This true story began in 2014 on the last day of Daphne's diploma course in Singapore Polytechnic. Thinking that the best time of her life was about to begin at 21 years old, a twist of events plunged her into years of pain and despair. Follow Daphn...
Just two years ago, I was still working on my final year project at Singapore Polytechnic. Who would have thought that I would spend the next two years on a quest to get a kidney transplant, and only return to normalcy now?
It was time to get back into the real world. I couldn't help but wonder how my former polytechnic course mates were doing. Curious, I logged into Facebook and searched their names.
Queenie's profile cover showed a photo of her, Sheena, and Ivy standing in front of some Victorian buildings. They had fulfilled their promise to meet in the UK during last year's holidays and looked genuinely happy - without me.
For some strange reason, I felt no jealousy, resentment or FOMO (fear of missing out). I was no longer tormented by comparisons to these girls who seemed to be doing better back then. With my physical health healed, I now had a fair opportunity to create the life I wanted.
With this chapter finally closed, I was ready to move on.
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To celebrate the new year, my brother Darroch and I headed to E-Sarn Thai Cuisine restaurant. The quiet atmosphere and empty tables created a peaceful sanctuary, ideal for sharing secrets and dreams.
"So what are your plans for the future?" Darroch started the lunch conversation.
My mind went blank. The thought of pursuing a design degree scared me, thanks to daunting tight deadlines and harsh critiques. My portfolio was hardly impressive - a collection of amateurish school projects that barely scraped by with a 3.5 grade-point average. Besides, I had less than S$3000 in my bank account, barely enough to pay for a degree.
"I'll probably get an administrative job first and see how after two years," I replied with a hint of resignation. In Singapore's competitive job market, admin roles were often seen as the last resort as they weren't highly paid or respected. However, the duties don't require specialised skills.
"If you're financially tight, I've set aside S$5,000 to help you pay for your medical fees. I'll accompany you to apply for another bank card later." Darroch offered kindly. He was truly my pillar of support.
After eighteen months of battle with kidney failure, I thought I'd earned a break from life's crises. Instead, I was already stuck in a mid-life crisis now, with no finances or passion to guide me.
On our way home, we stumbled upon a quote on a shopfront that God had seemingly planted there to resonate with my soul:
Whenever you find yourself doubting how far you can go, just remember how far you have come. Remember everything you have faced, all the battles you have won, and all the fears you have overcome.
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