“Always believe that there are many people who will help you.”
Ho Wa’s mother, Catherine, a passionate crafter and a firm believer in the healing power of handmade crafts. As a member of “Love Companion Program”, Catherine visits Kwun Tong House every month to participate in the breakfast gathering, where she leads workshops for ill children and their families. From preserved flower decorations to beaded bracelets, phone holders, and resin coasters with dried flowers, her creative workshops add vibrant colors and joy to the lives of families staying at Ronald McDonald House Charities Hong Kong (RMHC HK).
A Warm Encounter at the “Home Away from Home”
Ho Wa and Catherine’s connection with Hong Kong Ronald McDonald House began in 2018. At that time, Hugo was experiencing bone pain and fever. After seeking medical attention at the hospital, he was diagnosed with leukemia. The chemotherapy treatments and medications took a toll on his emotions, often leading to angry outbursts. “He would cry and yell in the hospital, saying, ‘Who brought me here?’” Catherine recalls.
Living in Fanling, the family faced daily commutes to Prince of Wales Hospital in Sha Tin for treatments. Upon referral by a medical social worker, they decided to stay at Sha Tin House, which was just a 10-minute drive from the hospital—offering much-needed convenience.
Beyond proximity, the open-plan structure of the Sha Tin House fostered meaningful connections among families. Children freely played on the wooden staircases while parents relaxed in the communal areas, sharing stories and supporting one another. “There were large tables on the second floor that we often pushed together to play board games. It was such a cheerful atmosphere!” Catherine says with a smile. She fondly describes Ronald McDonald House as a “pit stop for recharging,” providing not only a comfortable environment but also an array of activities for children to unwind and for families to connect and support each other.
A Relay of Love
After Ho Wa’s recovery, the family continued their bond with RMHC HK through the Love Companion Program.
Ho Wa, who took golf lessons in school, became a volunteer at RMHC HK’s annual Charity Golf Tournament, serving as the ceremonial opening player for several years. He also contributed by selling charity raffle tickets to help raise funds for the House.
Catherine, on the other hand, discovered her calling during one of the breakfast sessions. Learning that children at the House longed for sushi, Catherine—being a former caregiver herself—understood the dietary restrictions of young patients, such as avoiding raw food and carefully controlling seasonings. She eagerly accepted the challenge to teach parents how to prepare sushi suitable for their children. Since then, Catherine has become a regular instructor, hosting craft workshops and connecting with families through hands-on activities.
With her background as an art teacher, Catherine brings unique and engaging ideas to each workshop. She collaborates with staff to design lesson plans and source materials, often personally delivering supplies to the House. “The projects must be challenging yet produce refined results, suitable for participants of all ages,” she says. Her workshops have become a monthly highlight for children and a rare moment of relaxation for parents.
As someone who has walked this path, Catherine empathizes with the struggles of parents coming to terms with their child’s illness. She hopes that crafting can not only pass the time but also provide a therapeutic outlet to ease their burdens and slowly bring peace to their hearts.
Creativity: The Best Medicine for the Soul
Catherine’s experience as a Love Companion has inspired her to embrace life and her love for crafting even more. She vividly recalls a workshop where families made heat-shrink keychains by drawing designs on shrinkable plastic, which were then heated to create small, vibrant charms. “I was amazed at how colorful and imaginative the children’s inner worlds were,” she says. The beautifully crafted keychains were not only a source of pride but also a meaningful gift for the children themselves. “Life should always have a sense of ritual” Catherine firmly believes.
Spreading Warmth to More Families
To families currently battling illness, Catherine shares this piece of encouragement: “Always believe that there are many people who will help you.” She continues to brainstorm new crafting ideas and is determined to spread this joy to more families at RMHC HK. Looking ahead, Catherine hopes to explore even more forms of volunteer work, transforming the kindness she once received into meaningful actions that bring love and light to others.
