Goodbye 2005, Hello 2006!

2005 flies extremely fast. Before I knew it, it's the last day of the year. This year has been a good year for me, though there were some months when I was sick and down.

I was really happy that I got the chance to visit Kuala Lumpur 3 times this year. That was the best time for me, though this 3 trips was very tiring for me.

The first time was in 22-23 April 05 when I went with my expupil friends from Spastic Centre. We spend 2 days and 1 night at Hotel Maluri. We went down by a tour bus a there were 40 of us, (disabled friends, family memebers, teachers and volunteers). The places we visited were Kuala Lumpur City Centre (KLCC) shopping mall, Petronas Twin Tower, Kuala Lumpur Tower, Science Centre and a drive to Putrajaya.

At Petronas Twin Tower, we went up until 44th floor, where the bridge was. The view from the bridge was absolutely beautiful. I never imagine myself up there till that very day. Everything was so thiny when I looked down. After caming down, we went to KLCC shopping mall. The things were very expensive, what we could do was window shopping. At night we visited KL Tower which we went up to the 88th floor (at the very top) The beautiful scenery of KL city lights was amazing! The next day we visited the Science Centre and before we leave for Penang, we took a drive to Putrajaya.

My 2nd trip to KL was in 22-30 July 05 for nine days for Boccia training and a friendly tournement with Hong Kong team which consists of 6 disabled friends, all on wheelchairs. Boccia is similar as Lawn Ball, but Boccia is a sport for Cerebral Palsy (disabled friends) who are on wheelchairs and can cordinate with hands and our mind. Recently Boccia sport open a category for non Cerebral Palsy, that is why I was choosen to enter this sport. I didn't regret or disappointed for not winning any medals, but I was happy that I gain more experience from the training and friendship KL, Johor and Hong Kong disabled friends.

My third trip was with my Faith & Light friends. We went down for the weekend on the 29-30 Oct 05 for a church Pilgrimage at St. Jude in Rawang. 6 friends and I went down by van (5 disabled friends and 2 able body friends). . The reason we went to KL was to joint with Petaling Jaya and Cheras community for the Pilgrimate. After the Pilgrimate, all of us adjourned to Templer's Park for a picnic. Both KL community cooked the food for that afternoon. There was a stream of river by the side where we were have our picnic. Some of our disabled friends and able body friends went down for a smim as it was a very hot day.

In the evening after dinner, few of my disabled friends requested to go to KLCC as they had never been there before. My friends wish was granted so all of us together with some KL friends. Inspite of my tiring body, I enjoyed the evening outing.

Even though all this outing maybe nothing to some people, but it was really a special time for me as I met and make new friends. I had a wonderful time. If it's GOD's will, I hope in 2006 I may able to go further than Kuala Lumpur. I love to travel and see places. The advanture is out there!

P/S : The photos were taken during Boccia training/competition and the Pilgrimate.

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A beautiful dream came true

Mr. Sasaki dropped us off at the departure hall. It was a very sad time when we had to say to goodbye to him and I thank him for everything that one week and gave him a hug before we left. We check into the counter one hour before boarding the plane and the. I went to the rest room before we checked into the plane. You cannot imagine how modern the disabled rest room was? It was really big and clean and there was 2 buttons at the wall to open and close the door. The buttons was not only inside the toilet but outside too. I was really amazed when see it. Ai Na took me round the airport as there was still time. Mum took a rest. When we heard them calling my name, we rushed to check in. It took us at least half an hour before the rest of the passengers board the plane.

Our plan was TG641 and it took off about 12.15pm. When I was in the plane I felt very sad as my beautiful dream has come to an end and I had to say goodbye to beautiful Japan. Tears nearly flow out my eyes, but luckily it didn’t or else it would be embarrassing to the people there. It took 7 hours to reach Singapore, but when we arrived Singapore airport, we couldn’t land as there was a heavy rain so our plane had to go round in the air for few times before landing At last we landed, but we were one hour late so rush down to catch our plane from Singapore. We were in such a rush when we left the plane that we forget to take my pillow along and left in on the seat. Luckily I had got some minutes to go to the rest room before boarding the plane to Penang. We let other passengers went in first so I was the last to get in. Our plane was SQ997 landed at Penang airport safely about 9.30pm. Denis came to fetched us home. We thank Ai Na for all her help during our stay there.

We arrived home about 10pm. I was really happy we reached home safely as I was very tired of the whole day’s trip. I really thank God for this wonderful trip I had experience. I have never been happier before in my entire life. I enjoyed the company of all the kind people, had lots of good food and enjoyed the Autumn season. I thank God for all these people who sponsor us for this trip and made this a memorable time that I may never forget.

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A sad morning

Day 6 - 6th Oct 03 - Goodbye Japan

It was a very sad day as we were going back. Mum and I got up early that morning as we prepared and got me ready and we have to arrive at Narita Airport by 10am. Our plane was to board at 12 noon. We had quick breakfast at the hotel café. After got everything ready Mr. Sasaki came to fetched us after dropping the Thai group at the airport. It was quite sad that I didn’t get the chance to say goodbye to Non and the rest of the Thai group. I thought we were going to airport at the same time, but later I knew that their plane left an hour earlier.

The Korean group went together with us as their plane was an hour later than us. Narita airport was only less than 10mins drive from Excel Hotel. Since Narita Airport was very big, we went into the first terminal instead of the second. Then we realise it was the wrong one and rushed to the other terminal.

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A great day

I believe everyone felt very tired and not me alone. The hotel which we stayed for that night was near to Disneyland and Narita Airport. It was called Excel Hotel. While waiting to check into our rooms, I saw many air stewards and stewardess came into the hotel with their baggages. So I knew they must be spending their nights there while on duty.

To my surprise, our room was big with two queen size bed and couch for guest to rest. The most disappointing thing was their toilet was as small and narrow like the two previous hotels. I thought since the hotel was much bigger and nicer, their toilet must be bigger but it was the same. Anyhow, it was only one night so we had to bear with it.

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A day that I will never forget

Many people were already queuing up near the garden to see the lights’ parade. We were luckily that we go the front row. I believe some of the disabled friends from Korea couldn’t see much as their wheelchairs were behind me. The lights’ parade started within 20mins. One by one, the car came out with beautiful decorated Disney animated animals. It was very beautiful! I never imagine myself watching the parade or even enter the Disneyland.

Before we left Disneyland we took our last group photos. At that time I was very tired and my back was killing me. When we walked back to the car park Ai Na had to tilted my wheelchair while wheeling me.

It was such a wonderful and remembrance day at Disneyland that when Ai Na turned me back to see the last glance. I wish I would get the chance to go back again. The bus took a while to enter the car park as there were still a lot of cars. I couldn’t sit anymore at that time as my back was aching and my body was very stiff due to sitting the whole day.

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A breeze evening

We were supposed to go back after seeing Mickey’s House, but Mr. Sasaki decided to let us stay on as there was a parade at night. So we all had some time before dinner and everyone went their own way as were yet many things to see. We were to meet at certain time for dinner. The air was very cold and fresh that evening. The breeze kept coming towards us and I had such a nice feeling. I have never felt such weather before in my entire life. Ai Na took mum and I round another side of the place where it was very beautiful. By 5.30pm, it was already getting dark. We went to see the trademark of Disneyland and other beautiful statues’ and took many photos.

After seeing all the many beautiful things, we went back to our meeting place where and we had our dinner restaurant. It was such a beautiful restaurant with many people inside. Luckily, there was still couple of tables’ left, so we filled in the place. While ordering our food, mum and I made a call home and but no one answer, so we called Janice’s house and luckily she was in. We talked for a while and told her about our flight the next day.

When we came back, the food was served at our table. We had to have a quick dinner as we wanted to watch the parade. When we went out, the lights all over the place was so beautiful. Since we still have some time, Ai Na and Mr. Hee took me for a walk to the nearby shops and I bought a few soveniour. You cannot imagine there were so many people inside the small shops.

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Mickey and I!!!

At 4.30pm we had passes to get into Mickey’s house. But before that, all of us went separate ways to see what they want see. At that time, my back was already killing me. Guess what? I got a place to rest my body for a very short while. It was on the side bench where people were sitting. Behind me, was a small garden full of beautiful flowers. Again I didn’t bother whether people were starting at me, but most of them were enjoying themselves with all the cute cartoons which walked around the park that they didn’t notice I was there. I felt relief as no one was staring at me. I lie for only few minutes as the bench was quite cold so I was afraid my back would give me trouble.

When I got up, Ai Na took me round the place to see some of the nice and cute cartoons’ houses. We gave mum the chance to rest as her legs was giving her trouble. It was time to visit Mickey’s House. All of us in a group queued up to go in, there were other visitors too, but they were on another lane. We saw all the things that Mickey wear, use etc. there were even a small theater where Mickey made his appearance in the cartoons screens. They were all in black and white. There were many others things that I have never seen or know Mickey use before. Then, we entered a room and there was Mickey! It was indeed nice to see him. All of us took photos with him, but as an individual group. I was really happy that I have few photos with him. It will be a good remembrance for me.

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A very beautiful parade

As it was already lunch time, all of us went to a fast food restaurant (like Mac Donald). There were a lot of people that we had difficulty in finding a table for ourselves. At last we found a long table. The Korean group didn’t join us, they sat separately. Mr. Sasaki, Ai Na and few of them went to buy food for us all. We enjoyed the food very much and also the companies.

There was a parade outside the fast food restaurant that afternoon. After our lunch, we all queue up in rolls to watch the parade. We were advice by the people who in charge to go to the other side as the front roll was for the disabled. It was a hot afternoon that day and the parade only start after 2.30pm. We had to wait for more than half an hour before it starts. There were many old people on wheelchairs too. Everyone, young and old had to make their seat on both the sides of road.

Just before it starts, few dances came out dancing on the road. Later the parade passed us one by one on a beautifully decorated big car. All the animated Disney animals and cartoons came out. I took many photos of them as they were all dressed so beautifully. The music was very loud. They were dance and waving to all of us. The parade took about half and hour before it ended. It was really a dream came true

After finished, we all went for a walk round the park. There were lots of things to see and all the things eg: cartoons/toy house etc, which were really beautiful. For some older people who cannot walk for a long distance, they provide wheelchairs for thems itting in front and watching them.


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So trilling!

We continue our rounds and saw a ride that we could sit and that was “Pirate of the Caribbean”. There were lots of people queuing up for the ride. Since we have our disabled passes, the lady in change took us in to one corner. Inside the place was quite dark and water in the middle, but there were railings all sides.

We got into a boat and it took us round and we could see the olden days pirates’ which was made of creative down moving around. It was very dark and I was frightened at one part when the boat suddenly went down (like the waterfall). I screamed, but Ai Na hold me as she sat beside me. It was quite trilled at that moment, but later it was calmed again. I saw many pirates fighting and also many in prison and lots more. It was a nice experience.

After coming out, we checked out others interesting places whether we could go in, we nearly went into another place, but the guy in change saw our disabled pass he discouraged us from going in as it may be to dangerous to us disabled. We could not understand a single word they were telling us, so Ai Na had to explain to us.

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Easy access to the restroom

As we pass the park, we saw a garden full of beautiful flowers. We took a slow walk as we look around the place and saw many souvenir shops. We didn’t go in, as we have not enough time as there were still many things to see.

At that time, I needed to ease myself so we went to find a disabled rest room. Wow! When I went into the rest room, I was so amazed to see how big it was. It was all equip with railing and bars. At one corner, there was a resting place (like a bed) for us to lie down. It was so big, clean and easy to move around. I have never seen such a beautifully design disabled toilet before.

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Such a big and beautiful place

When we went in, I feel as if I was in a dreamland! The whole place was so big and beautiful as I have never seen before. There were a lot of people everywhere most of them were Japanese. I saw a group of disabled friends too. I believe they were local people who went out for their Sunday outing.

There was photo session with Winnie the Pooh at one side and another was with Goopy. Wow! There were a lot of people queuing up taking photo with Winnie the Pooh, while only a few with Goopy. I never like Goopy, but since there were only a few people we were wheeled to take photo with him. I was looking forward for a photo with Winnie the Pooh as it was so cute, but sadly I didn’t have a chance. Later, when we went in, Ai Na told me I could take a photo with her as I had a disabled pass.


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Disneyland here we come!

Day 5 - A fun day at Disneyland

Since it was Sunday and the whole day was free for all of us, Mr. Sasaki took us to Disneyland! It was a place I have been dreaming to go and it really came true. We had to wear thicker jacket that day as we would be out the whole day as the air was much cooler.

After breakfast at the café, all of us got ready and waited for the bus. Mr. Hee went along with us that day together with a group of school boys as our helpers. The journey to Disneyland took about 1 hour. When we reach there I saw there were a lot of people queuing up to buy tickets to go in. We joined in to buy ours as well. All disabled have a special pass to go in. The passes were if there was long queue for some games that we wanted play or go in, we could get in without waiting for the long queue.

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A great experience

What a tiring day I had, but it was fun though? It was a real experience facing with a large crowd during my speech. I was proud of myself that I could speak so well without feeling nerves or frighten.

Farewell dinner

Before we depart for the evening (the group) took us for a farewell dinner at Tokyo Dome Hotel. It was very near our YMCA Hotel, but the bus driver lost his way and drove us round and round. The journey back our hotel already took more than one hour, what more the driver lost the way? I was very tired while I was in the bus that I fell asleep. I near didn’t want to follow them to dinner. The bus stopped at the hotel and drop off few disabled and helpers as they were too tired to join us. I nearly went down with them but something stopped me.

Thank God I joined them because when I saw the 5 Star Hotel I was so amazed. It was so beautiful with fountain behind a glass and the hotel was very big. We were all taken the dinner table with many dim lights. It would be romantic for couples who have their dinner there.

Ms. Eiko and Mr. Hee joined us that night. They sat with us at our table but they were not interested in making conversation with me. When I asked them certain things, they will answer. They didn’t bother to ask me any questions. Did they think I was mentally disabled? They were only interesting in talking to mum. Mum told them the stories about us (Julie and I). They served seafood. Despite of my allergy, I couldn’t resist having some of food as it looks so delicious. After dinner since I felt too bored I went over Non’s table and talked to them.

Non and I have some sort of a brother and sister bound during that whole week. I really like him as he is so cute and smart. Whenever I was not around he will kept asking for me. When I think of him now, I really miss him.

After dinner and saying farewell to everyone that night we took more than 5mins walk back to our hotel. It drizzled when the time we walked back, but luckily few of them had one or two umbrellas

Party on!!!

We had a group photo and there were many camera men taking photos at every corner. I felt so funny with so many people in front of us taking video and photos. As if we were like famous people and for once I felt really good.

It was good that the seminar lasted only half a day instead of the whole day. All of us adjourned to the cafeteria where we had a tea party. You could never imagine how the noise was at the cafeteria that evening? The crowd was much bigger than lunch time. Everyone was talking, laughing, shouting and having fun. All of them were having such wonderful time together. When I saw them, I wish the party doesn’t have to end.

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No butterfly in the stomach

Luckily when I came into the hall it was just in time for my presentation. Ai Na gave a short presentation before she introduced me to everyone. I gave a very nice and short speech together with Ms. Eiko, my translator. Thank God at that moment, I didn’t have butterfly in my stomach or else I would be having difficulty in speaking. I spoke very slow and as Ms. Eiko needed to translate English to Japanese. I did not look up at the audience, if I did, I would be more nervous and I don’t think I could even speak. So what I did was concentrated on my paper.

I shared with them my feeling, desire and dream of having a motorized wheelchair. My dream came true because of them. I could move around very easier in the Complex where I’m working. I was very grateful to all of them. And they would repair more motorized wheelchair for my other disabled friends who need wheelchair like mine. My speech lasted about 10mins. I was so relief and happy that I spoke very well and everyone understood how I felt.

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What a great and interesting experience

The seminal started around 1pm and Ms. Tasaki was the Master of Ceremony of that afternoon. She began with few speeches later presentation of few wheelchairs to the other countries. After the presentation, there was a video clips’ of the boys who went to Thailand and few other poor countries to repair wheelchairs and donated to other countries as well. The boys shared about their experience in the poorer countries. They showed more activities in Thailand and how the boys learnt some of language and dances too. It was touching to see their interview as many of them cried when talk about their experience but sadly I don’t understand what they were saying.

After the video chips, there was a short break, so they took me for a rest as my back was killing me. Do you know they put me to rest? Since they couldn’t find me a place, they put onto a long table to stretch my body. It was like an operating table. A kind Japanese lady stayed with me. I rested only about 10mins. Each country presented a short speech about how they feel about the wheelchair they received. I didn’t get to watch the presentation, as out for a rest.

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My prince charming

Kurosaka, my handsome prince came to our table, I gave him a gift together with Keino’s gift as he couldn’t attend the seminar. I try talking to Kurosaka but English was a barrier between us, very few Japanese could speak English. What we did was smile to each other. I felt quite sad that we couldn't make any conversation.

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A very big technical high school

It took us more than an hour before reaching Ohmori Technical High School. When we arrived there, I was so amazed to see such a big school. All the students and friends from Prudential Insurants Company came to help us. We were taken for lunch at their cafeteria. There were a lot of people queuing for food. Wow! You cannot imagine the noisy at that moment. I was so absorbed watching all the people that I hardly ate my lunch. But mum kept pushing me to eat, if not I still be watching the people who came in.

After one hour in the cafeteria, I went to the rest room before adjourning to the seminar hall. I was so glad the whole morning I didn’t think of my speech or have butterfly in my stomach, only that I was slightly nervous when I entered the hall and saw so many people started coming into the hall and few video cameras. I met many people there including my charming guy. I was so happy upon seeing him. Later few of the Japanese friends showed me the newspaper, I surprised to see myself appeared in it together with the boys at Tochigi High School.

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An important day

Day 4 – 4th Oct 03 – Seminar Day at Ohmori Technical High School

It was D-day for the seminar. That morning when we arrived for breakfast at the café, Ai Na introduced me to a few people, who will be helping me during the seminar. One of them was Mr. Hee, a mid 20's guy from Sabah who is studying there, Ms. Eiko, my translator from Prudential Insurants Company and another camera lady who were from the same Company too. We got to know each other briefly during breakfast, but I didn’t talk to them that much.

The Korean group, who didn’t follow us earlier that few days, went to some other places. But on the seminar day,all of them gathered together with us at the lobby and waited for the bus to pick us up to the seminar. I tried to converse with the Korean group, but all of couldn't speak English at all.

The bus arrived around 10am. It was really difficult for all of us on the wheelchair to get into the bus because it was very high and the steps were very steep. The Korean managed to carry their disabled friends, but when it came to me, it was slightly hard but luckily Mr. Hee was with us, so he carried me.

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Butterfly calling

Back at YMCA Hotel

We reached at the hotel before 8pm and we had the whole evening to ourselves as there were no more activities that night. We went to our room and rest for a while before I asked mum to push me downstairs as there was an Internet access at the lobby where everyone can check their email for free. Since I have nothing much to do that evening I checked my email.

Suddenly I heard a voice calling me, in the beginning I didn’t care because when I turned around I saw no one. But the voice called me again, I realized then it was Mr. Sasaki standing on first floor. He invited me to join them at the café (they had a meeting earlier about the coming seminar), so I follow him up and saw the some other people that I didn’t recognize. Mr. Sasaki asked mum to join us so mum came down. Little did mum knew that few other friends were there too. Mr. Sasaki was kind enough to lend us his mobile phone to call home. We talked to dad and Julie for a while and were glad everything was alright at home.

After our phone call, we went back to our room. Later that night Ai Na came to our room and give me some briefing on the seminar for the next day. I was to give a speech during the seminar and when she (Ai Na) told me that there were about 200 people attending. Suddenly I got butterfly in my stomach! She even told I have a lady translator and few helpers to help me.

Anyhow, I didn’t want to think too much for that night as I was very tired. What I did was to pray for courage to speak well for the next day. Even before mum switched off the lights, I was already in dreamland!

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Ladies with Kimono suites

There was another back lane connected to the Temple. Mr. Noguchi took us to see the shops there and we bought some of the things. It was dinner time then when Mr. Noguchi and Mr. Nishino took us to a famous restaurant not far from the Temple. The restaurant was upstairs, so they pushed us up by a ramp. There were shops downstairs. It was quite small restaurant, with only a few tables. We were the only guess there and we took 2 tables. That was the first time I saw few waitress dress Kimono. They were very polite when serving us.

It got dark very early in Japan, as sun goes down even before 6pm. It was very nice experience waking along and across the street without any barrier. When we walked across the road, together with other Japanese at the zebra crossing, many cars stopped. It was really beautiful at nights with all the lights and the air was so cold. We went to a nearby shopping mall and catch a taxi back to YMCA Hotel

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Me and thousands of pigeons!

At one side I saw there were many pigeons and some visitors were feeding the birds. Ai Na pushed me to the middle where I could see the pigeons were. With much surprise, some came near me and onto my lap. Wow! Less than seconds all of them (nearly hundred) came attacking me. At that moment, I didn’t know what to do except to screamed, as so many of them were on my whole body and even on the ground.

Later I found out a man was throwing peanuts on my body that was why all the pigeons came. I did nothing but sat there and kept my eyes close and scream. I didn’t even bother whether people were starting at me. The birds left few screeches on my arms. It was really fun but frightening. Luckily my heart didn’t stop, only that my whole body was stiff due to the excitement. What an experience?

Later the man threw some peanuts onto Non and the pigeons came, but he was too frighten so the man stop throwing and the pigeons went away. It was quite fun watching all the pigeons gathered around you, but when they are on our body it felt so irrie.

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Temple of Goddess of Mercy

It was around 4pm then, Mr. Noguchi and Mr. Nishino took us for a tour to the round the town since it was our free time. We went into the Temple of Goddess of Mercy. The road into the Temple was very long and along both sides there were lots of stalls selling all sorts of souvenirs like our “Pasar Malam” here. Mum and I only went to few of stalls before we continue walking. All the things were very expensive so we couldn't buy many things. Non and others went to the other side. The road in to the Temple was too long for us to continue so we stopped at one corner.

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Back to Angkasa train station

After lunch, one of their staff dropped us at the train station. We waited for the last train back to Angkasa. The journey back was much longer than we came. I doff off while we were in the train as I was very tired, but I still knew the train stopped at few station to allowed people to get in and out. It seems like a never ending journey and that we could not reach our destination. But at last we arrived.

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An interesting morning with the boys

Non, his dad and the lady social worker didn’t follow us as Non was taking a short nap so they took take care of him. After our tour round the school and workshop, all of us went back to the room where the boys said goodbye. By then it was lunch time, we ate with the principal and some members of the board.

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The place "Suki" was born....

Later, they (the students together with principal and other members of the board) took me and others round their school and see the place where they repaired my “Suki”. A student offered to wheel me round the school and followed behind were the other students. Wow! I was like a princess and I felt so wonderful being taken round with all my body guards

The morning was so fresh and cold. Since I could not communicate with the boys, I just enjoyed fresh air and a teacher showed me their school. There were many cameramen following us and taking photos.

They brought me and others into their workshop where there were many wheelchairs being repaired and others were ready to be taken to other countries. I even went to the place where my “Suki” being created, repaired and made. I couldn't believe myself until I saw with my own eyes where the place they made my “Suki” The workshop was big. Some ladies (members of the board) followed us too.

Not far from the workshop, there were some boys repairing unsed wheelchair. We watched them for a while before we left. It was really good for these boys to do something useful such as repairing wheelchair rather than doing something bad like eg: criminal, steeling etc.

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With the students at Tochigi High

Before we knew it, the bus arrived to pick us up. It took about half and hour before reaching the school. Upon arriving, we were greeted by the teachers and students, the principal the school board. I was surprised to see my photos together with “Suki” which was taken in my office few years back was hung up in on the board in front of their school. As a custom, all of us had to take out our shoes and wear their slippers before going into the school.

We were all gathered in a room where every where they introduced their students aged 16 to 18 who were in their uniform (black and white). They showed us a video clip of the students repairing wheelchairs in Thailand. The students had been to Thailand for more than 15 times.

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Autumn morning

Day 3 – 3rd Oct 03 – Visit to Tochigi High School

We woke up early that morning as we had to go down for breakfast before we adjourned to visit Tochigi High School. Since it was still early and the bus has not arrived, Mr. Noguchi took us all for a walk to see the nearby houses. There were few shops selling cookies and sweets. We went into one of the shops’ and mum bought few things, so did the Thai ladies. Nearby the shops', there was long, beautiful lake, we took a walk round the lake and saw many fishes swimming. It was really nice taking a morning fresh air and admiring the scenery.

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Back to the hotel

We went back to Koiyasu Hotel and there again mum and I struggle with the toilet was as it was as narrow as YMCA Hotel, the only different angle and position. I believe all the hotels were the same. That night I could not sleep much because the aircorn in our room was not work so we opened the window for the air to get in, yet I couldn't sleep.

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An evening I will never forget

Party at Oben Restaurant

Few ladies were waiting for us outside the restaurant and when we arrived. I release something very unique about the Japanese people was that they very were punctual in attending every occasion eg: diners, parties, meeting etc, even the arrival of taxis, trains and buses. How nice it would be if we Malaysian could follow Japanese ways? I had a very pleasant feeling to see so many people welcome us and I special happy to see my friend Keino (he was the guy who came to repair my Suki during his honeymoon in Penang 2 years back).

The handsome guy which I met twice that day also attend the dinner. At last I remembered his name after seeing the third time. Kurosaka was his name! There were 2 tables, one for us together with all the guys. They were all the ex-students of Tochigi High School who repaired my “Suki”. On another table were the teachers’, headmasters, principal etc.

We had buffet that night. It was really nice as I got the chance to sit beside Keino and Kurosaka and many other guys. I was very touched when I knew that Keino took the time out to see me and have dinner with us despite his busy schedule of moving his apartment. In spite of our language barrier, I enjoyed my time with them. I tried my best to talk and understand them with the help from Ai Na. There was a lot of food being served that night but I ate very little, but mum was enjoying it. I was surprised to see the beer was served in a huge, fat glass. I never seen it before as I thought it would be in smaller glasses as ours. Before our dinner ends, we toasted for good friendship.

There were many speeches being made by the principal, head of the Tochigi High School and other members. Since there were many people, they presented us (Non and I) with many gift and we exchanged back with them. It was really an enjoyable and memorable party I ever went. I didn’t want to forget that night and I hope it will stay in my mind for sometime. And of course I met my handsome, tall and charming guy – Kurosaka!

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A night Koiyasu Hotel

The hotel we stayed in was called Koiyasu Hotel. We had to go by the back door as there was a ramp and easier for us into the hotel. At that time it was already evening and everyone was tired. In less than 2 hours, we had to adjourn to a dinner party at Oben Restaurant. Two Taxis came to fetch us, before I knew it we had arrive at the Restaurant.

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A big department

Two taxis came to fetch us to City Council of Social Welfare. We arrived there less then 10mins. I was amazed that it was such a big building and inside was many departments. We straight went into the meeting room, there again I met my handsome, young guy. I was so happy to see him there. He and his friend (who picked us up at the train station) joined us for the meeting. I don’t understand what the discussion was all in Japanese. Ai Na didn't translate much to me as she was concentrating on the meeting. At that time, I felt quite sleepy and didn't know they was talking about.

After the meeting, the people took us for a tour round the place and I was really amazed to see it was such a big department with many rooms eg: a big physiotherapy room with many facilities, a day care room for the children, office departments and many other rooms. The whole place was equip with big disabled toilets, railing all over the place.

There was a small van which was renovated for wheelchairs to get in just by pushing them into the van. But only one wheelchair could get into the van. Since our hotel was very near to the City Council, the people at the Council drove Non and I back, only that we had to wait for our turn as the van could only load on wheelchair.

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Beautiful handwork

After lunch, they took us together with the Thai group to their craftwork room where few of the teachers’ and students taught us some craftwork. It was really interesting and fun to learn their work. It took us nearly 2 hours before finishing it. There was a young, handsome Japanese reporter asking me few questions’ about my motorized wheelchair and other things. I tired to answer his questions as best as I could, but felt my answer wasn't accurate.

As we finished our craftwork, I did not realize that we could bring home the work that we had done until later that day when they passed our work to us.

It was time to say goodbye to everyone, as we had to adjourn to another place. But before we left, I went to the rest room. I was surprised to see their disabled toilet was so big and clean with railings by the side. Though all the children in the school could walk, yet they built such a toilet. I was really amazed with it. I had a very pleasant time with all the students as they made us so homely.

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Lunch with our mentally disabled friends

A big bus was waiting to take us to a school for the mentally disabled friends and the pretty lady followed us. It was especially hard for me to get into the bus as it was high and narrow. 2 to 3 people had to carry me. The journey to the school took more than 15mins, we had to go through a paddy field before reaching the school.

It was lunchtime, when we reach their school and we were invited for lunch with the children. Before entering, each of us (except me and Non) had to take off our shoes as it was the custom in the school. But the nicest thing was, there was slippers’ place ready for all of us. it was not for us but everyone who come to their school

All the children were already waiting for us, as we were slightly late. The young lady who followed us turned out to be one of the teacher’s in their school. When we arrived, the principal, teachers and other staff greeted us. We were separated with the Thai group we went into a classroom to have lunch with the children. One of the teachers’ introduced us to the children when we enter the classroom. I was quite surprised to see all of them (about 12 of children aged between 16 to 18) behave themselves very well. All of us sat in a circle with desk and chairs. It was really nice being with them. I notice that they were very discipline as after lunch, they washed and clean up themselves.

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Warm welcome

We took an hours train before reaching Tochigi city. It was my first time sitting in a modern express train. It was very disabled friendly as when we reached there a guard was waiting for us with a white plank and when the train arrived he pushed us in without lifting us up. The plank was level with the train. You see, it was so easy! The train traveled very smoothly, but it stopped about 5 to 6 stations to let people get in and out. While in the train, we passed paddy fields, houses etc. Every 10 to 15mins, we stopped at different station.

At last when we arrived at Tochigi train station and we were greeted by 2 young men and a young lady. At the very first glance was on the tall, handsome guy. I immediate knew him so I smiled and greeted him, but since I didn’t know the other 2 persons. What I did was smile and bow to them (This tall guy came out to Penang last year together with Mr. Sasaki’s group to donate one motorized wheelchair and repair our wheelchairs which was not working well).

At that moment, I couldn't remember his name as I only saw him once last year. I was very happy to see him again that morning as he took the time off to welcome us to Tochigi. Another guy who was with him never came to Penang before, so it was the first time I met him. Together with them was a young, pretty, pleasant and smiling lady. All of them introduced themselves but there I couldn’t remember their names as it was too noisy at the station.

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A unique experience

Day 2 -2nd Oct 03 – YMCA Hotel Going To Tochigi City

I had a goodnight sleep as I was very tired. This day would be anther exciting day as we were going to another city called Tochigi and spent a night. Since mum and I did not hear clearly that we were only spending a night there, we packed more clothes. After breakfast that morning, we got ready as we were to catch a train to Tochigi city. From YMCA hotel, we took 2 taxis to the Angkasa train station. It was around the city.

When we arrived at the Angkasa train station, there was a shopping complex beside it. There were many Japanese people around the place and before going up to the station, there were 2 escalator at the both sides of a big staircase. I thought to myself, “how do we (Non and I on the wheelchair) go up” and before I knew it, there were 2 Japanese guards’ in their uniform got a steel plank ready to bring us up the escalator. They stop the escalator and pushed me up a steel plank.

When the escalator started moving, one of the guard’s was holding my wheelchair from behind and another in front of me. It was my very first experience going up the escalator in such a unique way. I have never imagined it would be so safe. When we arrived at the top of the stairs, Ai Na showed me (beside the escalator) there was a button to call for the guard. This is a very good and interesting idea that Malaysia should lay down this law.

We did not know that we had to travel from one place to another so mum brought 2 heavy bags and it was the heaviest of all. The rest of them only carried one bag pack, but we had two. Can you imagine how embracing we were to let others carry our heavy bags?

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An evening with the students

At 5.30pm, we had an Orientation at our hotel. I had only a short time to rest and Mum didn’t even had any rest, she took a bath before we adjourned to the second floor to meet. Since we were the last to enter to room, I was shock to see the conference room was full of people. I didn’t expect that there would be so many people attending the meeting together with the Korean and Thai group and our group from Malaysia.

There were students and many important people gathered round a big table. After we arrived, few Japanese men introduced each one of us to everyone and share with us the programmers for the whole week. Ai Na translated to us so that we don’t miss out on anything. The meeting lasted only about 15mins then we adjourned to dinner. It was so fun at the dinner room as there were many people gathered together. The Koreans had separated to 2 groups. There were had 9 people altogether, 3 disabled friends on the wheelchairs and their helpers and translators.

We had buffet that evening, a lot of food and drinks were served to us. There was beer (drinks) too. It was funny when I took 1 glass, Ai Na was so surprised to know I drink. I felt quite bored that evening because I don’t know all the people there and I couldn't converse with anyone of them. I was asked to sit with the students but none of them speak English so I went back to my table where our Thai friends were sitting. At least I felt comfortable when I was with them as they knew some English and we could converse. After dinner, we were introduced to some volunteers who are helping us during the seminar day. They were very kind and polite as they kept on bowing to us and we bowed back at them.

After dinner all of us went back to our rooms. I was disappointed to see the toilet as it was so narrow that even my small wheelchair couldn't enter the toilet door. There was also steep step before getting into the toilet. Anyhow, mum and I struggled our way thru it and we pray for God’s help with my toileting and washing up. I have never seen such a narrow toilet before.

After washing up, I dropped dead on the bed as my whole body was killing me at due to sitting to the whole day. I had an interesting first day touring the town and seeing different people, culture and languages.

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A lovely amusement park

After lunch, we continue our walk around the town and very near the café where we had lunch was Tokyo Dome (a recreation park for children). The park wasn't a big, but there were quite a number of people there, mostly young people and children. I didn't go in except I watched it from out side.

At that time, my body was already “calling for help”, Ai Na, mum and I went across an indoor Centre (which was quite big) where there were many adults resting. At one corner I saw there were 2 connecting chairs and took the oppotunitely to lie down. I didn't bother if people were looking or staring at me.

To me surprised, none of them did. After helping me to lie down, Ai Na went for a walk round and made few phone calls. There were benches not far me, some Japanese men and women were resting and smoking cigarettes. I rested about 10 to 15 mins before getting up. Since we could not find Ai Na, mum helped me up alone from the chair. A kind Japanese lady who was sitting not far me (smoking her cigarette) came and gives a helping hand to get me up unto my wheelchair.

Later we went back to Tokyo Dome to find the others’ and saw they brought Non down from some steps. They went to see some things which I don’t really don't know what it was.

Tokyo Dome was just like our Theme Park in Sunway Loogoon in Kuala Lumpur, only that it was a smaller park. While walking back, we saw a big rollercoaster and we could hear young people screaming from the top while the rollercoaster was coming down very fast. We continue our walk back to YMCA, though it was afternoon and the sun was shinning it was not hot at all, in fact it was really breeze and cooling. I had never felt such nice weather before in my entire.

Since it's not 3pm yet and our hotel rooms wasn't ready for us, we stopped at Starbuck Coffee House for a drink. Even the week programmers haven’t started I already have such a good time. We chatted all the time while waiting for our drinks to arrive. After our short drink, we walked back to YMCA Hotel. At that time, it was nearly 5pm already and I couldn't wait to jump into the hotel bed as my back was killing me.

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Sight-seeing at the nearby town

When we arrived we were introduced to Mr. Noguchi (one of Mr. Sasaki’s members), he was our tour guide for that next 2 days. He was in his late 40’s, a kind and friendly man. At that time, I realized that the Thai group consisted of 4 persons – an 8 year old disabled boy on a wheelchair. He was a very cute boy. Together with him was his dad, a lady social worker and another lady translator. Mr. Noguchi helped us to check into the rooms but to my surprise we could not check in until 3pm!

At that time it was around 11.30am, I could not believe we had to wait for another 4 hours before checking into our rooms. “I have plan when we arrived at YMCA Hotel I could straight check into our room and jumped in bed as that morning I was very tired and sleepy”. But everything changes. Since we could not check into rooms Mr. Noguchi took us for a tour around the nearby town. Even though, it was small town, the place was big. At first, I didn’t know where we were heading as we kept walking and walking until later I knew they were taking us to see the town.

There were many houses along the town, but not many people though. We saw few people walking on the road. I admired the road because it was very clean and it was level with no bumps anywhere. It was so cooling and breeze that morning. The air was really fresh. After a distant, we saw a public phone booth. Mum made a call home but could not get through so we had to try again later. We walked to the town and there I saw a lot Japanese men and women all wearing working suits walking to work. There were not many cars, but many people walking on the roads and cycling along the side path.

As it was already lunch time, we search for an eating place and found a fast food restaurant. I didn’t know how to eat their Japanese food, but luckily there were western food too. I didn’t want to spoil my appetite, so I choose western food but mum went for the Japanese dish instead as she wanted to try their food. After tasting it, she didn’t like it at all as there was some smell in it. Luckily I didn’t choose Japanese food, or else it would spoil my appetite. I had to pass half of my food to mum as I could not finish. Everyone was enjoying their lunch and chit-chatting away. I tried to make friend with the disabled boy –Non (it was short form for his full name). All Thai people have long names. I talked to him, so were others’. He could talk, but very slow as he is a Cerebral Palsy.

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A never ending journey

The Thai group arrived a day earlier before us and spent a night at the motel, so when we arrived that morning we had to wait for them to get themselves ready. As we waited for them (Thai group) we went into Ms. Tasaki room (as she spent a night with them there). Since she hasn’t checked that morning, we went to her room and I rested for a while before I had to get ready and meet the Thai group.

When we reached downstairs the van had arrived and the Thai group was already in the van. I sat in front and mum was at the back of me. Mr. Sasaki told us we had to make a 2 hours trip before reaching YMCA Hotel (another city). We started our journey around 9am.

I knew there was a disabled person in the Thai group, but I didn’t know whether it was a boy or girl as they sat at the back of the van. While we were on the road, I saw many tall buildings and other things. I felt so tired that morning as I didn’t slept much in the plane, so I doffed off for a short while, but I could hear them chatting away. I felt as if it was like a long journey as we could not arrive to our destination, but at last we reached YMCA Hotel.

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What a happy moment

1st Day - At Narita Airport - Japan

It took us 7 hours before reaching Tokyo (Narita Airport) and landed on the ground at 7am. I thank God we had a safely landing. Again I was the last to leave the plane. A Japanese young man came to assist us and wheeled me from the plane to the immigration counter. It was a long walk to the counter, since it was earlier in the morning there were very few people at the airport. When arrived at the counter we waited nearly 20mins as they checked our passports. Disabled people had a special counter at the immigration waiting place. There were only 3 of us that morning. After checking all our necessary documents, we were taken to the waiting hall.

At that time, my diaper was already wet I had to find a rest room. The rest room in the airport was very big and clean and we had lots of space to move around. It took me a while to change everything. When we came out, I saw Mr. Sasaki, he wore a formal dress and coat that morning. Together with him was Ms. Tasaki (a pretty young lady). (The last time Mr. Sasaki came to Penang with his group he was looked very simple and he the camera man at that time.) I nearly couldn't recognize him that morning but was very happy upon seeing him.

When we came out from the Airport as walked towards the Taxi stand, the morning air of early Autumn was so breeze and cool. I have never felt the air like that before as it was so refreshing. 2 taxis came to fetched us, I was surprised to find that the taxi was much bigger than our usual car. When we reached the motel I was shocked when the taxi door suddenly opened by itself. At that time I didn’t realize that the taxi man pressed a button on the drives side and the door open itself. It was a short distant to reach the motel (about 10mins drive)

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Japan here I come!

At Changi Airport - Singapore

We arrived at Changi Airport (Singapore) around 7.15pm. I was the last person to get down together with mum and Ai Na as they needed to bring me with their small wheelchair. It was uncomfortable sitting on it as it was too small for me, but luckily it was only a short period of time before I transfered back to my own wheelchair.

After getting out from the plane we had a long walk and that was when I was so amazed to see such a big and huge airport. The airport assistant helped by pushing me until a waiting place and left us there. He asked us to wait at the same place for another assistant to assist us to the plane later that evening. There was very big shopping complex inside the airport where they sell practice everything. It was like shopping mall cum rest place for all the foreigners while waiting to board their plane. We walked a distant before we searched for a café where we could rest and have our dinner.

The airport had 4 levels highs, we went to the 2nd floor as we saw a on the board. Just after coming out from the lift, we saw drinking water for the public. It was great that they design one for able body and beside it for the disabled. Then we found the café where there were not many people, only some locals and tourists. We got ourselves a table and had our dinner. All the food there was very expensive. Though, we had 4 hours at the airport before embarking the plane to Japan. 4 hours seems to be quite long, but when we were there the period of time went very fast.

After dinner we went for a walk round to see the shopping mall. We only went for a short distant when mum made 2 phone calls to my cousin and another aunt of mine. After her calls, I needed to do my toileting. When I see the disabled rest room was so big, and clean, I felt so happy and relief. I had the chance to rest on the floor for about 10mins as mum brought a mat for me. This is my 1st experience resting in a rest room floor. We could never find any big and clean toilet like that in Penang.

Our plane to Narita, Tokyo was at 11pm and we embarked on it about 10.40pm as I was the 1st person to get into the plane together with Mum and Ai Na. There were many foreigners together with many other Japanese people too boarding the place that evening. The stewards and stewardess was serving everyone food and drinks when we on the plane. One Indian steward was very caring towards me as he kept asking whether I was alright and if I needed anything I can call for their help.

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A dream became a reality

Two years ago, on this day 30th September 2003, my dream become a reality when I stepped into the heart of Tokyo, Japan. I couldn't believe until it came true. Follow my story and you see and know how much I enjoyed my time there.

30th September to 6th October 2003

At The Penang Airport In The Evening

It was really a wonderful dream when I got the chance to enter Japan for the first time together with my mum (as my helper) and another friend, Ai Na (who was our interpreter). With God grace, I was there for one week attending the “Flying Wheelchair Seminar”. Without “Suki” (my motorized wheelchair) I won’t be enjoying my time in Tokyo. I was told that the whole week schedules will be very tied.

A month before we depart, I had all sort of mix feeling. I could never imagine how wonderful God was to give me this precious opportunity to visit this beautiful country that my disabled friends had told me when they were to Osaka last year for a seminar. I never thought I would go to the extent as to go Japan as I knew my body could not stand the journey, but to God nothing is impossible. So He really made my beautiful dream came true and I don’t think I can ever forget this trip.

The real day had arrived, I was really excited but I did not show out. Janice and her 2 daughters together with my aunt Ai Chin dropped us at the airport about 4.40pm. Our friend, Ai Na arrived there a while before us. We checked in our luggage. There was still time as our plane SQ195 to Singapore was to board at 5.55pm
so we went around to see the shops.

This was the 1st time after many years I went into the airport and so many things had changed. I bought few postcards from a souveniour shop. Next to it were other shops selling many other things too. I saw many tourists hanged out at the Coffee Been. I was quite surprised that they open a branch at the airport.

About 5.30pm we said goodbye to everyone as we needed to go into the departure hall. A Malay lady and another young Chinese man came to assist me in transferring to another smaller wheelchair which can take me into the plane as I had to be the first to get in before all other passengers board the plane. I saw there were mostly business men boarding the plane that evening. Our plane took off about 6.15pm and inside there were stewards served everyone light dinner – cold sandwich and some drinks which I wasn't use to eating cold food so when I took a bit of the sandwich, I felt like throwing out.

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Desire in life

Do you know why I created this blog? It's for me to express all my feeling which I have kept in my heart for such a long time. I have a very difficult time expressing my feeling throught words, that's why I need to put it into writing so that all of you can understand how I feel. I have so many things I wanted to share in words, but no one seem to understand what my heart desire. Please continue follow my stories and you will see and understand what I wish, hope and desire in life.

When I started creating my site, I sent out to all my relatives and friends. A few of them reply me that I did a great job I did with this site. They read, but non of them were on my side in supporting me, except for only one person who follow my stories closely and she is my Aunt Ai Chin. Many times, i wanted to ask her opnion about my stories but I dare not as affaid she will tell my parents what I wrote in my site. so I didn't ask neither did she say anything.

One day, when she came to my house and was in my room, she told me I wrote from my heart and I didn't catch her until later I knew what she meant. To my surprised, she read my stories. I was really happy and touched when she fully support me in what I'm doing and will explain to my parents in time to come. I never knew anyone would be on my side supporing me. That is what I needed most - to have someone on my side.

Jane, a young pretty girl

I met an 18 year old pretty disabled Indian girl together with her lovely Mum at Mac.Donald in Gurney Plaza last Sunday. Jenani is her name, but she prefered to be called Jane. Her Mum, Patricia brought her to meet me as she wants Jane to mix with more friends and also come out to the outside world.

It was my first time meeting both Patricia and Jane. I didn't know who to expect when I waited at Mac.Donald until they arrived, then I found out they were friendly and pleasant family, especially Patricia. Jane's dad was very quiet sitting at the back, but he left us after a while to meet his son.

I talk to Patricia and Jane for nearly an hour before my other friends joined me. Jane was a soft spoken girl who seldom mix with the outside world. When I see her and talked to her, I recalled my young day when I was as shy as Jane. I continue asking Jane things but she didn't talk, so I talk to Patricia as she keen to let her daughter come out mix with friends. For myself, I don't have many friends, so I couldn't introduce Jane to any clubs or groups.

I asked Jane one thing, do you like to work and she nodded, Patricia didn't discouraged her instead she was very encouraging. I introduced her to Eden Handicap Service Centre, the place where I work. I told them I need to arranged with my boss the time date and for them to meet.

On Wednesday, Patricia and Jane came for the interview. Within an hour my boss (Bertie) gave Jane a job as a clerk in the Recycle Unit. The same evening, Jane sms me saying that she was happy that she got a job. I was really happy that I had helped someone in time when they were desparate for help.

Changes and Choices

Changes and choices. That is what I wish to have, but I can never have the chance to earn it. To others, it's so simple, but never to me. If I'm still at my parent's roof, I will never will get the chages and choices in my life.

Sometimes, when going shopping with my family is a pain the neck. Why? Because the things I want to buy is not my choice. Most of the time it must suit their taste and not mine. Once a while, I got the chance to pick the choice of mine. Do you think that is fair to me? It is the same the when our family goes out for lunch or dinner. I seldom get the chance to choose the choice of the food I like. It's always my family ordering the food. Sometimes, when I order some food, it would turned out to be other things. Can you imagine that?

Most of the time, they will decide things for me, so how can I make my own desicion when they keep deciding most of things for me. That is why I seldom like to go out with my family, unless there is some special occasion. I would prefer going out with my friends and that is when I can get chance buy any anything I like.

I know my family love me very much, but it's time for me to make my own decision. I believe I have the right for that as I'm old enough.

Mum' s day

Yesterday Mum's turns 69 and we had a simple celebration for her. Julie (my youngest sis) and I brought her a bottle of perfume as a gift. It is always during birthdays' among our family member's when mum would cook for us delicious western food. Everyone in the family always enjoys Mum's western food especially the "baked crumbs chicken". It's not easy to cook, so we only get to eat it on special occassions.

Janice (my eldest sis) brought Mum a birthday cake full of fruits and with lots of hearts around it. We were supposed to cut it in the afternoon, but Janice's an her kids' were all so busy that they had to rush home. So, we waited till at night after dinner.

Mum gave us a treat for dinner at Kham Kee Restaurant where we had steam-boat. The restaurant is just 5mins walk as it's outside our house. We took an evening walk, while Janice and family together with her mother and her sister in-law, Gloria joined us. There were 11 of us and all of us enjoy the food untill everyone was full.

After we came back, Mum cut her birthday cake as the kids' couldn't wait to have their share of the piece of cake. I really believe Mum had a happy day as she feel cared and loved.

Suffering people come for exercises

Physiotheraphy Department at Penang General Hospital is always full with patients. Every Thursday morning I would go there for my exercises. I see lots of people with all type of cases like accidents cases, people with strokes and many elderly people (mostly women) suffering from knee trouble. Pratically, everyone who goes for physio department for exersices are suffering in one way or another.

There are 3 to 4 physiotherapies attend to all these patients'. The theraphies would advice the new comers on what to do and later leave them to do the exerices themselves and attend to other patients. As I'm there alone to do my exercises, most lf the people who already knows me as I'm ther for the 1 past year. Most of these people are regular patients' who comes every week with relatives, friends or even their maids. When I needed help, I would call for them especially in getting up and down from the bed. Some of them even concern and curious about me condition and they talk to me.

Just like yesterday, when I had some difficulty in pushing my wheelchair, a lady came to my help. When another lady saw me, she offers her help to put my card in the counter.

I made friend with an old uncle who arein his late 70's. He is staying in Penang Home (an old folk home). He goes for exercise to strengthen his leg as he had a fall not long ago. I haven't seen Uncle Leong these the past 2 to 3 weeks. Few weeks earlier, when I met Uncle Leong outside the physio room, he told me he had skin problem. I believe he went for his check-up. Yesterday, when I was about to go back, I saw the van take Uncle Leong and his friends's home.

This 1 year, I met lots of people in the physio department. I know these people will improve as they come for their regular exercises and do not give even though there's a lot of pain they have to go through. The only thing, they must never give up and continue to preserve.

An afternoon with new friends

It was Saturday afternoon when Kuan Aw asked Yeap and I out. The meeting was at Gurney Plaza, Coffee Bean. The intention of both of us coming out was to meet another 2 new disabled friends who are on wheelchairs too. It was such a small world that the new friend (a young Malay guy) Shahid was Derrick (my colleague's) friend.

Shahid in his 20's seems to be an a very active and out-going guy.. I didn't get to talk much because not far from Coffee Bean, there was a mini concert and it was very noisy. Even though he sat just opposite me, I couldn't hear much of what he said . But he is a nice guy. He is now studying in USM but will be going to England to further his studies. I know he will definitely have a great further ahead.

Another friend was Alfred, he came slightly late. I didn't talk to him at all, but what I know he's working at Intel dealing wth computer. He was a quiet guy or maybe I didn't know him that much yet. Both of them have good life ahead.I really admired people like them.

I had a nice time getting to know them though it was only a short period of time. I hope I would be able to continue keeping in touch with them.

Spiritual Warfare

When the spirit inside you is low, you can feel very down, isn't it? This is the feeling I'm facing this whole week. Everytime when my spirit is down, emotionally also I feel very down. I can feel I'm at a warfare with the evil one. Everytime this happen, I have to call to great GOD for extra help to fight with "bad guy". I hate having this feeling because it can pull me real down and makes me think of all the unpleasent thing.

It's like the spiritual tug of war. The good and bad inside me are fighting. At this time I have to especially call for The Almightly God's to fight with the evil one. It's never easy to get over it, but with lots of prayers I can do it.

Despite this happen, I must never to give up but keep on going. With the GOD's help, I can still carry on.

Easy Access

GURNEY PLAZA is a very suitable and convenient shopping mall for disabled to visit as it has all the disability access. Mostly of the weekend my disabled friends hang-out there as we, wheelchair users can move around the place very easily.

Before entering into the mall, there is a slight slop where my friends and I needed to be wheel up as their hands are not strong enough. After going into the mall we are free to wheel around the whole mall without any difficulty

There are few lifts’ inside the mall which are equip with disabled friendly, as the buttons are low enough for us to press. These lifts’ are only at the ground floor.

The disabled toilets are situated at every floor. Some of the toilets are slightly bigger as they are situated at corner of the mall, but most of them are in the middle, between ladies' and gens' toilets. They are all equips with railings by the side. But the biggest and cleaners toilet I could find is on the 7th floor, where the cinemas’ are situated. There are railing at the side and the wash basin is low for wheelchair uses.

This is why my disabled friends and likes to hang out in this mall. There are no steps or ramps and it’s very easy for wheelchair user to access everywhere in the mall except the ground floor where there all the restaurants. There is one step up into the restaurant but outside they have tables and chairs for anyone who wants to enjoy the fresh air. Most of the time friends and I always sit outside.

All I can say is Gurney Plaza shopping mall is very disabled friendly.

A Nice Meet Up

It was a casual afternoon where my friends and I gathered at Gurney Plaza. But it Kar Wei's "special day" I believe you all know what I mean, right? He need not have to mention as all of us (his close friends) already knew it, so we just had our usually gathering. It was really nice to see and have everyone's company there and it's not always that we have this gathering as individual has their own way to go.

While waiting for YT, Ken and Roger, Kar Wei, Annah Yeap and I had a simple lunch at Mac.Donald, our favourite place. The 4 of us have so much things to catched up with as we have not met for quite sometime. When the rest arrived around 2pm, they joint us and had some light food.

After everyone finish, we adjoured to the shops to check out what the new arrival. First, I went with Annah to Elle's shop but everything is so expensive, so went to Giornado's shop where the rest of my friends' were. They were choosing some clothes as there were on sales and discounts. It didn't interested me, so I went to Body Shop to buy something.

When everyone is done with the shopping, we went for a drink at Ipoh Street Restaurant and chit-chat before dismissed. It was a nice meet up with out you all.

Have a safe trip, Aunty

It was a pleasure to have Aunty Elsie with us for the past a week. Yesterday at 11am, she a bus back to Kuala Lumpur. Aunty has migrated to Sydney, Australia for the past several years ago, but she would come back to Malaysia few years once to visit her family, relatives and friends. Everytime when she come out to Penang, she would surely put up in our house. Even though, she is now 79 years of age and she has gone through a major operation end of last year yet, she has not chance at all since her last visit here in 2002.

Aunty is a very nice lady who is very warm and friendly. She is a very active person and could travel alone without any company even at her age. I have no doubt she is a person who could easily build a friendship with anyone, because she has many friends not only in Sydney, Malaysia few other country too. When I think of her,I always wish to myself, how wonderful to have a grandma like her!

The Difficulty Journey

My name is Anne. I’m suffering from Antasomat Reccessive Inherited CN3 Degenerative Disorder (it means my parents blood doesn’t suit each other). I started having this sickness since I was 2 years old. My physical condition used to be very unstable, but now I’m slightly better. I used to attend the Cerebral Palsy Association of Penang (Spastic) since I was 4 years old for 16 years.

Despite, I’m a severely disabled person, a lot of people think my brain is also disabled. But NO, I can think very well, only that I’m slightly slow in learning certain things. Many people avoided me just because of my disability, but what I wish and hope is to get to know more people and make friends with them.

I’m the second of three daughters in my family. Presently I’m living with my elderly parents. I will be turning 35 end of this year. My whole family are Roman Catholic.

In early 90’s, I used to join the Eden Handicap Service Centre for fellowship every Saturday and some training which were Manderin class Computer class where I learnt my basis Computer knowledge. I even joint the choir group, but I left the Centre when I found myself a job in 1998 with Kemeterian Pembagunan Wanita Pulau Pinang for 6 years, but since 1 year ago I rejoin the Eden Handicap Service Centre as a staff. My job is a receptionis cum clerk.

My hobbies are corresponding, writing stories (on my personal life) net serving, chat with friends, listening to music (love songs/ballad), reading (love story and courageous stories). I have been corresponding with overseas pals since I was a teenage. All my pen-pals come and go out of my life, but I didn’t give up corresponding. At present, I have about 6 to 7 pals from Asia and Europe

I like making friends, hang out with my disabled friends at the shopping mall, I like traveling. I have been to few places in Malaysia eg; Genting Highlands, Kuala Lumpur, Langkawi, Pulau Pangkok, Pedu Lake. In 2003, I got a precious oppotunity to visit Japan for a week to attend a seminar. It was the greatest time I ever had and it will be in my memory for a long time.

My dream is to travel round the world one. I hope my dream will come true.

Love hurts

Falling in love is the most beautiful thing i can imagine off, but it wasn't for me as it is very hard for that someone to love me back. It is one sided love and it's sad when I love the person never return my love. Now, I realise it's never easy to find that someone who can truly love me for who I am, unless that person is sent to me by God. But how would I know he is the right person for me? Only time can tell.

Many times, I have fallen in love with the wrong guy whom I thought he was Mr.Right. Recently, I faced the same problem again. It was during a week when I was in Kuala Lumpur for Boccia tournarment when I met James who is disabled too and suffered from Cerebral Palsy. We were in the Boccia training and tornerment together and with 18 other Cerebral Palsy friends. It was during the training when he approached and talked to me, as being friendly i talked to him.

Only after we went into the hotel for the tournarment, we started getting closer. He and his friend Tony stayed only a few rooms away from mine. As that afternoon, I was feeling bored and lonely, I sms Tony handphone, but his sms return asking my room no. When the phone rang, James was the other side of the line. We talked for nearly half an hour before I hang up.

James was a good player in Boccia and he was a handsome guy. I was attracted to his looks and was admired him. That evening after dinner, to my surprised there was a know on the door. Guess who it was? James wants to come into my room, as a friend I invited him in, with a good intension. He sat and talk to me for a while when Rizuan (his friend) came to call him back. When he was leaving my room, I heard our next door friend saying "Oh you went into the girls room!" It was never dawn to me that guys cannot go into girls room until our next door friend yelled out.

After the tournament i came back, we continue to keep in touch through phone calls and sms. He called me pratically everyday and I sms him too . About 2 weeks later, he asked me if I love him? It was out of a sudden when he asked me that question but at the time I already fell for him? So with thinking much, I accepted him. Between that week, I have thinking what have I done? Accepting a guy whom I knew for less than month, I must be kidding! I didn't think before accepting him. But it was a beautiful when someone love me, calling me "daring" "sayang" and saying "I love you". It really touched my heart. After serious thinking I decided to broke off with him but I knew I did a terrible thing to hurt. A day later, I sms him asking him whether we can continue be friends. He didn't reply me until 3 day later when he called me. I ask him to accept my applogies and we start new again as friends. He agree. Now we are friends again. I don't want to loose him as a friend.

I wish to find a guy who can really love and accept me for who I am. Whom can really accept me and my chair . Who will willing to have a real committement with me. Not only acceping me, but my family too.

I have been praying for this "guy" for years now, but yet I haven't found him.
If he would be the ONE then I will know he is sent to me the by my great God.

Life Goes On

FEAR OF DEATH is everyone’s nightmare. People seldom like to raise this topic, as losing their love ones is a great tragedy. But this is a fact that no one can avoid.

It is especially fearful for the severely disabled because they are mostly dependent on their parents for support, care and help.

Like me, I tend to have this great fear in me of losing my parents one day. As a severely disabled person I need my parents care all the time, though at times I can do certain things myself.

Not me alone, I also think of my future my youngest sister (Julie) as she is disabled too, but she is worst than me. She couldn’t do anything herself, all have to depend on my parents. It’s not the same as for me I can at least do part of the daily things myself and I’m working too. I thank God I can do certain things I do myself instead of depending on my parents completely.

I have share my fears with my mum many times, but her words are always the same TRUST IN GOD, HE WILL TAKE CARE OR YOU. Despite what my mum had said to me, I still fear of my future. Many times I think and plan of going into a Disabled Home, but most of the Homes caters only for physically disabled where they are independent in doing everything themselves.

To your surprise, I even wrote in to couple of Homes asking whether they would take me in. None of them reply back. You must think I’m crazy in doing such thing, asking to get into a Home when you still have your parents to care for you.

Do you know why I’m making such plans? I have the fear that one day I will lose my parents and no one will care for me. Though I have got an eldest sister (Janice) who loves me very much, I don’t think she would be able to care for me as she has a family to care for. So, I don’t think I can depend on her in everything. That is why I’m starting to find a Disabled Home now, but I don’t think this plan can work for the time being as I’m not independent.

I wish and pray that one day the government will build a Home for the severely disabled people. I heard from a friend of mine that there are a group of disabled in Malaysia who are planning for a Home (independent living) for the severely disabled. How far it’s true, I don’t know. If this plan it’s really true, I can be very happy. Now I can just pray and hope that this plan will come to real and the government would implement on this plan.

For now, I don’t want to think that much or else it would drive me crazy. Let God take care of my youngest (Julie) sister and I. We are His precious children, so I shouldn’t be afraid losing my parents one day. I have to put my trust in God in taking care of us.

Whatever happens to our parents, we still have carry on living. We cannot give up just because our parents are gone. We have to move on and lead our life.