A Caregiver's Journey: From Fear to Empowerment

For years, 69-year-old Mdm Chew Oh Shuan lived with a constant sense of anxiety, especially whenever she thought about bringing her son, Eugene, on outings. Born with congenital deformities and intellectual disability, Eugene requires constant support with mobility and day-to-day activities. Due to an incident where Eugene lost his balance and fell, Mdm Chew often worries about his safety and whether she has the physical strength to support him when they go out.  

“Eugene had to undergo multiple surgeries since he was young. He is prone to losing his balance and falling because one leg is longer than the other. Even when I’m holding his hand, there are times when he may still be unstable when walking,” Mdm Chew recalls.  

Discovering Support at TCIL 

Eugene’s life began to change after enrolling as a trainee at TOUCH Centre for Independent Living (TCIL) in 1996, where the Lifeskills Coaches worked closely with his parents, helping him gradually gain independence in performing daily tasks. When Mdm Chew became Eugene’s sole caregiver after her husband’s passing, her curiosity about his activities at the centre grew. She wanted to better understand what her son was learning and experiencing.  

Caption: Mr Goh (far right) with Mdm Chew and Eugene during a leathercrafting learning workshop during TCIL's term break. 

Her journey took a meaningful turn when Mr Goh Kim Yeow, a Lifeskills Coach at TCIL, invited her to a leather-crafting workshop for caregivers in 2022. This opportunity not only helped her understand Eugene better but also opened a door to new possibilities for Mdm Chew.  

Transformed Through Volunteering 

With Mr Goh’s encouragement, Mdm Chew began volunteering at the centre’s weekly leather-crafting sessions, patiently guiding other trainees who struggled at first but grew in skills and confidence with Mdm Chew’s guidance.  

“I’ve felt very happy and fulfilled since I started volunteering. Many people have the misconception that persons with disabilities cannot do anything on their own. During my time volunteering, I’ve discovered that they are more capable than we think. Many of them are able to listen to instructions well, do things on their own, and display admirable traits like determination and perseverance. They can be empowered if they are given the chance,” shares Mdm Chew, who has gained newfound perspective.  

Mdm Chew has formed close bonds with many trainees, who greet her with a warm smile or hug each week. “Some trainees may be quiet, but they can be very sweet too. After a year, I’ve become close to many of them and it’s nice when they express their affection by giving me a hug or smile whenever we meet!” 

Since then, Mdm Chew has not looked back and dedicates at least two days a week to volunteering at the centre.  

Stepping Outside: Gaining Confidence Together 

Caption: Mdm Chew (second from right) with several trainees before they set off for MOW.  

In August 2024, Mr Goh introduced Mdm Chew to Meals-on-Wheels (MOW), where trainees deliver meals to homebound elderly living in Toa Payoh. “I was fascinated by MOW – it's amazing that even with special needs, these trainees never let it stop them from giving back,” says Mdm Chew, who is now confidently leading a small group of trainees on MOW outings every Friday.  

Caption: Eugene helping Mdm Chew with stitching during a leather-crafting workshop.  

Volunteering has also impacted her relationship with Eugene positively. Through leather-crafting, she discovered new sides of her son: “When I’m struggling with a particular stitch, Eugene has always been able to help me out. He can even spot mistakes in my sewing and guide me to fix them!”  

Caption: Mdm Chew and Eugene at TSNG Family Day 2025, where they visited Gardens by the Bay together.  

Having led trainees for MOW, Mdm Chew’s own confidence has grown, and she now feels empowered to bring Eugene out on her own. “I used to be fearful when people stared at him, but now I’m no longer bothered by what they think because I know how capable he is,” shares Mdm Chew, who recently took Eugene on a holiday to Cameron Highlands. 

Caption: Mdm Chew and Eugene during their recent trip to Cameron Highlands.  

Inspiring Growth and Giving Back  

Caption: Eugene guiding a participant during a leather-crafting workshop for members of the public.

Eugene’s success in leather-crafting speaks much of his tenacity. “If Eugene wants to accomplish something, he will see it through till the end. Learning leather-crafting wasn’t easy for him, but he never gave up. Now he’s able to stitch quickly and accurately,” says Mr Goh who taught and watched Eugene grow in confidence.  

Mr Goh adds, “I’m very thankful for Mdm Chew. Her willingness to volunteer and support us always comes from a place of genuine warmth and a heart to serve.” 

Inspiring Growth and Giving Back  

Caption: Mdm Chew (far left) attending an introductory session of JOURNEY RE:MAKE.  

Continuing her journey of learning and giving, Mdm Chew recently started lessons with JOURNEY RE:MAKE, a project where participants learn sewing techniques to produce new and upcycled quality products. Beyond gaining new skills, this initiative also provides participants with the opportunity to earn an income, as the handcrafted items will be made available for sale to the public.  

Empowered for Herself and Her Son 

Mdm Chew’s transformation from an anxious caregiver to a dedicated volunteer has not only deepened her relationship with her son, but also exemplifies the power of support and community. Mdm Chew’s story inspires us to embrace opportunities to grow, give back and help create a caring community where every person is valued and has the chance to shine.  

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TOUCH Centre for Independent Living (TCIL) is a day activity centre which offers competence-based training programmes for adults with mild to moderate intellectual disabilities. It aims to provide them with functional knowledge and skills that will equip them to live independently in the community. This client-focused training programme teaches daily living and pre-employment skills to trainees, and visual arts, sports and recreational activities to improve their quality of life.     

Story published in 2025.