Author: Peh Geok Ling
Many who have known me are aware of my role as a caregiver, supporting my mother on her dementia journey. While many have described me as a “filial” daughter who has sacrificed much for her, my sacrifices pale in comparison to what she has endured for our family.
Growing up, my childhood was shaped by financial constraints, with just enough food on the table for our family of five. My father worked as a taxi driver, while my mother was a homemaker. To this day, I can vividly recall how my father would give my mother a daily allowance of $20 to manage all household expenses, from running the home to funding our education.
As a woman with no formal education or skills, my mother took on various odd jobs to supplement our income. She collected clothes to iron and even worked as an office cleaner well into my adult years. Reflecting on those times, I now understand her frugality—her habit of hoarding and strict limits on spending.
So just when we thought the worst could have, unfortunately, extra-marital affair rob the family that resulted, them to go on separate ways. And since then, single handedly, she raised the three children despite all the odds against her.
I can still remember the struggle she has to go through when she has to face dad on his death bed to sought a closure.
Has this influence me? Yes, no doubt.
In a positive way? Yes, definitely
Any negativity? Yes, as well.
But despite all of these, I am forever proud to be her daughter, and is not replacing her anyone.
