Lee donated valuable items such as face shields and portable fans to improve the working conditions of healthcare frontline workers who had to work in sweltering temporary medical setups.

In November 2021, Hean Lee partnered with Club Rainbow on a budding artist program as part of the SG Cares Giving Week. As a result, the artwork of an 11-year-old Club Rainbow beneficiary was chosen as the packaging design of Hean Lee's wireless AC-operated doorbell. Mr. Kelvin Lee found it an intriguing process as a business rarely collaborated with a charitable organisation on its product packaging. With the success of the first collaboration, Hean Lee was considering extending or launching similar partnerships with Club Rainbow in the future.  

Hean Lee sincerely hoped the collaboration could help create more awareness and support for Club Rainbow. Their efforts in corporate social responsibility also led to Soundteoh Electronic being awarded the Singapore Prestige Brand Award 2020/2021 Established Brand Award. When asked for words of encouragement for the young beneficiaries of Club Rainbow, Mr. Kelvin Lee encouraged everyone to think positively and cherish every day. We should always look forward to tomorrow as miracles could happen.

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Should your company or organisation wish to support our children and their families, please email us for a discussion: contact@clubrainbow.org