GIVING TIME . TOUCHING LIVES
Mendel conducting a tour at the Kidney Discovery Centre for new volunteers
Roslan (left), together
with Taufik, Norhayati and their son
Giving and growing with NKF
Mendel started his volunteering stint with NKF as a student representative in 2018. Then, he led his cohort
of club mates to befriend patients at one of NKF’s dialysis centres on a weekly basis. A natural leader, he
is currently
sitting in the NKF Volunteer Committee as Logistics Manager. Here, he shares his
experience of volunteering with NKF and how he finds it fulfilling and meaningful.
When our
student group first signed up as volunteers, we were introduced to the Kidney Discovery Centre which
highlighted the different stages of kidney failure and how they occur. It was an enriching experience as we
learnt how prevalent kidney failure can be and some of the challenges and restrictions that NKF patients
face. This motivated me to be more involved in NKF’s cause as it aims towards the betterment of these
dialysis patients.
One of the most memorable volunteering experiences is hearing the life
experiences of patients, which often provides us with a different perspective on certain social issues
around us. It is indeed inspiring to see patients’ great fighting spirit and positive outlook towards life
despite their condition. There are also patients who take their own time to help and encourage their fellow
patients.
“The antidote to negativity isn’t positivity, it’s warmth.” This was a quote I came
across some time ago, which resonated deeply with me as it does spotlight the attitude we should have
towards some of the dialysis patients. There are some days where the patients are having a hard time either
at work or home and feeling down. Although some may appreciate words of encouragement or advice, most of
them are just looking out for a listening ear. Therefore, you need not worry about whether you have the best
advice or solution for their problems, as what they need is just your time and patience to listen to
them.
“Volunteering with NKF has not only been an eye-opening experience but also an enriching one. NKF will deepen your understanding of kidney health, which you can then advocate to those around you and thus prevent kidney failure.”
Mr Mendel Seah - NKF volunteer
