Winnie Su, Author at Goody Feed

Brave Mother Honours Daughter's Memory in Beauty Pageant Following Tragic Loss In Nov 2022, 40-year-old professional beautician Yan Qiaoling (transliterated from Chinese), who has been dedicated to the beauty industry for two decades, faced the heart-wrenching decision to turn off the ventilator for her 8-year-old daughter. This act marked the final farewell to her daughter, a moment filled with profound sorrow and acceptance. The journey leading to this tragic end began in Nov 2021, when her then seven-year-old daughter, Fu Shiqing, developed unexplained bruises. A thorough hospital examination revealed a grave diagnosis: her daughter's bone marrow was failing to produce platelets normally. This rare disease urgently required a bone marrow transplant. Yan, a devoted mother of three, had previously balanced her demanding career with family life, relying on her husband to primarily care for the children. However, faced with her daughter's illness, Yan significantly reduced her workload to provide unwavering support and care for Shiqing. During an interview with Lianhe Zaobao, Yan reflected on how her daughter's health had always been robust, with no family history of genetic diseases. The sudden severity of her condition was unthinkable. Shiqing's treatment regimen was intense and frequent, involving weekly platelet transfusions, a strict medication schedule including 12 different types morning and evening, and insulin administration. Image: Lianhe Zaobao Despite her young age, Shiqing demonstrated remarkable strength and compliance, obediently undergoing her treatments, which included chemotherapy and electrotherapy. Her family, ever loving and supportive, facilitated a bone marrow transplant from her father. This monumental effort kindled hope for Shiqing's recovery, a hope that seemed to be becoming a reality. However, life is unpredictable and often presents unexpected challenges. In late September of the same year, Shiqing's condition deteriorated rapidly, leading to kidney and lung failure and the need for machine-assisted breathing. A year into her battle with the disease, the doctors advised Yan and her husband to consider the painful option of turning off the ventilator. After witnessing their daughter's increasing distress, they made the agonizing decision to let her go. On 2 Nov, 2022, Shiqing passed away. Shiqing's death was a devastating blow to Yan, who came to a profound realization: no amount of wealth can replace family bonds and the preciousness of life. Now, Yan has chosen to work part-time, dedicating more time to cherish moments with her other two children as they grow. Shiqing's love for beauty, singing, and dancing continues to live on in her family's memories. To honour her spirit and share her story, Yan decided to participate in the 'Miss Chinese Singapore 2023' beauty pageant, an opportunity introduced by a friend. Yan's participation wasn't about winning; it was a tribute to her daughter's passion for performing and a way to fulfill her unachieved dreams. The true beauty in this story is not only found in Shiqing's courageous heart as she bravely fought her illness, but also in Yan's deep, unbreakable love for her children. Their story is a testament to the enduring power of love - which requires time spent together, and a good work-life balance before it's too late.