Seated beside her is Mdm. Ruth, her third child, who has walked every step of life’s journey with her. An accident at 12 left Mdm. Ruth visually impaired, but it never dulled her spirit. She pursued her education at the Singapore Association for Visually Handicap for 3 years and got her British accent from watching BBC news. Her hard work and effort led her to a career at British Petroleum (BP) for 27 years as a telephone operator, earning her keep with her intelligence and determination. “I’ve always believed God will look after me,” she says. “There is no need to worry.”  

Despite her resilience, Ruth’s visual impairment presents daily challenges. She can see a figure one meter away but cannot recognise a face, making it difficult to identify people, read fine details, or navigate unfamiliar environments. However, the familiarity of their flat, where they have lived for 55 years, allows her to move around independently. When outside, she relies on Mdm. Teo for guidance, and they always go out together, supporting each other. At home, Mdm. Teo still cooks for her daughter, filling their space with the comforting aroma of home-cooked meals such as chicken soup and fish soup. 

Reading letters poses another challenge. Since Mdm. Teo cannot read English and Ruth struggles with small print, they often turn to the staff at Lions Befrienders for assistance. The staff reads important correspondence aloud, ensuring they stay informed and never miss out on crucial information.