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“The theme today is “Uplift Caregivers, Uplift Community,” because we don’t just want caregivers to do well
“Only we ourselves, can be the writer of the lives we choose to live by. As a special needs caregiver, I choose to embrace it with an open mind and a willing heart.”
When my elder son was born, the entire family was practically on cloud nine as he was the golden grandson, the precious one. Any hint of suspicion that this precious boy might be facing any developmental delays or falling out of “range” was brushed aside. However, as the issues persisted, the instinct to quickly start speech therapy, occupational therapy and customized educational program took over. Imagine doing all this while holding a big tummy with number 2 in tow…
I would never have imagined that I would be blessed with not one, but two special needs children!
For many of us who often questioned why our child is so different from other special needs kids, take it from me when I say that autism is indeed a broad spectrum. With the same home and school environment, same parenting style, the two brothers were polar opposites when it came to their tolerance level to schedule changes, learning preferences, cognitive abilities, and many others.
I’ve since then learned to unlearn the so-called correct ways of handling autistic challenges. To put down my expectations as a mother so deeply invested in their well-being. To let them be themselves so they can gradually carve their unique identity as special individuals in spite of their neurological impediments. To have a willing heart, and an open mind.
These are some pointers that I can share as a caregiver, someone who has been blessed with good spousal and family support, practical and emotional resource pool, as well as a great network of people who simply understands.
As special needs caregivers, conquering the day is not always about this amazing feat or that significant improvement. It is more often than not, being able to achieve some form of peace in the never-ending daily noise and action.
“The theme today is “Uplift Caregivers, Uplift Community,” because we don’t just want caregivers to do well
“The theme today is “Uplift Caregivers, Uplift Community,” because we don’t just want caregivers to do well; we also want the community to be strong. The reason why caregivers chip in is that we are building the community, not just for ourselves, but for our children and future generations.”
CaringSG’s inaugural Family Day took place on 7th September 2024, from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM at the Enabling Village. This special event, in partnership with Enabling Village, Singapore’s first inclusive community space, brings together the public, caregivers, persons with disabilities and their supporters for a day filled with learning, connection, and memorable experiences.
“We are stronger together. Whether it’s joining a support group, marching side by side in the Purple Parade, sharing the healing power of a journal, or simply being there for each other, every action we take, no matter how small, contributes to a more compassionate and resilient community.”
“CaringSG be focusing on providing you more support for mental health and financial resilience—whether it’s self-care, planning for the future, exploring career options, or simply ensuring you have someone to talk to when things get tough.”
In 2024-2025, with support from SG Enable, and in collaboration with the Enabling Services Hubs by SG Enable and partners that aim to bring disability support closer to home, CaringSG will be setting up 10 CAREkaki chapters in 10 constituencies in Singapore.
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