KUCHING (Oct 17): Hope Place Kuching is providing basic food aid to a 65-year-old woman diagnosed with schizophrenia and living alone in a small hut at Kampung Sui.
The woman, identified as Chai Lee Sze, was diagnosed with cluster B personality traits after undergoing surgery for a gastric condition two years ago.
"It is unclear when Chai first developed her mental illness -- whether from a young age or later in life -- but since her surgery, her health has deteriorated rapidly," Hope Place said in a statement yesterday.
On top of her mental health condition, Chai also suffers from diabetes and kidney problems, and currently depends on a stoma bag.
According to the charity, Chai had lived independently and worked at a coffee shop.
Due to her worsening condition, her brother built her a small hut near their parents' home.
The modest dwelling consists of a single room with a sleeping area, a small kitchen, and a bathroom. Chai's brother visits occasionally to deliver cooked food.
"Despite her condition, Chai remains remarkably independent. Most days, she cooks for herself and washes her own clothes.
"We are amazed at how neat and tidy her little home is," Hope Place said.
Chai currently receives a monthly welfare aid of RM500 from the Social Welfare Department.
Hope Place hopes to continue assisting Chai and more needy individuals, and welcomes all donations from the public. All contributions are eligible for receipts upon request.
Donors may channel funds to its Maybank account 511289001160 or by scanning the S Pay Global QR code on its Facebook page.