Ann’s something really special
Much needed aid: Sister Jeba (left) and Tan (second left) receiving an RM11,000 mock cheque from Chong (right).
KUALA LUMPUR: Abandoned by her parents when she was three months old, Ann Tan Swee Lin was adopted by a social worker when she was four.
A special needs child with autism, Ann who is now 23, inspired her guardian Gebamani Pakiathaiin (fondly known as Sister Jeba) to open a home for single mothers and their children called Ann's Cottage in 2002.
"I saw something special in Ann and grew to love her as my own daughter.
"Some asked me why I took in a special needs child, but I believe we have to value and respect all life," said Sister Jeba, adding that adopting Ann made her want to help other children.
Ann's Cottage in Bandar Country Homes, Rawang, now has 20 mothers and children.
The home was initially set up for special needs children but Sister Jeba later realised that a lot of single mothers also needed help and shelter.
Touched by the plight of both Tan and Sister Jeba, MCA Public Services and Complaints managed to raise RM11,000 for the home in conjunction with the Christmas Day celebration by the department yesterday.
The department's head Datuk Seri Michael Chong had helped Sister Jeba get a birth certificate for Ann in 1996.
Those who wish to donate can send cheques with "Ann's Cottage" written on the reverse side.
The address is MCA Public Services & Complaints Department, 7th Floor Wisma MCA, 163 Jalan Ampang, 50450 Kuala Lumpur.
-The Star-
Read More @ SourceMore » Bonology.com | Pakatan Rakyat (PR) | Sociopolitics Plus | 大马社会政治
Comments