“Volunteering is a fulfilling and meaningful way to spend my retirement years and it keeps me active in my old age.”
– Mr San Thu, 72
NKF volunteer of 9 years
His is a familiar face among staff and patients at NKF Centre and the Tay Choon Hye-NKF Dialysis Centre. On Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, staff and patients are likely to see Uncle San Thu, as he is affectionately known, quietly carrying out various voluntary duties at the office.
On the first Saturday of every month, Uncle San Thu will be at the dialysis centre where he leads an 11-strong volunteer group to befriend and conduct activities for the patients. The group aims to keep the patients mentally active and help them pass their dialysis hours in a more enjoyable manner.
Uncle San Thu joined NKF as a volunteer in 2009. From day one, the 72-year-old retiree has been wholly dedicated to serving the patients. Rain or shine, he would show up at NKF Centre thrice weekly and help with various administrative duties, such as packing magazines for patients to read or event logistic preparation. Whenever NKF holds any events, he will also be there to help in one way or other, be it manning booths, or helping with the goody bags.
He said, “We can all help those in need in many different ways. As I am unable to help by donating money, I donate my time.”
