Danie Afiq Bin Salimuka is a recipient of the Singapore Cancer Society (SCS) Education Financial Assistance Scheme.

Danie’s mother, Mdm Afizah, is a SCS beneficiary, who was diagnosed with stage 4 colorectal and liver cancer in 2017.

He recollects the time when he found out about his mother’s diagnosis. “I was in shock and my mind went blank. Somehow I managed to tell her to be strong. We always saw our mother as someone who is strong. She proved us right in the fight against cancer. Seeing her pull through, I felt more motivated to do her proud,” said Danie.

His mother’s condition also increased their financial burden. Mdm Afizah was already unemployed due to other medical conditions and as such, Danie’s father was the family’s sole breadwinner. With the hospital bills accumulating, it was hard making ends meet.
The SCS Education Financial Assistance Scheme provides school allowance grants and bursaries to alleviate the financial burden of school-going children and youths whose families are impacted by cancer.

He said, “I am grateful for the $150 monthly allowance that the scheme provides. It helps with my pocket money for food and transport. This at least takes the burden off my parents.”

His message to other youths whose families have been impacted by cancer is to stay strong and not lose hope.